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When Garth Brooks released "The Dance" in 1990, few could have predicted the lasting impact the song would have on country music or on Brooks', 64, career.

On July 14, 1990, "The Dance" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, becoming Brooks' third chart-topping hit and cementing what many fans still consider his signature song.

Written by songwriter Tony Arata, "The Dance" appeared on Brooks' self-titled debut album and quickly stood out for its emotional lyrics about love, loss and embracing life's journey despite heartbreak. While many listeners interpreted the song as a love ballad, Brooks has often said its message is much broader.

"I've always felt 'The Dance' was about life," Brooks said in past interviews, explaining that the song's meaning extends beyond romance to include taking risks, pursuing dreams and accepting that pain is often inseparable from life's greatest moments.

The song's unforgettable chorus—

"I could have missed the pain, but I'd have had to miss the dance."

—has resonated with generations of listeners and has been used to mark everything from weddings and graduations to memorial services.

Over the years, Brooks has repeatedly described "The Dance" as one of the most important recordings of his career. In the 2019Garth Brooks: The Road I'm On documentary, he called it the defining song of his catalog and said that if he were remembered for only one recording, he hoped it would be "The Dance."

The ballad has also earned widespread critical acclaim. In 2016, Rolling Stone ranked it among the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time, praising its emotional depth and lasting influence.

RELATED: Before Solo Stardom, Kenny Rogers Made a Career-Changing Decision

Perhaps no other actor sports a filmography as illustrious as that of the incomparable Harry Dean Stanton. An actor that you surely have seen before yet may not know his name, he is one of the most underappreciated and unsung actors in all of cinema. Having collaborated with some of the greatest filmmakers of all time including directors like David Lynch, Ridley Scott, John Carpenter, Wim Wenders, and Martin Scorsese, he's an actor who quietly worked his way into the fabric of film history with a breadth of humanity many couldn't understand.

Stanton passed away in 2017 at the age of 91, and with him one of the greatest careers in Hollywood was gone. He was someone who up until recently I wasn't super conscious of. Little did I know, I had grown up with him. My first film I would have seen him in is the fantastic animated filmRango when I was about 5 or 6 years old, and throughout my childhood I would see him in films like The Avengers and Alien. That leads me to today where he is an integral part of some of my favorite stories ever.

In honor of 100 years of Harry Dean Stanton, I'll walk you through three of my favorite performances from him that I think are essential viewing.

Paris, Texas (1984)

Stanton's most acclaimed role is from the emotional masterpiece Paris, Texas. I find that this film really captures the essence of what Stanton does so well. He's a very reserved, textural performer. His story and his thoughts are written in the lines in his face. In the words he doesn't say. When he does speak, there is such a gravity to it, and such truth in the words.

The film follows Stanton's character Travis, who reappears after being missing for four years to reunite with his son, and try and find where the boy's mother has gone. It's a deeply human story about regret, family, loneliness, and love that is one of my absolute favorite films ever. As it happens, the film is available in its entirety for free on YouTube. It features Stanton's best work, one of the greatest scores of all time courtesy of Ry Cooder, and is a film I think everyone should see once in their life.

Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me (1993) and Twin Peaks: The Return (2017) David Lynch and Harry Dean Stanton.

Kevin Winter / Getty Images

It's hard to touch on the impact that Stanton has on Twin Peaks without spoiling the entire franchise. I don't exaggerate when I say it may be the greatest work of art ever conceived, and I wouldn't want to ruin the experience of watching it in its entirety for the first time.

Stanton gives a warmth and kindness to the story, specifically during The Return that I think is desperately necessary to both the thesis of the show, as well as the experience of watching it. Twin Peaks is a harrowing, heartbreaking, and insurmountable experience that can be a lot sometimes. Stanton is a respite from the cosmic evil that permeates every fibre of the show.

Lucky (2017)

I'm a massive fan of the film Lucky. It follows Stanton as this 90 year old loner coming to terms with his age and mortality after he takes a fall out of nowhere. It's a deeply spiritual meditation on life, meaning, and aging that oozes with a love and earnestness that really affected me emotionally.

The film's legacy is painted by the fact that Stanton passed a few months after it released. The film serves as a swansong to his career, and may be the best way he could have gone out. It's a story that is clearly deeply personal to him in the way he carries his performance, and it captures everything there is to love about him as a performer.

I wish Harry Dean Stanton could be hear to celebrate his centennial. He was a remarkable actor who hasn't received nearly enough recognition. Happy birthday, Harry. We miss you a ton.

Related: I Saw 19 Films at Tribeca 2026 — These Are the Ones You'll Be Talking About

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The music charts are constantly filling up with new releases from both new and old artists in the industry. But sometimes, old hits come back around into popularity, surging up the charts, or something puts a new spotlight on past music, like a movie soundtrack or cover performance.

But in the case of one legendary 1990s band, they've stuck around on the Billboard Artists 100 chart for years, despite the fact that the band broke up more than three decades ago. The band in question is Nirvana, and if you're familiar with them, it's likely not a big surprise to learn that their music is still popular.

Nirvana disbanded in 1994 after the death of lead singer Kurt Cobain, but they produced plenty of hits and made a huge impact on the rock music industry during the band's short-lived life. Now, in 2026, the band is still holding a high spot on the Billboard Artists 100 chart, which depicts the top trending artists in the U.S. at the moment.

