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The popular rock band Queens of the Stone Age, which has been around since 1996, shared an exciting tour update with fans on July 14. While the band's schedule is currently packed to the brim with shows all over in 2026, they shared a big announcement about a new upcoming leg of the tour.

Queens of the Stone Age shared that they will be embarking on a six-concert tour across Australia this December. The U.S. band will start with a stop in Adelaide on Dec. 8, followed by Hobart on Dec. 11, Melbourne on Dec. 13, Sydney on Dec. 15, Newcastle on Dec. 16, and Brisbane on Dec. 18. At the same time, the band added one show in New Zealand in Auckland on Dec. 20.

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Queens of the Stone Age will be performing with special guests Primus and Tropical F**k Storm during the tour. For interested fans, the general sale for tickets is on Monday, July 20, at 11 p.m. local time. But some fans can get tickets early, with an artist and Mastercard presale on Thursday, July 16, and a Live Nation presale on Friday, July 17.

Australian fans were hyped about the big news, with responses on Instagram like, "Couldn’t be more happy with this lineup!" and "Australia tour, let's Goooo!" A third wrote, "My two fav bands of all time????!!!!! Wha?!?!"

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

There were some fans who were disappointed that one major Australian city, Perth, was missing from the tour, among other places, while people in other countries said, "australia you are luckiest continent ever," and "Australia, you lucky SOBs!!!"

Along with the tour announcement, Queens of the Stone Age released their first new song since 2023 on July 14, called "Easy Street," as well as an official music video. While the band hasn't officially announced that a new album is coming, many fans assume that a full record will follow the single at some point.

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

The Eagles are once again back on the Billboard charts, even over five decades after releasing their first album.

The legendary American rock band re-entered the Rock Streaming Songs chart this week with their debut single, "Take It Easy," which came out more than 54 years ago.

Originally released in May 1972 as the lead single from their self-titled debut album, "Take It Easy" has re-entered the Rock Streaming Songs chart at No. 22, according to new Billboard chart standings dated the week of July 18. It's ranked one spot ahead of the band's signature track "Hotel California," which sits at No. 23 this week.

"Take It Easy" is one of the Eagles' biggest songs, previously peaking at No. 12 on the Hot 100 in July 1972. It's frequently considered by critics as one of the best songs in the Eagles' catalog, with Rolling Stone ranking it the band's No. 2 greatest song ever, behind only "Hotel California."

Billboardalso included "Take It Easy" on a 2023 ranking of the 15 Best Eagles Songs, placing it at No. 3 behind "Hotel California" at No. 1 and "Desperado" at No. 2.

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"Take It Easy" isn't the only Eagles track to resurface on the Billboard charts recently, as their iconic 1976 compilation album Their Greatest Hits(1971-1975) re-entered the Billboard 200 back in May. The 10-track album features some of the band's biggest hits, like "Take It Easy," "One of These Nights," "Desperado," "Take It To the Limit," "Lyin' Eyes," "The Best of My Love" and more. The record has spent a total of 538 weeks on the Billboard 200, following its five-week run at No. 1 in 1976.

Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 helped the Eagles become the best-selling American rock band of all time, as it the biggest album in the history of the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) with a 40x Platinum certification, signifying 40 million units sold.

And it's not the only Eagles record in the top 3, as the band's 1976 studio album Hotel California was upgraded to 28x-platinum in January 2026, making it the RIAA’s third-biggest album ever.

Related: 1979 Rock Ballad, Inspired By Lead Singer's Personal Tragedy, Was Ranked the 'Saddest Song Ever'

In 1968, Canadian singer-songwriter Paul Ankaheard the French song titled "Comme d'habitude" while vacationing in the country. He immediately flew to Paris to negotiate for the rights to the song. Sometime later, Anka was having dinner with Frank Sinatra, who at the time claimed he was done with "the business," saying, "I'm sick of it; I'm getting the hell out."

Following the dinner, Anka reworked "Comme d'habitude" for Sinatra, altering the musical structure and changing the lyrics. He finished the song at 5 in the morning and called up Sinatra, who was gambling at Caesar's Palace, and told him, "I've got something really special for you."

The reworked version of the song was the classic ballad we now all know and love, "My Way."

On December 30, 1968, Sinatra recorded "My Way" in just one take. "My Way" was released in early 1969 on the LP of the same name, as well as a single.

In the United States, "My Way" peaked at No. 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the Easy Listening chart. The song was unmatched as a hit in the United Kingdom, spending 75 weeks from April 1969 to September 1971 within the Top 40.

The track would go on to become what many consider to be Sinatra's signature song. Despite this, he was famously not a fan of the song. His daughter Tina said her father, "always thought that song was self-serving and self-indulgent."

Over the years, "My Way" has become a global staple for karaoke songs. Because of this, it's available on almost every major digital platform and at every karaoke bar. Fans of the song gravitate toward it for its drama, its build, and its showstopping finale.

"My Way" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2000. In 2026, CBS News compiled a list of the 250 songs they considered a part of the "Essential American Songbook," on which "My Way" is also included.

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Related: 1941 Timeless Love Song Wasn’t a Hit Until This 1960 Recording

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 Wednesday, July 15, 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 Wednesday, July 15, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: ___ shrimp (classic oxymoron) — HINT: Starts with the letter "J"

6 Across: Love, to a Frenchman —HINT: Ends with the letter "R"

7 Across: Table from Aesop — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

8 Across: Friend, to a Spaniard — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

9 Across: Provokes, with "up" — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Disney villain between Gaston and Scar — HINT: Ends with the letter "R"

2 Down: The so-called "fifth taste" — HINT: Starts with the letter "U"

3 Down: Gas brand that merged with Exxon — HINT: Ends with the letter "L"

4 Down: Stick out noticeably — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

5 Down: Milkshake mix-ins that might get stuck in your straw — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Wednesday, July 15, 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: ___ shrimp (classic oxymoron) — JUMBO

6 Across: Love, to a Frenchman —AMOUR

7 Across: Table from Aesop — FABLE

8 Across: Friend, to a Spaniard — AMIGO

9 Across: Provokes, with "up" — RILES

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Disney villain between Gaston and Scar — JAFAR

2 Down: The so-called "fifth taste" — UMAMI

3 Down: Gas brand that merged with Exxon — MOBIL

4 Down: Stick out noticeably — BULGE

5 Down: Milkshake mix-ins that might get stuck in your straw — OREOS

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Tuesday, July 14, 2026

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Diamond necklaces that go with everything are chef’s kiss. Those are the types of minimalist pieces of jewelry that everyone needs in their collection, and a bezel-set necklace is a prime example. With diamonds spaced throughout the chain, these necklaces looks elegant, but can also be worn with a casual look.

We tracked one down on ShopHQ that we think you’ll swoon over. The Brilliante Sterling Silver Simulated Diamond Bezel-Set Line Necklace is just $90, and looks like the real thing. 

Brilliante Sterling Silver Simulated Diamond Bezel-Set Line Necklace, $90 (was $160) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

The stainless steel necklace is stacked with sparkling, round simulated diamonds in a classic bezel setting that looks so chic. The diamonds are set directly in the chain and vary in size, and give the necklace a weight of about 9.2 grams. 

That means it has some weight to it, but it’s not so heavy that it won’t be comfortable if you wear it every day. The combo makes it the perfect staple necklace, because you can dress it up or down.

The chain is 18 inches, and will hit right around your collarbone. It’s a great length if you want to wear it solo, but it also works just as well stacked with other slim silver necklaces. In spite of its major sparkle, we love that you can pair it with something as simple as a fitted top and jeans to take the outfit to the next level in a simple way. 

Related: Taylor Swift's Favorite Kendra Scott Drop Earrings Are on Sale for Just $43 at Amazon

We love gemstone necklaces, but everyone needs a staple diamond necklace, too. This simulated diamond necklace is a great gift for yourself or a loved one. Grab one while it’s just $90.

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Iron Maiden's iconic 1982 track has been given a fresh spin as thrash metal veterans Heathen celebrated the legendary band's 50th anniversary.

In celebration of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees' major milestone, the Bay Area band chose to cover "The Prisoner" due to the track's heavy intro, uptempo verses, catchy chorus and classic instrumental section, which suited them.

In an Instagram update, the five-piece band composed of lead vocalist David White, guitarists Kragen Lum and Kyle Edissi, bassist Jason Mirza and drummer Blake Anderson announced the release of their version of "The Prisoner" as a standalone digital single.

For Lum, covering such an iconic song 44 years after its release was a way to show the band's deep respect for Iron Maiden by delivering their own rendition while adding Heathen's signature thrash metal touch.

Iron Maiden backstage at the Alpine Valley Music Theater during their World Piece Tour in 1983.

Paul Natkin/Getty Images

“What can we say about the legendary Iron Maiden that hasn’t already been said? They’ve given us 50 years of energetic, melodic metal that’s inspired Heathen and legions of other bands in the genre. ‘The Prisoner’ was an easy choice for us to cover, with its heavy intro, up-tempo verses, catchy chorus, and classic instrumental section. We added a few touches to Heathenize the song while staying true to what made it so great when it was first released in 1982. Enjoy this recording as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of heavy metal’s greatest bands. Up the Irons!” the guitarist said as cited by Napalm Records.

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"The Prisoner" was released as part of Iron Maiden's third album, The Number of the Beast.

Written by guitarist Adrian Smith and bassist Steve Harris, it was inspired by the classic 1960s British television series The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan, who played Number Six.

Prior to the release, Iron Maiden's manager Rod Smallwood reportedly asked McGoohan for permission to use dialogue from the series, which he enthusiastically approved.

“What did you say the name was? Iron Maiden? Do it,” the actor said, as cited by Consequence.

The dialogue has since become one of the rock band's most iconic song introductions.

As mentioned, this was Heathen's tribute to Iron Maiden in celebration of the legendary band's 50th anniversary, which has been marked by a massive world tour spanning 2025 and 2026.

Outside of the tribute release, the band fronted by White is also in the middle of its tour, performing in major cities across the Northeastern United States and Canada from July through August.

Joining them as special guests are Metal Church and Void on selected dates.

Related: ’70s Metal Band Announces Update Amid 2026 World Tour

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If you’ve been wanting to add some more cheerful color to your summer setup, JCPenney has a deal worth checking out. Right now, you can get the Martha Stewart 12-Piece Martha Blue Gracie Lane Ceramic Dinnerware Set for just $54, down from $100, with code 26SUMMER. The blue, white, and gold set includes complete place settings for four, so you’ll have matching dishes ready for family dinners, weekend brunches, and meals outside. 

It comes with four 10.5-inch dinner plates, four 7.6-inch dessert plates, and four 24-ounce cereal bowls. Each piece is made of ceramic and has a glossy finish, with pretty blue wrapping around the edges. The gold-colored rims add a luxe touch, though the round shapes keep the set simple enough for everyday use. The dishes are also microwave-safe, and handwashing is recommended to help preserve the finish.

Martha Stewart 12-Piece Martha Blue Gracie Lane Ceramic Dinnerware Set, $54 (was $100) at JCPenney

Courtesy of JCPenney

Shop at JCPenney

Buying plates and bowls separately can get expensive. This set gives you everything you need for dinner for four, and you can even use the smaller plates for dessert or breakfast the next morning. The bowls are large enough for cereal, pasta, soup, or a generous serving of fruit. And at $54, each piece comes out to about $4.50, making the set an affordable way to replace mismatched dishes or refresh your table before hosting your next summer event.

One shopper, who has purchased the set four times, said the pieces are “elegant, durable, and shine on any table, informal or formal,” noting that “every meal feels special.” Another called them “absolutely beautiful,” while a third person said the set has “a quaint, nostalgic feel to it.” 