The iconic group, which included Cobain, Dave Grohl, and Krist Novoselic, currently holds the 49th spot on the chart. Nirvana has been featured on the chart for a total of 317 weeks, which adds up to just over 6 years, and they've peaked at No. 20.

Related: ’80s Rock Icon Forced Off Stage Mid-Tour by Health Scare as Son Fills In

In the current edition of the chart, Nirvana sits higher than other rock bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Creedence Clearwater Revival, the Eagles, AC/DC, and more. But it's even more impressive considering Nirvana hasn't made new music since 1994. The final song the band recorded together in 1994 before Cobain's death, "You Know You're Right," was finally released years later, in 2002.

Nirvana is most well-known for their hit song "Smells Like Teen Spirit," which was released in 1991 as the lead single on the band's second album, Nevermind.

While Nirvana was nominated for several Grammy Awards before their disbandment, the band won its one and only Grammy (aside from an honorary Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023) in 1996, two years after the band's conclusion. The group won the award for Best Alternative Music Performance for the live album MTV Unplugged in New York, which was released in late 1994.

Related: '70s Rock Legend Performs at Unexpected Venue Months After Brain Surgery

Fans are getting a glance behind the Married at First Sight curtain. 

The reality show follows couples who agree to legally marry a stranger. The series uses specialists, such as spiritualists, relationship coaches, and sociologists, to pair couples together. After the matchmaking is done, the show documents the newlyweds and asks them if they want to stay together after several weeks. 

ChrisCoelen, an executive producer for Married at First Sight, told Varietyabout some insight and updates viewers should know. 

One of the biggest changes in the show’s 20 seasons is that, instead of three or four experts, there will now only be two. 

“Every season, it’s an ongoing conversation about what’s working, what’s not working, and I think our experts have worked for a really long time. I just think the opportunity came across to look at two really exciting new experts,” Coelen explained. 

Adding, “It felt a little less crowded and more focused, in terms of the ability for the experts to really develop a relationship with the participants in a different way.”

This season takes place in Seattle with participants who are slightly older. The hope is that these couples are in a better place to tie the knot. 

I think it depends, partly, on the place,” the EP said. “Different people are ready at different ages for a big commitment and the group of people that we have in this iteration felt like the right age that they were serious about marriage as a as a next step in their lives.”

Married at First Sight will feature a reality TV alum. NickUhlenhuth is looking for love this time, but has previously been on The Circle and Perfect Match.

Coelen was apprehensive about having him on the show, fearful that he wasn’t there for the right reasons. He was glad to be proven wrong after seeing Uhlenhuth’s connection with partner CourteneyLandis. 

“When you look at how he and Courteney align, it has nothing to do with any of that. The way that they match up across so many different qualities is really ideal,” Coelen said. “I don’t even know that we originally went out thinking, ‘Let’s find somebody from another show.’ Those are things that we all talk about, but I think getting to know his family, getting to see the relationship role models around him and the way they talked about him, all of that added up to feeling like he was a really good choice.”

Season 20 of Married at First Sight is now streaming on Peacock. 

Mackenzie "Kenzie" Annis made her love for dancing known throughout Love Island USASeason 8. She practiced her splits every day and did them when she was mad or happy.

Some fans wondered if she would do Dancing with the Stars next. She already interacted with one of the professional dancers after leaving the villa!

Ezra Sosa Told Kenzie Annis She Could Win 'Dancing with the Stars' Ezra Sosa

Disney/Andrew Eccles

Kenzie made a TikTok walking down a street with Dylan Wrona lip syncing to a pop song on July 13. "The mirrorball is CALLING your name," Dancing with the Stars professional dancer Ezra Sosa commented.

"SHUT THE FRONT DOOR," Kenzie replied. An islander hasn't appeared on the competition show, but she could be the first.

Kenzie and Dylan were cut out of the top four couples. They met in Casa Amor and she stopped exploring other connections after she kissed Gal Tshnieder. The new couple met each other's parents on family day and got their support.

Related: Why Some ‘Love Island USA’ Producers Call Themselves ‘The Manipulators’

Aftersun revealed that Kenzie and Dylan slept in the same room after they were dumped. They didn't sleep until five in the morning to talk. Dylan said they are exclusive.

"I think she wants me to officially ask her," he said and she agreed. "Which will happen when we get to the outside world. I mean, as of now, we're not even living in the same area."

The dancer is from Georgia and he lives in Los Angeles. She introduced her father to the model over FaceTime, and he was supportive.

Which Celebrities Watch 'Love Island USA' Season 8? Mackenzie "Kenzie" Brooke Annis on 'Love Island USA'

Kim Nunneley/Peacock

Sosa, 25, is hardly the only famous person to watch this season. Kevin McHale from Glee is friends with Bryce Dettloff and encouraged his Instagram followers to vote for him to win.

Season 8's finale had the finalists watch important moments from their time in villa on a big screen. It ended with a series of video messages from celebrities.

"What's up, islanders? You did it big," Lizzo said. "You ate this season up. You've inspired us so much to love. I hope you're ready to get out of that villa 'cause your whole life is about to change."

"Ya'll made this summer so much fun and I know I was locked in for every second," Demi Lovatosaid. "Sending you all so much love and enjoy those french fries tonight."