Related: Martha Stewart’s ‘Adorable’ $15 Nautical Platter Is Serving All the Coastal Charm

This set can work well beyond the warmer months, too, which is worth keeping in mind since it includes 12 pieces rather than a few seasonal accent plates. The blue-and-white combo would be great in the spring, winter, and for everyday meals alike. It would also make a very thoughtful and practical housewarming or wedding gift.

If you’ve been looking for the perfect opportunity to upgrade your summer hosting collection, this set is the perfect way to do it without splurging on something you can only use occasionally. Be sure to snag the Martha Stewart 12-Piece Martha Blue Gracie Lane Ceramic Dinnerware Set for just $54 with code 26SUMMER while it’s still in stock at JCPenney.

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Having one hit is hard enough but some songs are so good, they can be covered by multiple artists, cross genres and reach the upper regions of the chart decades apart. Such is the case with “She’s All I Got.”

Written by Jerry Williams Jr., better known as Swamp Dogg, and his best friendGary U.S. Bonds, it was originally sung by R&B singer Freddie North. Recorded for his album Friend, the song became a modest hit in 1971 when it was released as a single, peaking at No. 39 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and No. 10 on the Soul Singles chart. It was North’s only chart hit in his career, but the life of “She’s All I Got” was just beginning.

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The same year that North’s version was released, veteran country singer Johnny Paycheck’s take of the song peaked at No. 2 on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart, where it spent a total of 19 weeks. Paycheck’s version also managed to crack the Hot 100 at No. 91, his only single to ever appear on the all-genre chart.

Country singer Tanya Tucker also had her way with the song, flipping the genre to “He’s All I Got” on her 1972 album Delta Dawn. That album spawned two top 10 country songs—the title track and “Love’s the Answer”--though her version of “He’s All I Got” wasn’t released as a single.

Also in 1972, none other than George Jones recorded his version of the song, perhaps as a nod to Paycheck, who once played bass in his band.

More than two decades later, the song made a surprise return to the charts with a new extended title “Don’t Take Her She’s All I Got” after it was recorded by country star Tracy Byrd. The song was the second single released from Byrd’s 1996 album Big Love and it reached No. 4 on the country singles charts in the U.S. and Canada in 1997. It was also Byrd’s second hit cover of a song previously recorded by Paycheck. His first, “Someone to Give My Love To,” was a hit in 1993.

“She’s All I Got” reappeared in this decade when the song’s co-writer, Swamp Dogg, opted to release his own version on his 2020 album Sorry You Couldn’t Make It. Swamp, who celebrated his 84th birthday on July 12 and recently released the new album Swamp Dogg Contemplates the Afterlife, gave another slight twist to the song’s title by adding parenthesis to make it “Don’t Take Her (She’s All I Got).”

Pregnant Anne Hathaway wore a custom GapStudio dress during an appearance on Late Night With Seth Meyers for her latest blockbuster project, The Odyssey. Wait, the Gap? 

The flowing frock gave major Grecian vibes, making it perfect for The Odyssey’s press tour. If you’re wondering how the words ‘Gap’ and ‘custom’ ended up in the same sentence, the iconic brand isn’t just a mall staple. In recent years, Gap has had a major transformation. And Hathaway’s runway-ready look is proof.

Actress Anne Hathaway in GapStudio. (Photo by: Lloyd Bishop/NBC via Getty Images)

While GapStudio is still part of the Gap family, it has a decidedly upscale flair. Designed by the legendary Zac Posen (who is also the current Executive Vice President and Creative Director of Gap, Inc.), the brand atelier is, according to the company’s website, “Producing pieces of our highest expression of creativity and quality” and “Reimagines our icons. A study in construction and form—transforming everyday essentials into works of art.”

Posen posted pics of Hathaway on Instagram in his custom one-of-a-kind creation, writing, “The beauty of simplicity.” 

What do the actress’s fans (and a few famous friends) think of her GapStudio look? Brooks Nader commented on Posen’s post, responding with a simple “Unreal,” and model/singer/songwriter Karen Elson raved, “This is gorgeous!” The applause for The Odyssey press tour ensemble didn’t stop there. Fans gushed over the sleek, sophisticated, and chic GapStudio creation, “Wow, literally”, “Ethereal!” and “Elegance!”

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Of course, this isn't the first press tour outfit to make headlines. On June 30, she turned heads in a bold red peplum scoop-neck jumpsuit from Ashlyn New York’s Soring/Summer 2026 collection. But a few eagle-eyed fans noticed that something seemed off, claiming that Hathaway wore it backwards. 

In a hilariously self-deprecating Instagram post, Hathaway shared pics of the fashion flub from articles in British Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and InStyle, noting that she wore the red number the wrong way around. Hathaway then appears in the clip, saying, “I did? I did.” 

View this post on Instagram What did Anne Hathaway wear to The Odyssey’s New York premiere? Anne Hathaway attends the New York premiere of 'The Odyssey.' (Photo by Theo Wargo/WireImage) Getty Images

While Hathaway wore Gap for press events, she chose Prada for The Odyssey’s New York premiere on Tuesday evening. The pregnant actress simply sparkled in a glam silver and ivory  gown, featuring a blinged-out criss-cross halter. Wow!

As Mick Jagger sang," "summer's here and the time is right for fighting in the street, boy." By the summer of 1968, the vibe shifted from "Dancing in the Street" (which Jagger would end up covering years later with David Bowie) to one of unrest and revolution, a shift which resulted in perhaps the most political Rolling Stones song of all time: "Street Fighting Man."

Released on Beggar's Banquet, "Street Fighting Man" was written by Jagger and Keith Richards after the frontman attended an anti-war rally at London's U.S. Embassy where mounted police tried to control a crowd of over 20,000. As Jagger explained in a 1995 Rolling Stone interview with Jann Wenner, he was also inspired by protests happening outside of the U.K.

"It was a very strange time in France," he recalled. "But not only in France but also in America, because of the Vietnam War and these endless disruptions...I thought it was a very good thing at the time."

"There was all this violence going on," Jagger continued. "I mean, they almost toppled the government in France; [Charles] de Gaulle went into this complete funk, as he had in the past, and he went and sort of locked himself in his house in the country. And so the government was almost inactive. And the French riot police were amazing."

The way the Stones recorded "Street Fighting Man" was its own form of rebellion, in a way, in which typical methods (and even instruments) were set aside.

"'Street Fighting Man' was recorded on Keith's cassette with a 1930s toy drum kit called a London Jazz Kit Set, which I bought in an antiques shop, and which I've still got at home," Charlie Watts explained in the 2003 book According to the Rolling Stones.

"It came in a little suitcase, and there were wire brackets you put the drums in; they were like small tambourines with no jangles," Watts continued. "The snare drum was fantastic because it had a really thin skin with a snare right underneath, but only two strands of gut...Keith loved playing with the early cassette machines because they would overload, and when they overload they sounded fantastic, although you weren't meant to do that. We usually played in one of the bedrooms on tour. Keith would be sitting on a cushion playing a guitar and the tiny kit was a way of getting close to him. The drums were really loud compared to the acoustic guitar and the pitch of them would go right through the sound. You'd always have a great backbeat."

Mark Hayward Archive / Getty Images

Of course, the finished product would end up becoming one of the band's most beloved songs ever (decades later, Rolling Stone ranked it at #301 on a list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time"), but when "Street Fighting Man" was first released, nobody really got to hear it on the radio. Due to the nature of the lyrics, pretty much every radio station in the U.S. refused to play the song, per Far Out.

"I'm rather pleased to hear they have banned ["Street Fighting Man"]. The last time they banned one of our records in America, it sold a million," Jagger said at the time, referring to "Let's Spend the Night Together."

When he was told "Street Fighting Man" was considered to be subversive, Jagger agreed.

"Of course it's subversive! It's stupid to think you can start a revolution with a record. I wish you could," he said, according to The Rolling Stones: Off the Record.

Over half a century later, millions of people still share that wish. At the time of this writing, "Street Fighting Man" has 66,754,242 streams on Spotify alone.

Related: 1971 Rock Classic, Ranked Among 'Best Guitar Solos of All Time,' Was Recorded by Accident

A lot of magicians and singers have won America’s Got Talent, but it’s the danger acts that always capture the audience’s attention, especially judge Simon Cowell, who one year created a special version – America’s Got Talent: Extreme – that only featured the death-defying acts.

But they still continue to be a part of regular AGT and tonight’s episode featured Ukranian Aerial Pole artist Veronika Goroshkova.

“When I was a little girl in Ukraine, I always wanted to be onstage,” she said in her video package. “My mom always [encouraged] me to chase my dreams, so I leave Ukraine four years ago and I moved to America. It was so hard to leave my family, but I am so excited my mother came to see my performance on America’s Got Talent.

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“She’s like a sister and a friend, she not only gives me support, I feel she understands me. I have been doing this act all my life. I always watched America’s Got Talent. It was my dream to perform on this show. This was my dream to show the world what I can do.”

Unlike previous aerial acts that performed on the AGT main stage, Veronika’s platform was built behind the judges’ table so that Simon, Sofia Vergara, Mel B and Howie Mandel had to move their seats to be able to watch the young aerialist perform her take-your-breath-away act.

“What’s interesting, you mentioned the Olympics,” Simon told Veronika when she finished. “That felt like a Gold Medal performance in every way, your showmanship, it was so difficult. I loved that you put the stage [behind us] so we were looking at things from a different perspective. You see how hard and dangerous this is. I think that was perfection.”

Related: Don’t Miss the 17-Year-Old Whose Adorable Dog Act Completely Wins Over the America’s Got Talent Judges’ Hearts

Then Sofia jumped in, attempting to fake Veronika out as to her intentions. “I was really, really into it in a way, but we were at a weird angle to look at it. We’ve seen a lot of these kinds of acts. But I don’t know why I have this feeling…I’m going to do this right now.”

And the audience, which had been booing her for not appreciating Veronika, turned to cheering as Sofia hit the Golden Buzzer.

Backstage, Sofia said, “I have to say, you deserved it. That was amazing. I was, ‘How is this happening before our eyes. It’s so dangerous.’  I’ve never seen it like that. She was doing it with a smile. She was making it look so easy, but I know it wasn’t. It takes years and years of preparation to be this good.”

Veronica said, “I can’t believe this. For me, it’s like magic.”

Then Sofia said, “ She was going to make it anyway. All the way to the top without me but I just wanted to give her a little push.”

America’s Got Talent airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. Streams next day on Peacock.

Next,Watch the ‘Insane’ Dancing Robots that Leave Simon Cowell Gobsmacked on Tonight’s America’s Got Talent

When it came to the ‘80s and power ballads, REO Speedwagon reigned supreme. In fact, the arena rock band’s ninth studio album, Hi Infidelity, was an absolute juggernaut, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, where it stayed for 15 non-consecutive weeks. 

Additionally, Hi Infidelity became the biggest-selling album of 1981, taking the title as the Billboard No. 1 Album of the Year. Several fan-favorite hits belong on Hi Infidelity, such as “Take It on the Run,” “Don’t Let Him Go,” and “In Your Letter,” but one song helped pioneer the modern power ballad format — “Keep On Loving You.” 

Written by REO’s lead singer Kevin Cronin, “Keep On Loving You” gave REO Speedwagon their first No. 1 hit and set the bar for popular first-dance wedding tracks. However, Cronin, who originally penned the song as a traditional love ballad and told American Songwriter “the verses came in about 20 minutes, in pretty much their finished form,” drew inspiration from his real life. According to Song Facts, he wrote the song as a response to his wife, Denise, who had cheated on him. 

"That song is a yin-yang thing, where there is obviously trouble in paradise in the verses, but I always believed that people are capable of changing, and that if your life runs into a tough spot, it doesn't mean that you necessarily have to run from it,” Cronin told SongFacts of the song. “You can also look it in the eye, and if there is enough worthwhile in the relationship to keep it going, then you give it all you've got, and that's what I did. Even in giving it all I got, at some point, we realized that it just wasn't going to work. So when I wrote that line, I meant it. I tried my best, but it just didn't happen."