Related: ‘Love Island USA’: Gabriel Reveals if He’ll Date Beatriz Outside the Villa

Alex Warren said he watched the show before his performances. He also showed that he was eating french fries.

"Thanks for entertaining us all and most importantly bringing it back to love," Ciara said. "Cici loves ya'll."

Jordin Sparks, Sombr, and Ke$ha appeared and thanked the show for using their music. Druski joked about going to the reunion to find love.

The season's reunion will premiere on Peacock on Monday, August 31 at 9 p.m. ET. Madix andAndy Cohenwill host.

Related: Alannah Keyser of ‘Love Island USA’ Speaks Out After Exit for Racial Slur Video

Joe Melson, the singer-songwriter behind some of rock’s greatest operatic ballads and the musician widely credited with helping create the Roy Orbison sound, has died.

He was 91 years old.

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The news was posted on Facebook by Melson’s son-in-law, who introduced the announcement.

View this post on Instagram

“It is with profound sadness that I must inform you that my father-in-law, Joe Melson, has passed on to write better songs (if that can be done),” Melson’s son-in-law wrote in the post. “Mr. Melson left by natural causes at the age of 91 on July 1st with family close by.”

Best known for his legendary songwriting partnership with Roy Orbison, Melson wrote more than 120 songs, including iconic hits “Only the Lonely,” “Crying,” and “Blue Bayou.” No stranger to the song charts, “Only the Lonely” hit No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and launched Orbison into superstardom. In addition, “Running Scared,” co-written by Melson, marked the dream team’s first No. 1 hit.

As a solo singer, Melson found modest success with Acuff-Rose Music and Hickory Records, per Saving Country Music. Beyond Orbison, Melson’s music included “Run, Baby Run (Back Into My Arms)” for the Newbeats and tracks for Glenn Barber and Don Folger.

A BMI Award winner, Melson enjoyed the peak of his career from 1959 to 1963. During that period, several of his best-known songs—including “Only the Lonely” and “Crying”—were released, and later recognized among Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, as well as inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Melson helped pioneer the dramatic rock ballad by blending rockabilly, country, and soaring operatic pop. In 2018, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

“This tremendous man has left the same tremendous hole with Raindrops, Raining in our Hearts,” the post continued. “Thank you all for your kindness to Joe throughout his over 75-year career. He was still writing up until Father’s Day this year. What a passion for his craft.”

Orbison’s estate also paid tribute to Melson on Facebook.

The statement read in full:

“In 1959, a young songwriter named Joe Melson tapped on the window of Roy’s car in West Texas. Roy was sitting there, guitar in hand, working out a melody the way he often did. That knock on the glass changed everything.

“Joe heard something in Roy—a voice built for heartbreak, for the operatic, for songs that didn’t just tell a story but ached,” the post continued. “What followed was one of the great songwriting partnerships in American music.

“Joe was rightfully inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2018, a long-overdue recognition for a man some called the most unsung hero in songwriting,” the post continued. “But to our family, he was something simpler and dearer: the friend who saw what was possible in Roy before the rest of the world did, and who never stopped being proud of what they built together.

“We send our love to Joe’s family, and our deepest gratitude for a partnership that gave the world ‘the Roy Orbison sound,’” the post concluded. “Rest easy, Joe. Thank you for hearing it first.”

Orbison died in December 1988 at the age of 52 from a heart attack.

Related: 1968 Classic, Rock’s First Top 40 Heavy Metal Song, Became a Generational Anthem

The cause of former child actor Blake Garrett's death has been revealed, nearly six months later. Us Weekly reported on Monday, July 13, that Garrett, 33, died from acute fentanyl toxicity. His death was officially ruled accidental.

The news of Garrett's death was shared by his family on Feb. 9. His mother, Carol Permenter Garrett, confirmed his death to TMZ, sharing that her son had visited a Tulsa emergency room just a week before he passed away.

Garrett was experiencing "intense pain" and was later diagnosed with shingles, Carol told the outlet. She also revealed that Garrett had relocated to Tulsa specifically to focus on his sobriety, adding that she believed he had "truly turned things around."

Born on Sept. 14, 1992, Garrett's path to Hollywood started young. He got his start in local stage productions, including Aladdin and His Magical Lamp and Peanuts: A Charlie Brown Tribute, before landing a spot in the touring cast of Barney's Colorful World International Tour. According to IMDb, his on-screen debut was in 2004, when he appeared at age 11 in the straight-to-VHS release Barney's Colorful World, Live!

Blake Garrett during "How To Eat Fried Worms" - Red Carpet Celebrity Event at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.

(Photo by Bruce Gifford/FilmMagic)

Two years later, Garrett booked his first and only feature film role in How to Eat Fried Worms, playing Plug, a sidekick to classroom bully Joe, played by Adam Hicks. The cast also included Luke Benward, Hallie Kate Eisenberg, Kimberly Williams-Paisley and Tom Cavanagh.

His performance earned him a 2007 Young Artist Award, and the film's entire cast took home the Best Young Ensemble in a Feature Film prize that same year, as per Page Six.

Following the film's success, Garrett returned home to Edmond, Okla., where he finished school at Summit Middle School.