Since its release in November of 1980, “Keep On Loving You” has continued to be a beloved track in REO Speedwagon’s catalog. Over the years, the song has been placed on various lists, including Ultimate Classic Rock’s 2025 ‘50 Greatest Power Ballads of All Time,' where it ranked at No. 11. In 2013, the outlet named “Keep On Loving You” as the No. 1 REO Speedwagon all-time greatest song.

“Keep On Loving You” became somewhat of a blueprint for the power ballad sound, which REO Speedwagon perfected with follow-up hits like “Can’t Fight This Feeling” and “Keep the Fire Burnin'.”

Related: 1958 Timeless Classic, Reimagined by a 13-Year-Old, Ranked Among ‘Best Country Songs of All Time’

Nearly three decades after forming, Soulfly is once again bringing its signature blend of groove, thrash and tribal metal to fans across the United States.

The Max Cavalera-fronted band has announced a 25-date U.S. tour for fall 2026, featuring support from Nailbomb and Incite. The trek begins Sept. 18 with an appearance at Louder Than Life in Louisville, Kentucky, before winding through cities including Dallas, Salt Lake City and West Hollywood and concluding Oct. 15 with a hometown headline show in Tempe, Arizona.

Soulfly shared the announcement on Instagram, writing: "TRIBE! Join SOULFLY in the US this fall with @nailbomb_band_official and @incite_heavymetal 🔥 🎟️ General admission tickets for the tour go on sale July 15th at 10am local time."

Fans can expect the band to perform songs from its latest album, Chama, including "Favela Dystopia," "No Pain = No Power," "Storm the Gates" and the title track, alongside the classics that have defined Soulfly's career.

"I feel [Chama], in a weird, unique way, the attitude of it is very punk in its essence," Cavalera told Blabbermouth in 2025. "It's a short record, shorter songs. It's full of meaning between the tracks, 'Storm The Gates', 'No Pain = No Power', 'Nihilist' — it's, like, the message is there. I'm singing with conviction. I'm saying the words because I believe in them and I'm screaming them with truly fully convinced about what I'm saying."

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The tour's supporting lineup carries special significance, too.

Joining the tour is Nailbomb, the influential industrial metal project originally formed in 1993 by Max Cavalera and Alex Newport, making its return for a rare series of live performances. Also appearing is Incite, fronted by Max's stepson Richie Cavalera, creating a very rare lineup of the extended Cavalera musical legacy.

Formed in 1997 following Max Cavalera's departure from Sepultura, Soulfly quickly established itself as one of the defining names in modern metal. Across 13 studio albums, the band has blended thrash, death metal, groove metal and world music influences into a distinctive sound heard on songs such as "Back to the Primitive," "Eye for an Eye," "Prophecy," and "Downstroy."

The upcoming tour also continues to support Chama, the band's 2025 album that marked another creative chapter for Soulfly. The record was co-produced by drummer Zyon Cavalera, Max's son, and features the crushing riffs and tribal rhythms that have become hallmarks of the band's music.

"I think this Soulfly record to me feels new, it feels different, it feels special," Cavalera told Metal Talk. "It feels like a new beginning in the band. I don't know if it's because of the way it was done. It was a completely unorthodox way, having Zyon produce the album and having a lot of really cool different guests on the album and really thinking outside of the basics in some of the songs. Just going for it."

For longtime fans, the tour offers more than just another opportunity to see Soulfly live. With Nailbomb returning to the stage and Incite rounding out the bill, the run celebrates multiple generations of the Cavalera family's impact on heavy music.

Nearly 30 years after Soulfly first emerged, the band continues to prove it remains a powerful force in modern metal. The 2026 U.S. tour promises to showcase both its newest material and the songs that have united the "Soulfly Tribe" for decades.

Related: 1972 Classic Ballad, Written by a 22-Year-Old, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

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Summer is supposed to mean sunshine, heat waves, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. But somehow, the hottest months of the year can also leave you reaching for a sweater. The reason? Air conditioning and fans. Shops, offices, restaurants, movie theaters, and public transportation all crank up the cold to combat rising temperatures, creating a strange paradox where stepping inside feels refreshing for about five minutes before goose bumps start to appear.

The Uvplove Short-Sleeve Cotton-Blend Cardigan at Walmart is an easy solution for chilly indoors, adding just enough warmth without the heaviness of a traditional crewneck. Originally $22, it is now marked down 46% to just $12, making it an affordable layer to keep folded in your purse, tucked into a work bag, or draped over the back of your desk chair all season long.

Uvplove Short-Sleeve Cotton-Blend Cardigan, $12 (was $22) at Walmart

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Designed for those tricky in-between temperatures, this cardigan offers the coverage of a light sweater while keeping the silhouette breathable and easy to wear. Made from a lightweight mercerized cotton blend, the fabric goes through a special treatment that smooths and strengthens the cotton fibers, giving it a softer feel, subtle sheen, and a more polished drape than traditional cotton. 

The short-sleeve design keeps it seasonally appropriate, adding coverage across the shoulders and arms without the heaviness of a full sweater. Its open, drapey front can be styled multiple ways depending on the temperature or your outfit. Leave it loose, tuck it closed for a more structured silhouette, or tie the front to create a more fitted shape.

Beyond its comfort, the versatility is what makes this piece a summer staple. Pair it with a sundress for a little extra coverage during cooler evenings, throw it over a blouse and trousers for an office outfit, or layer it with a tank top and shorts when heading from a hot afternoon outside into an aggressively air-conditioned space. 

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All five in-stock colors are currently on sale, giving shoppers the choice between deeper neutrals like black or charcoal and softer shades that look lighter and more summery. Available in sizes small through 3X-large, the cardigan has a naturally relaxed fit that keeps the drape easy and comfortable without feeling oversized. If you prefer a more exaggerated, shawl-like look with extra fabric to wrap around your shoulders, consider sizing up for a roomier silhouette.

Shoppers left plenty of praise for this “lightweight” and “stretchy” cardigan’s “versatility,” saying that it “gives just enough coverage without making you hot,” making it “great for summer and into early fall.” One shopper wrote, “The material is soft, smooth and breathable, [and] the length is great.”

Related: Costco Stocked an Airy Cotton Gauze Shirt That's a Summer Wardrobe Essential

Whether you are battling a freezing office, a chilly restaurant, or an overly enthusiastic A/C unit, the $12 Uvplove Short-Sleeve Cotton-Blend Cardigan is a summer layer you will be glad you packed. Grab it at Walmart while it is still 46% off!

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Country singer Hudson Westbrook has announced new dates for his 2026 Hits Me Tour, expanding what is set to become the biggest headlining run of his career so far.

The 24-date tour will feature special guests Kenny Whitmire and Ethan Burdick and will bring the Texas native to several major markets for his first-ever headline appearances.

The tour opens with back-to-back sold-out performances at Billy Bob's in Fort Worth, Texas, on Sept. 18 and Sept. 19 before continuing across the United States through Dec. 5, when the run wraps in Nacogdoches, Texas.

Among the biggest milestones for Westbrook are his first headline shows in Los Angeles at The Novo, Washington, D.C. at The Anthem, New York City at Terminal 5, and Boston at Roadrunner.

Hudson Westbrook visits SiriusXM Studios on January 14, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photo by Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images

Tickets for the newly announced dates go on sale Friday, while select fan club and venue presales will take place earlier in the week.

The tour is named after Westbrook's recently released song, "Hits Me," which arrived last week and gives fans an early look at the next chapter of music from the fast-rising country artist.

View this post on Instagram Hudson Westbrook Expands Headlining Tour

Westbrook's upcoming run will take him coast to coast, stopping in Texas, Arizona, California, New Mexico, Virginia, Connecticut, South Carolina and Oklahoma, among other states.

The singer will make stops in cities including Tempe, Oceanside, Modesto, Paso Robles, Richmond, Wallingford and Charleston before closing the tour in his home state of Texas.

The schedule includes:

• Sept. 18-19 — Fort Worth, Texas — Billy Bob's
• Sept. 24 — Pasadena, Texas — Pasadena Livestock Show & Rodeo
• Oct. 1 — El Paso, Texas — Cowtown Event Center
• Oct. 2 — Tempe, Arizona — Mullett Arena
• Oct. 3 — Oceanside, California — Frontwave Arena
• Oct. 8 — Modesto, California — The Fruit Yard Amphitheater
• Oct. 9 — Los Angeles, California — The Novo
• Oct. 10 — Paso Robles, California — Vina Robles Amphitheatre
• Oct. 15 — Rio Rancho, New Mexico — Rio Rancho Events Center
• Oct. 16 — Midland, Texas — The Horseshoe
• Oct. 17 — Corpus Christi, Texas — Concrete Street Amphitheater
• Oct. 28 — Virginia Beach, Virginia — The Dome by Rutter Mills
• Oct. 29 — Richmond, Virginia — Virginia Credit Union LIVE!
• Oct. 30 — Washington, D.C. — The Anthem
• Nov. 5 — New York City, New York — Terminal 5
• Nov. 6 — Wallingford, Connecticut — Toyota Oakdale Theatre
• Nov. 7 — Boston, Massachusetts — Roadrunner
• Nov. 12 — Huntington, West Virginia — Marshall Health Network Arena
• Nov. 13 — Asheville, North Carolina — ExploreAsheville.com Arena
• Nov. 14 — Charleston, South Carolina — Firefly Distillery
• Dec. 3 — Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Paycom Center
• Dec. 4 — Durant, Oklahoma — The Grand Theater
• Dec. 5 — Nacogdoches, Texas — Nacogdoches County Expo & Civic Center

Westbrook spent time on the road supporting Bailey Zimmerman on the Same Night Different Rodeo Tour while also joining select dates of Morgan Wallen's Still The Problem Stadium Tour. He is also scheduled to appear alongside Wallen later this year at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor and Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

Westbrook recently shared an acoustic version of Morgan Wallen's "Drinking Til It Does" ahead of those stadium appearances.

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Outside of touring, the country artist has continued to build his audience through festival appearances at Stagecoach, Windy City Smokeout, Country Concert 2026 and CMC Rocks.

His rapid rise has translated into major streaming success. Westbrook has generated more than 1.5 billion streams globally in less than two years of releasing original music.

The singer also reached a major career milestone with "House Again," which became his first No. 1 song on the Mediabase country chart. The achievement made him the youngest male country artist to earn a solo No. 1 on that chart.

Westbrook followed the success of "House Again" with "Painted You Pretty," the second radio single from his debut album Texas Forever.

Born and raised on a cattle farm in Stephenville, Texas, Westbrook first gained national attention after his song "Take It Slow" went viral on social media. The breakthrough eventually led him to leave Texas Tech University and pursue music full time.

Now, after opening shows for artists including Bailey Zimmerman, Morgan Wallen, George Strait and Miranda Lambert, Westbrook is stepping into the spotlight with his own largest headlining tour to date.

With two sold-out opening nights already on the schedule and first-time headline appearances in some of the country's biggest music markets, the 2026 Hits Me Tour marks another major step in the country singer's fast-growing career.

Related: ’90s Rock Band Announces Exclusive Partnership Amid 2026 Tour

Viva Las Vegas remains one of Elvis Presley’s most beloved films. Released in 1964, the film is remembered equally for its electric dance numbers and the undeniable chemistry between Presley and co-star Ann-Margret. Released at the height of Elvis’ Hollywood career, the musical romance became a defining film for both stars, transforming Ann-Margret from a rising star into one of Hollywood’s most popular leading ladies while creating one of the most memorable on-screen pairings whose chemistry remains unmatched to this day.