His family shared a loving note in his obituary and revealed that after stepping away from the spotlight, "he enrolled in Bethel Schools, where he found immense joy in participating in football. He loved the camaraderie and shared experiences with his fellow football players and held a deep affection for this period of his life and cherishes the memories it created."

A memorial service for Garrett was held at Resthaven Funeral Home in Shawnee, Okla., on Feb. 16, 2026.

Rick Wakeman, who first gained fame for his work in the legendary progressive rock band Yes starting in the early 1970s, is officially returning to the stage in 2027 after having to cancel his last tour because of a health scare. But first, Wakeman is back after months in an unexpected place: a European river cruise.

Wakeman is currently performing on the Basel to Amsterdam leg of the Trading Boundaries Voyage cruise down the Rhine River. The trip started on July 11 in Basel, Switzerland, and concludes in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, on July 18.

Alongside the former Yes keyboardist, other music legends will also be performing, including former Jethro Tull guitarist Martin Barre and the rock band Caravan. A second cruise will take place between July 18 and July 25, sailing back to Basel.

For fans unable to grab tickets to the river cruise experience, there's no need to worry, as Wakeman announced a brand-new tour earlier this year. The 77-year-old music icon shared the exciting news with fans, revealing that he and his band, the English Rock Ensemble, will be embarking on an extensive tour throughout the United Kingdom next February and March.

It will officially be their longest U.K. tour yet, with Wakeman calling it The Wizard Of Prog - Ultimate Highlights Concert Tour. The first show will be on Feb. 17 in Brighton, England.

View this post on Instagram

There will be concerts every day or every other day until the final stop of the tour on March 12 in Leicester, England. Wakeman later added an extra date on March 9 in Reading due to demand, making the tour 19 shows in total.

Related: ’80s Rock Icon Simon Gallup Forced Off Stage Mid-Tour by Health Scare as Son Fills In

Wakeman's new performances, both those on the river cruise and the shows scheduled for early next year, are major moves for the musician, as he underwent corrective shunt brain surgery in November 2025.

He was forced to postpone his U.S. tour to early 2026 in order to focus on his health, but as far as fans can tell, Wakeman has been doing great after recovering from the surgery. Fans are especially hyped up about the chance to see him on his milestone U.K. tour next year.

Related: ’00s Rock Band Returns With New Track 11 Years After Last Album

Season 8 of TV's buzziest reality show is finally in the books, with Trinity Tatum and Bryce Dettloff crowned its winners during last night's finale.

The pair, who came to be known as "Brinity," had been coupled since day 1 of the season and since took home $100,000 to split between them.

As devoted fans are aware, the series is filmed at the picturesque Mamanuca Islands of Fiji, which can inspire one to start planning their own tropical getaway.

In fact, that's just what fans are doing, according to new data from Priceline. The city of Nadi, which is Fiji's main international getaway (and located roughly 11-35 miles away from the Mamanuca Islands) is seeing a notable increase in traveler interest for August, according to the online travel agency. More specifically:

• Flight searches to Nadi, Fiji are up 82% based on the biggest year-over-year increases in international roundtrip flight searches for August 1–31.
• Hotel searches in Nadi, Fiji are up 35% based on the biggest year-over-year increases in international hotel searches for August 1–31.

“As Love Island reaches its finale, it’s a timely example of how pop culture can shape travel inspiration," Christina Bennett, consumer travel trends expert at Priceline, said in a statement shared with Parade. "After weeks of watching Fiji’s beaches, resorts and scenery, viewers may begin imagining a trip of their own... By giving audiences an immersive look at a destination, shows like Love Island can inspire travelers to start exploring how to experience it for themselves.”

Meanwhile, fans are eager for more Love Island USA — and luckily, there will be a season 8 reunion. Host Ariana Madix announced it when the finale came to an end on Sunday, July 12. As the reunion has not been filmed yet, there is no official announcement of which cast members will return. Let the waiting begin...

Fifty-five years ago, iconic Southern rock group The Allman Brothers Band released "Midnight Rider"—a road trip staple that resurged over three decades later.

"Midnight Rider" was released as a single on March 26, 1971 after appearing as a track on the band's second studio album, Idlewild South. The track was pushed as a promotional single by Capricorn Records, catching listeners' attention on radio stations and quickly becoming a fan favorite.

Although the original rendition never entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart on its own, lead vocalist Gregg Allman's version did. In 1973, Gregg recorded a cover of the song for his debut solo album, Laid Back, taking it all the way to the No. 19 spot on the mainstream chart and selling over 700,000 copies.

Duane Allman chats with his brother Gregg Allman backstage before the Allman Brothers' performance at the Sitar on October 17, 1970 in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Co-written by Gregg and Robert Kim Payne, "Midnight Rider" is a quintessential road trip anthem. The song tells the story of an outlaw on the run from the law. It focuses on themes of leaving the past behind and freedom, crafting lyrics that, when paired with its driving Southern rock sound, are made to be screamed with the windows down.

The Resurgence of "Midnight Rider"

Thirty-three years after its initial release, the track experienced a second wave of popularity. Gregg's solo cover was featured in the 2004 action movieWalking Tall during the opening credits, setting the tone for the film's Southern aesthetic. Its iconic placement paired with the film's box office success reignited public fascination with the song, introducing the classic track to a brand-new generation of moviegoers and rock fans.