How Viva Las Vegas Changed Ann-Margret’s Career @nickycomo

-Ann-Margret hot dance with Elvis Presley in Viva Las Vegas- Ann-Margret se roba el escenario y la película en esta rutina antes de 'C'Mon Everybody' de Elvis Presley. Además de ser el Rey del Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley también fue una auténtica estrella de cine. Después del éxito de su debut en 1956 como Clint Reno en Love Me Tender, sus películas fueron a menudo un asunto de azar. Eso era de esperar cuando las producía en masa a razón de una, dos o incluso tres películas al año, hasta finales de la década de 1960, mientras hacía malabarismos con su carrera musical y un par de años en el Ejército.

♬ sonido original - 🎼🎸❤️F.M.C.🎷🎺🎼

Before being cast opposite Elvis Presley in Viva Las Vegas, Ann-Margret was already gaining attention for her singing, dancing, and film work. The opportunity to star opposite Elvis catapulted her to another level of stardom.

Portraying spirited swimming instructor Rusty Martin, Ann-Margret brought unparalleled confidence and charisma to the screen, matched only by Elvis himself. The actress’ energetic screen presence, athletic dancing, and playful chemistry with Presley made audiences take notice. Ann-Margret wasn’t just Elvis’ co-star—she was his equal.

The film’s unforgettable dance sequences showcased Ann-Margret’s unique ability to combine Broadway-style movement with Hollywood glamour. In particular, the iconic “The Lady Loves Me” number highlighted the chemistry and charisma both stars brought to the screen.

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

The Real-Life Connection Between Elvis and Ann-Margret

Part of the enduring fascination with Viva Las Vegas, and the dance scenes in particular, stems from the genuine affection that developed between the stars during filming. Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret formed a close romantic relationship while making the movie, with friends and colleagues noting how naturally the two connected, sharing similar personalities, humor, and a genuine love of performing.

Their off-screen relationship translated into on-screen gold that audiences could immediately feel, helping propel fascination with the film that continues to this day.

Though the pair’s romance eventually ended, Ann-Margret often spoke warmly about Elvis in interviews, remembering both his gifts as a performer and his importance as a part of her life.

Why Viva Las Vegas Remains a Classic

While Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret never made another film together after Viva Las Vegas, the movie remains a defining work for both performers. Rather than one performer overshadowing the other, each seemed to elevate the other’s performance.

Their natural charisma, legendary dance routines, and undeniable chemistry gave Viva Las Vegas an energy that distinguished it from many of Elvis’ other Hollywood films. The movie established Ann-Margret as a superstar, thanks in part to her ability to go toe-to-toe with the biggest star in the world at the time, Elvis Presley.

Related: 1968 Western With an 11-Minute Intro Was Just Named the Greatest Movie Opening of All Time

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LennyKravitz has an unusual workout staple.

The 62-year-old musician and actor prefers to wear leather pants or jeans while hitting the gym. He told Men’s Healthhis reasoning behind his wardrobe in an article published Tuesday, July 14.

“I perform onstage in leather, denim, whatever, so those are the pants I wear to train,” he said. “It also means I can fit in a workout anytime, anywhere.”

But that’s not all: Kravitz’s pants work as a tool to help him stay in shape.

“I can gauge everything by how I’m in my pants,” the singer revealed. “Like, if my pants are a little tight, I know I’m getting outta’ shape. My friend DenzelWashington gave me this phrase, ‘The pants don’t lie, the pants don’t lie.’”

The “Fly Away” singer shared that he prefers to opt out of many popular workout supplements and additives. He likes to keep it simple.

“All this is natural: no peptides, no human growth hormone, no testosterone,” he said. “There’s nothing wrong if people want to do those things. But there’s an alternative. You can do it naturally with exercise and food. Is it harder? Yes. Does it take more work? Yes. But that’s how I choose to do it, and it’s 100 percent attainable.”

Kravitz shared his workout goals; he doesn’t want to get too “big or bulky.”

“I want a very narrow silhouette, more like Spider-Man meets BruceLee, you know what I mean?” he said. “Bruce Lee looked good in clothes. He’s bad—a thin, cool guy who obviously had muscle tone and who moved and flowed really gracefully.”

As Kravitz gets older, he finds fitness increasingly important.

“You realize as you keep spending time on the planet that aging is not how you thought it would be,” he said. “We’re going forward in time, but at the same time, we’re going back in time, because now I’m in better shape than I was 10 years ago, 20 years ago. Ten years from now, I will be in better shape than I am now.”

If you have ever heard "If You Were A Woman" by the late Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, it may sound familiar.

Many people have noticed how the 1986 Tyler anthem sounds like "You Give Love A Bad Name" by Bon Jovi. Well, both have the same writer and their similarities have caused controversy over the years.

"If You Were A Woman" was written by Demond Child and Jim Steinman. Steinman had heard Child's work and asked him to write a very specific track.

"He asked me to write a song, he said, 'Write me a song that has the verse like Tina Turner, the b section like The Police and the chorus like Bruce Springsteen. Can you do that?' I said, 'Yes I can.' And [he said], 'One more thing – it has to have something to do with androgyny.' That's all he said," Child said, per Music Radar.

But the song wasn't as big of an international hit as Child felt it should be. The track peaked at number 77 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 87 on the Canadian RPM Top Singles chart. So the writer wanted it to have a second life.

"She cut it and it was a big hit in Europe and I think it went all the way to the top in certain territories, but nobody did anything with that here in the United States," he recalls. "And so two years went by and I was kind of disappointed because I knew that was a hit chorus.

"I was sore at the record company for not pushing that song ["If You Were A Woman (And I Was a Man)"], and I said, "I'm going to prove that that song's a hit!" So we wrote it again," he explained.

Child repurposed the anthem for Bon Jovi, with the song originally being called "Shot Through The Heart." He claimed he told the New Jersey rockers that the song's chorus has its origins in a Bonnie Tyler song.