"Midnight Rider" has continued to persevere among modern audiences, finding success in the digital era. On Spotify alone, the original rendition of the song has garnered over 360 million streams—even more than Gregg's solo version secured. This digital milestone cements the track's status as a timeless masterpiece that continues to soundtrack highway drives.

Related: 1975 Rock Classic, Featured in a Jukebox, Was a No. 1 Hit 51 Years Ago Today

On April 7, Cats: The Jellicle Ball made its debut on Broadway. The show, a musical revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats (1981), was received with positive reviews from fans and critics, scoring nine Tony Award nominations. However, it will soon be making its final bow.

Cats: The Jellicle Ball will make its final performance at the Broadhurst Theatre in New York City on Aug. 8. Starring André de Shields as Old Deuteronomy, the show reimagines Webber’s classic musical. Instead of cats in a junkyard, the show finds the cast portraying members of competing houses in an underground LGBTQ+ ballroom scene.

“Three years ago, Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch began the remarkable process of reimagining Cats for a new generation. They assembled a visionary creative team that fused their passions for Ballroom and theatre to create something thrillingly new," Michael Harrison and Mike Bosner said in a statement obtained by Parade. "With a truly superhuman cast bringing this vision to life, New York has once again discovered the phenomenon that has become Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats: The Jellicle Ball.”

Harrison and Bosner continued, “The joy that radiates from the stage each night is unlike anything we’ve experienced in our careers. It has been a true honor to help bring Ballroom to Broadway."

Since the show previously premiered at Off-Broadway’s Perelman Performing Arts Center, fans quickly took to Playbill’s Instagram to suggest that the show return there.

“Ok, if there is any show we need to rally behind to try to save it from closing, it’s this one,” one user commented.

Cats: The Jellicle Ball won three of the nine Tony Awards it was nominated for this year. The production won for Best Choreography, Best Direction of a Musical, and Costume Design of a Musical. New York Theatre Guide said that the new take on the musical “imbues the show with care, pathos, drama, starlight, and explosive jubilation.”

Tickets for Cats: The Jellicle Ball are on sale now through Aug. 8 via Broadway.com.

In 1970, actor and musician Kris Kristofferson wrote the ballad "Help Me Make It Through the Night" after being inspired by a Frank Sinatra quote. Speaking to Esquire magazine, Sinatra was asked what he believed in. He answered with, "Booze, broads, or a bible ... whatever helps me make it through the night."

Kristofferson originally offered "Help Me Make It Through the Night" to singer Dottie West, with whom he was staying at the time. However, she initially felt it was "too suggestive" for her. Kristofferson ended up putting the track on his debut album, Kristofferson.

West would eventually record a version for her album, Careless Hands. She later said declining the song when initially offered was one of her "greatest regrets" pertaining to her career.

In May of 1970, Sammi Smith recorded a version that went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. Smith's version was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.

"Help Me Make It Through the Night" is one of the most often covered songs in country music. Other notable artists who have covered "Help Me Make It Through the Night" include:

• Tammy Wynette
• Johnny Cash
• Elvis Presley
• Michal Bublé
• Loren Allred
• Gladys Knight & the Pips
• Willie Nelson

While Kristofferson is responsible for the song as the creator and songwriter, Smith's recording remains the most commercially and critically successful. On top of the Grammy notoriety, in 2024, Rolling Stone ranked her version at No. 71 on its 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time list. Her version of "Help Me Make It Through the Night" is one of the most successful country singles of all time in terms of sales, popularity, and radio play. Additionally, her cover topped the country singles chart and was also a crossover hit in terms of genre, reaching No. 8 on the U.S. pop singles chart. 

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Related: 1973 Country Classic, Covered Hundreds of Times, Considered ‘One of the Greatest Songs of All Time’

In a recent sit-down interview with the Happy, Sad, Confused Podcast, Moana live-action songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda revealed he almost played a pivotal bad guy for Kevin Feige in a Marvel Studios release right after ending his Broadway run on his Tony Award-winning musical Hamilton.

The multi-hyphenate creative was just getting his streak started at the time, having already worked on the animated Moana during his Alexander Hamilton-starring era, and his invite into the Disney Studios family very nearly came with major MCU cred.

Marvel Studios head Feige personally reached out to him as his run on stage was coming to a close to offer him the villain role in Spider-Man: Homecoming. "[He} told me the entire plot over the phone. And I was like, 'Oh!'" he said of his real-time reaction toward the reveal that Vulture, the role he was offered, was the father of the girl Peter Parker (Tom Holland) had feelings for in the film, but would also serve as Spider-Man's nemesis in the 2017 film.

While Miranda got hyped for the chance to play in the superhero sandbox for Sony and Marvel, there was one key detail that cut the conversation short. Miranda explained, "I said, 'When does it shoot?'" and said that Feige answered, "The moment you step off stage in Hamilton," which was not ideal. He turned down the role, telling Marvel's head honcho, "I love these movies, but I would really like to stay married. So I cannot do this."

The role of Vulture, of course, ended up going to superhero veteran and favorite Batman, Michael Keaton—a casting that Miranda conceded was more fitting than his, sharing that he felt "that would have been terrible" had he done it. "I'm very glad because Michael Keaton was perfect; they found exactly who they needed," he geeked out, admitting, "I have no regrets. I needed a vacation so badly...and I think I would have been deeply miscast."

Watch the rest of the interview below:

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Functional cookware is a must in any kitchen, but the absolute best pieces elevate the look of your space as they prepare your food. If you're looking to add more personality to your kitchen without breaking the bank, Paris Hilton's Heart-Shaped Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven might just be the dash of whimsy you need. 

Shoppers can now snap up this "pretty" Amazon favorite for just $35, down from its regular $60. Reviewers have raved about the quality and charm it adds to their cooking routine, awarding it over 2,000 perfect five-star reviews.

Paris Hilton's Heart-Shaped Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, From $35 (was $60) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Available in both cream and pink in multiple sizes (1-quart, 2-quart, and 4-quart), this pot is as functional as it is adorable. The 4-quart option is perfect for everything from simmering a cozy stew to baking crusty artisan bread. Meanwhile, the 1-quart and 2-quart options are "perfect size for single ladies" or quick side dishes, according to buyers. 

With its glossy enamel finish and chic gold heart knob, it's the kind of piece that will draw compliments whether it's bubbling on the stove or sitting center stage on your dinner table. 

This Dutch oven is crafted from durable, enameled cast iron that delivers even heat distribution and excellent heat retention. That means you'll get perfectly cooked results every time, whether you're roasting, braising, baking, or slow-cooking. The smooth interior helps prevent sticking, and some shoppers recommended hand-washing it to keep that shine looking brand-new.

Paris Hilton's Heart-Shaped Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, From $35 (was $60) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

With a glowing 4.7-star rating overall, fans said this Dutch oven is a standout. Many highlighted how the heart shape makes even everyday meals feel special, turning weeknight dinners into something a little more memorable. Several shoppers also mentioned that it's a thoughtful gift for newlyweds, home cooks, or anyone who loves to host.

"Cute and great to use every day," One shopper called it “cute and great to use every day,” adding: "Love the size of this, and it shapes my sourdough into a heart, which is super cute. This is an easy-to-use and versatile product."

Beyond its standout looks, the Paris Hilton Heart-Shaped Dutch Oven is as versatile as they come. Use it as a braiser, sauté pan, roaster, or even a bread pot. It's oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and compatible with all stovetops, so you're not limited to just one cooking method. Multiple reviewers said Paris Hilton’s Dutch oven is just as heavy-duty and cooks just as well as luxury brands' versions that retail for hundreds of dollars.

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• Paris Hilton 2-Slice Wide Open Toaster, $35 (was $38) at Amazon
• Paris Hilton 6-Quart Air Fryer, $73 (was $100) at Amazon
• Paris Hilton Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set, $105 (was $141) at Amazon

Related: Shark's ChillPill Is the Coolest Summer Accessory for Celebs, and It's a Rare $30 Off on Amazon

Whether you're shopping for yourself or searching for a gift that's equal parts fun and functional, this $35 heart-shaped Dutch oven is sure to delight. Paris Hilton's kitchen collection brings a playful sense of luxury to everyday cooking and, right now, you don't have to spend a fortune to get in on the trend.

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While on his way to his temporary residence in Paris, Heated Rivalry star Hudson Williams had a tense encounter with what Variety is calling “autograph hounds.”

In a video that has since gone viral on social media, Williams steps out of a car while fans beg, “Please, Hudson.”

“Guys, you just followed me to my residence,” Williams said, grabbing the photos they were trying to get him to sign. “No, sorry. You can’t do this. This is really f—king weird, ok? You can’t f—king do this. This is f—king weird. You guys aren’t fans. You’re being really creepy, and you just followed me, ok? You don’t do this. You don’t do this.”

When Williams got offered a pen to sign the photos with, he threw it into the street. He tried to burn their photos with a lighter, but when it wouldn’t catch, he said, “I’m gonna burn this at home.”

“Now please, f—king leave,” Williams pleaded. “I want to watch you. Hop on your little bike.”

While some on YouTube have been calling Williams “arrogant” for this reaction, other fans quickly came to his defense.

“Whatever he did, he had every right to do it,” one user commented on Deuxmoi’s Instagram post. “If anything, he showed more restraint than most people would have. People who make a living invading others’ privacy have caused unimaginable harm before. The relentless pursuit of paparazzi played a role in the circumstances surrounding Princess Diana’s death. No matter what, we’re standing with Hudson.”

“Being a celebrity doesn’t erase your right to privacy,” a fan said. “Stop normalizing stalking and call it what it is.”

“Even when he's (rightfully) pissed off, he still manages to speak quietly and say 'thank you' and 'please,’” another noted. “Kudos [to] Hudson for standing on his own.”

This isn’t the first time Williams has clapped back at unkind fan interactions. In March, he said, “Don’t call yourself a fan if you share racist/homophobic/biphobic/misogynist/ageist/ableist/parasocial/bigoted comments of any kind. None of us need your hateful ‘love.’”

The full video of the interaction in Paris can be seen on Instagram.

Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too! Today’s NYT Mini Crossword covers a little bit of everything, from outer space and Argentina to wedding traditions, everyday expressions and a touch of Scottish culture.