"I said, 'Look I have this song that I wrote for Bonnie Tyler, and I really think the chorus is a hit song,'" Child added. "The Bonnie Tyler kind of had that same [hums synth part from the Bonnie Tyler song] and it was a little bit like "Billie Jean," or Eurythmics ["Sweet Dreams Are Made Of This"] so I said, 'Richie, play this' [Child hums the guitar riff that would feature on You Give Love A Bad Name] and he said, 'No man that's like Michael Jackson, man – we're a rock band.' I said, 'Play it on the guitar and chug it'."

If you don't know these songs, you may recognize the tune from "Kings & Queens" by pop star Ava Max. The recent track samples the tune, although knowing which song sample

"Ava Max and her team of nine writers came up with a song called "Kings & Queens," he explained. "So then they came to me and they asked for an interpolation license "For You Give Love A Bad Name". Because they thought they were different enough. I said, 'No, you've got to listen to the original song –"If You Were A Woman And I Was A Man.  

"I don't know if they'd ever heard the original, but that melody pulled them back to the original and that's the song that was interpolated in Kings & Queens. And my name is on the song as a co-writer."

Bonnie Tyler recently passed away at 75 after undergoing emergency intestinal surgery. Over her career, the songstress has sold millions of records, had 3 Grammy Award nominations and earned an MBE for her services to music.

Related: ‘80s Icons Pay Tribute to Bonnie Tyler: 'One of the Great Voices of Rock'

Released in 1972, "Alone Again (Naturally)" turned a young singer-songwriter into an international star.

Gilbert O'Sullivan was only 22 years old when he wrote the poignant ballad, which became the biggest hit of his career. Topping the Billboard Hot 100 for six consecutive weeks, the song went on to define the soft rock era with its unforgettable melody and emotionally honest lyrics.

"'Alone Again' was written with two other songs in a writing period when I was 22 years of age," O'Sullivan told Songfacts. "I was really pleased with it, happy with it, but I didn't see it as being any more special than other songs. Suffice it to say, I was happy."

The inspiration wasn't as autobiographical as many listeners assumed.

Because the song explores themes of loneliness, heartbreak and loss, many believed O'Sullivan had written it about his own life. The singer-songwriter later explained that the lyrics were fictional, crafted from imagined scenarios rather than personal experience. Even so, the emotional authenticity of the song convinced countless listeners that it came from firsthand pain.

Its gentle arrangement helped amplify that message.

Built around piano, strings and O'Sullivan's understated vocal performance, "Alone Again (Naturally)" paired melancholy subject matter with an elegant pop melody. That balance made the song accessible to both pop and adult contemporary audiences, helping it become one of the defining soft rock ballads of the early 1970s.

The commercial response was extraordinary.

The single reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for six weeks, and also topped the Adult Contemporary chart. It became one of the year's biggest-selling records, earned Grammy nominations for Record of the Year and Song of the Year, and established O'Sullivan as one of the era's most successful singer-songwriters.

"It's good not to know what can be or will be a success," O'Sullivan told The Strange Brew. "What's good to know is that you're happy with what you're writing. You're happy with what you're recording, and the rest is up to whatever happens."

Over the decades, "Alone Again (Naturally)" has continued to find new audiences through film, television and numerous cover versions. Its universal themes and timeless melody have allowed it to transcend generations, while its sophisticated songwriting has earned praise from fellow musicians and critics alike.

Although Gilbert O'Sullivan went on to enjoy additional hits, "Alone Again (Naturally)" remains the song most closely associated with his career. Written at an age when many artists are still finding their voice, it demonstrated a remarkable level of maturity and craftsmanship.

"Writing songs is all I've ever done from the age of 14 and I never lost the joy of that process," O'Sullivan told The Guardian. "Ever since I was a youngster my philosophy was always: 'You might not be as good as you think you are, but thinking you are is good.'"

More than 50 years after its release, "Alone Again (Naturally)" continues to stand as one of soft rock's greatest ballads. What began as a song written by a 22-year-old songwriter has become a timeless anthem whose emotional resonance remains as powerful today as it was in 1972.

Related: 1971 Classic Ballad, Written by a 17-Year-Old, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

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It’s easy to find sandals that look cute, but finding a pair with enough cushioning for a full summer day is another story. Merrell is known for its comfortable sneakers and walking shoes, and now the brand has brought that same cushioned feel to its Fleur Leather Slide Sandals. They’re currently marked down to just $77 from $110 and come in two color combinations, black and stucco or caramel and almond, with sizes ranging from 5 to 11.

The full-grain leather uppers make these look dressier than basic foam slides, and both straps are adjustable, so you can loosen or tighten them for a better fit. The suede-wrapped insoles add a smooth layer, while the foam midsoles provide extra cushioning. They also have durable rubber outsoles for traction, and each sandal weighs 11 ounces.

Fleur Leather Slide Sandals, $77 (was $110) at Merrell

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These sandals are a great option when you want something sturdier than a thin pair of slides but don’t want to default to sneakers with every summer outfit. The cushioned midsoles add extra padding between your feet and the ground, while the chunky bottoms provide a little height without needing to balance in heels. And since both straps are adjustable, you can loosen them on warmer days when your feet may swell or tighten them when you want the sandals to feel more secure.

One shopper said they’re “amazing,” describing them as “super comfortable and very cute" and adding that they wear them every day. They also rated the sandals five out of five stars for comfort and quality, and noted that they’re best for walking and casual use.

Related: Crocs’ $35 Slide Sandals Are Cute Enough for Brunch but Flexible Enough for the Beach

The black and stucco version is especially versatile and could work well with black dresses, linen pants, and matching sets. Its contrasting straps also make the design stand out more than a solid black slide. Alternatively, the caramel and almond option offers a softer look that pairs well with white, light-wash denim, and summery prints. 

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If you’ve been looking for new summer shoes but don’t want to invest in a pair that won’t last, these are the perfect solution. Be sure to grab these full-grain Merrell Fleur Leather Slide Sandals for just $77 while both colors and all sizes are still in stock.

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