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

So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Tuesday, July 14, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Tuesday, July 14, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: "Piece of cake!" — HINT: Starts with the letter "E"

5 Across: Piece of cake —HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

6 Across: Centers of stars — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

7 Across: Like a bar with free drinks — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"

8 Across: Word repeated during a mic check — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Run away to get married — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

2 Down: Buenos ___, Argentina — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

3 Down: Distinctive smell — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

4 Down: R.S.V.P. option — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

5 Down: Kilt wearer — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Tuesday, July 14, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: "Piece of cake!" — EASY

5 Across: Piece of cake —SLICE

6 Across: Centers of stars — CORES

7 Across: Like a bar with free drinks — OPEN

8 Across: Word repeated during a mic check — TEST

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Run away to get married — ELOPE

2 Down: Buenos ___, Argentina — AIRES

3 Down: Distinctive smell — SCENT

4 Down: R.S.V.P. option — YES

5 Down: Kilt wearer — SCOT

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Monday, July 13, 2026

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If you're anything like me, the bedroom is the last room that gets love. The living room gets the cute decor, the kitchen gets the gadgets, and the bedroom gets whatever furniture survived your twenties. Then one morning you're hunting for a clean shirt, digging through overstuffed drawers, and it hits you. This space doesn't feel like you anymore.

That's usually the moment I know it's time for a reset. Not a full remodel, not a huge budget blowout. Just one intentional upgrade that changes how the whole room works. In the bedroom, that upgrade is almost always the dresser. When you think about it, it's the silent workhorse of your daily routine. Clothes, linens, accessories, all funneled through one piece of furniture. If it's small, flimsy, or just dated, you feel that frustration every single day.

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Member's Mark Holden Dresser, $799.00 at Sam's Club

Sam's Club

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A modern dresser like this Member's Mark Holden Dresser should do three things really well. Give you serious storage capacity, look clean and elevated, and hold up to real life. Kids, pets, and the chaos of busy mornings. I look for deep drawers, solid hardware, and a finish that plays nicely with what you already own, whether that's a grey upholstered bed or a simple wood frame. Neutral tones and simple lines age better than trendy statement pieces, and they make it easier to swap out decor without having to replace large furniture.

Related: Costco's Stunning Textured Lamp Set Delivers High-Quality Lighting at a Budget-Friendly Price

I also pay close attention to layout. Wide top drawers are perfect for everyday essentials you reach for constantly, while lower drawers can handle jeans, sweaters, and seasonal items you don't want to see piled on a chair. If you can clear off those piles of clothing, your room instantly looks more pulled together.

And yes, value matters. I run a business and a household, so I'm always weighing price against longevity. A well-built dresser that feels solid when you open and close the drawers, uses quality materials, and offers versatile storage is worth spending on because it touches your life every single day. When you find that sweet spot. Modern design, smart storage, and a price that makes sense. You're not just buying furniture. You're buying back calm, time, and a bedroom that finally feels like it belongs to the version of you you're building now.

Related: Costco's Antique-Inspired Gold Wall Mirror Is a Charming Addition to Any Room

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If you love ’70s-style decor but not the delicate upkeep of vintage pieces, this patio rug gives you the look without the extra maintenance. Walmart has the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Tiled Stripes Outdoor Rug on rollback for $97, down from $137. It features a gorgeous sage-green geometric pattern and rounded shapes that feel straight out of a vintage design magazine, making it an affordable way to add more personality to any outdoor space.

The rug measures 7 by 10 feet and is made of 92% polypropylene and 8% polyester, with a flat-woven surface designed for indoor or outdoor use. It has fade-resistant material and non-skid backing. It’s easy to rinse off outside and the material makes it easy to clean, but you can machine wash it as well in a pinch.

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Tiled Stripes Outdoor Rug, $97 (was $137) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Its indoor-outdoor design offers more flexibility than a rug designed only for the patio. You can use it outside during warmer months, then move it into a sunroom or dining area when the weather cools down. And since it’s machine washable, tracked-in dirt, spills, and everyday messes are much easier to tackle.

Shoppers have called the rug “very cute” and praised its durability. One person said “the size is perfect,” while another wrote, “This rug is absolutely gorgeous.” The same reviewer said it gave the area a “warm, inviting feel” that was “perfect for gatherings, game nights, or just hanging out,” and added that it was “soft and comfortable” to walk on.

Related: Walmart's 'Vibrant' $32 Botanical Outdoor Rug Brightens Up Any Patio and Comes in 4 Tropical Prints

The sage color would pair especially well with cream cushions, warm wood furniture, and woven accents, while brighter pillows and planters could make the setup feel more playful. And since the rug measures a generous 7 by 10 feet, it can live beneath a conversation set or outdoor dining table to make the patio feel more sectioned off if needed. 

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• Beautiful Soft Teal Ceramic Planter by Drew Barrymore, $8 (was $20) at Walmart
• Kueth Reversible Plastic Outdoor Rug, From $21 (was $46) at Walmart
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Large patio rugs can easily cost well over $200, but this one is just $97 and still gives you a full 7-by-10-foot size, non-skid backing, and a fun pattern. It’s also machine washable and designed for indoor or outdoor use, so you can keep using it even after patio season ends. Be sure to shop the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Tiled Stripes Outdoor Rug at Walmart while the rollback price is still available.

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Catherine Newman'sWreckquickly became one of the best-reviewed books of 2025, earning widespread praise for its emotional honesty, humor, and deeply human storytelling. Following the success of her bestselling novel Sandwich, Newman returned with another intimate story about family, grief, resilience, and the unexpected ways people find hope. The novel has been named a "Best Book of the Year" by multiple publications, cementing Newman's reputation as one of contemporary fiction's most celebrated voices. Now, readers can once again revisit Wreck when it is released in paperback this August.

Why Wreck Has Been Called One of the Best Books of the Year View this post on Instagram

Like much of Newman's work, Wreck expertly balances heart and humor as it explores difficult emotions without losing sight of optimism or the small moments of joy that connect people.

Oprah Daily named Wreck to its "25 Best Books of Fall 2025" list, writing, "In this utterly joyful standalone novel, Newman brings back the beloved star of her summer smash hit Sandwich. But instead of braving Cape Cod's overpriced clam shacks, she's cozied up for fall in her Massachusetts home, desperate to get to the bottom of her freaky new rash, a mysterious local train accident, and—just maybe—how to live a life of meaningful love in a world of brutal impermanence."

People magazine also lauded the book on its "Must-Read Books of Fall 2025" list, writing, "Rocky is obsessed with a local train crash and her own undiagnosed illness in this honest, hilarious and heartbreaking follow-up to Sandwich. You'll savor the prose from the very first line."

What It Means to Be a New York Times Instant Bestseller View this post on Instagram

Released on October 28, 2025, Wreck debuted as a New York Times Instant Bestseller, one of the publishing industry's most notable achievements. An "instant bestseller" means a book reaches The New York Times Best Seller list immediately following its release, often during its first week on sale. Exceptionally strong early sales across a wide range of bookstores and online retailers indicate both high demand and significant anticipation before publication. For authors, the designation often leads to increased visibility, expanded bookstore placement, and continued media attention long after a book's initial release.

Why the Paperback Release Is Important

Wreck will be released in paperback this August, another important milestone in the book's journey. Paperback editions are typically more affordable than hardcover editions, making them accessible to a wider audience. They are also lighter and easier to travel with, making them especially appealing to readers on the go. A paperback release often brings renewed attention through bookstore displays, seasonal reading lists, and book clubs, giving an acclaimed novel a second life and introducing it to new readers.

Catherine Newman's Lasting Impact on Contemporary Fiction

One of contemporary fiction's most admired authors, Catherine Newman's novels resonate because they find humor, heartbreak, and hope in everyday family relationships. As Wreck continues to earn widespread acclaim ahead of its highly anticipated paperback release, the novel is reaching new audiences while reinforcing Newman's reputation as one of today's most compelling storytellers.

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While the iconic Joni Mitchellsong "Woodstock" (later covered by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young) was, obviously, written about Woodstock, it wasn't performed there. In fact, Mitchell wasn't even able to attend the legendary festival due to a scheduled TV appearance. Another song that actually was played live at Woodstock, however, perfectly summed up the spirit of the moment...even though it was already a hit beforehand.

Originally released on their 1968 album Living the Blues, "Going Up the Country" was one of Canned Heat's biggest hits, peaking at #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1969. Written and sung by Alan Wilson, the song was based on a somewhat obscure '20s blues song called "Bull Doze Blues" by Henry Thomas. Some things about the song were changed quite a bit, according to American Songwriter, like the lyrics.

While "Bull Doze Blues" was about leaving a woman, Wilson's lyrics for "Going Up the Country" reflected his love of nature and almost seemed as if they were written about Woodstock before it even happened:

I'm going up the country
Baby, don't you wanna go?
I'm going up the country
Baby, don't you wanna go?
We gonna go somewhere
Where I've never been before

I'm going, I'm going
Where the water tastes like wine
I'm going
Where the water tastes like wine
So we can jump in the water
Stay drunk all the time

“Alan was far more interested in birds and flowers than women,” Canned Heat manager Skip Taylor told Classic Rock. “He was extremely well-read and always had a pile of books with him. When everyone else was getting laid on tour, he’d be in a museum.”

Naturally, the band was a perfect fit for Woodstock...even though they weren't particularly prepared. For one thing, they were exhausted from touring.

"We were sleeping in the cargo area of the airplane hangar,” drummer Fito de la Parra recalled, adding, “I told Skip to leave me alone because I didn’t want to go to Woodstock.”

Archive Photos / Getty Images

As it turned out, Canned Heat almost never made it to Max Yasgur’s New York farm. The helicopter that was supposed to transport the band to the festival never showed, which led to vocalist and harmonica player Bob Hite "commandeering" a chopper full of journalists.

“F—k you, we’re going to make the news!” he said at the time. “We are the Canned Heat! It is more important that we get there than you so we’re taking this helicopter!”

A few years later, in a 1974 interview with Sounds, Hite admitted that Canned Heat wasn't exactly in top form at Woodstock.

"We've always just fallen into something within a couple of days and then just gone out on the road and played," he said, per Songfacts. "Sometimes it's shown it and sometimes it's been incredible. The Woodstock performance which although there were a couple of tunes which weren't too good, 'Going Up the Country' was one of them."

Nevertheless, "Going Up the Country" was included on Woodstock's triple-LP soundtrack recording, and even though Canned Heat's live performance was cut from the Woodstock movie because of a dispute over royalties, the studio version played over a montage in the film (Canned Heat's Woodstock appearance was, however, included in the director's cut).

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