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One of the biggest hits of the 1980s in the U.K. was a song from a new wave band called Frankie Goes to Hollywood, a group formed in 1980. The track in question, "Two Tribes," is an anti-war song centered around a continuous bass line and moody vocals. It features lyrics like, "When two tribes go to war/ A point is all you can score."

"Two Tribes" came out on June 4, 1984, as a single and was released as part of the album Welcome to the Pleasuredome later the same year. It was instantly a huge success in the United Kingdom, topping the U.K. Singles chart and holding the position for nine weeks. By the end of the 1980s, "Two Tribes" was still the longest-running No. 1 song of the decade. Even now, "Two Tribes" remains one of the top 50 best-selling songs in U.K. history.

During the song's long chart run, another of Frankie Goes to Hollywood's hits, "Relax," climbed the charts again after being No. 1 for weeks at the start of 1984. It eventually reached No. 2.

Related: ’70s Rock Band Releases 24th Studio Album That Has Critics Calling It a New Golden Age

"Two Tribes" was also a hit in other countries, topping charts in Germany (West Germany at the time), New Zealand, the Netherlands, Ireland, Greece, and Belgium. But even with such extreme success for "Two Tribes" overseas, it didn't exactly translate over to America.

"Two Tribes" charted on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1984, but its peak wasn't even in the Top 40. The highest it got was No. 43. Meanwhile, "Relax" peaked at No. 10 earlier in the year. It's a wonder why "Two Tribes" didn't resonate with American audiences as much as U.K. fans.

But in the end, because of the combo of hits with "Relax" and "Two Tribes," Frankie Goes to Hollywood earned a Grammy nomination in 1985 for Best New Artist.

Related: '80s Rock Icon Says He Would 'Rather Die' Than Reunite With Former Bandmates

Few songs have captured the promise and uncertainty of the American dream as vividly as "Born to Run."

Released in 1975 as the title track from Bruce Springsteen's breakthrough album, the soaring rock epic became the song that introduced "The Boss" to a national audience. Although it stopped short of becoming a major chart smash, its cinematic storytelling, towering production and themes of escape and possibility transformed it into one of the most enduring American anthems in rock history.

The song arrived at a pivotal moment in Springsteen's career.

After two critically acclaimed but commercially modest albums, Springsteen knew his future as a recording artist depended on his next release. He spent months painstakingly crafting "Born to Run," determined to create a song that captured the excitement of classic rock while telling a deeply personal story about young people yearning for something more.

"I had these enormous ambitions," Springsteen later told Rolling Stone. "I wanted to make the greatest rock record that I'd ever heard. I wanted it to sound enormous, to grab you by your throat and insist that you take that ride, insist that you pay attention – not just to the music, but to life, to being alive."

The gamble paid off.

Released as the lead single from Born to Run, the song reached the Billboard Hot 100 and helped propel the album into the Top 10, turning Springsteen into one of rock's brightest new stars. Its emotional intensity, Phil Spector-inspired "Wall of Sound" production and unforgettable saxophone work from Clarence Clemons made it unlike anything else on the radio.

More importantly, "Born to Run" became something bigger than a hit single. Its lyrics about chasing freedom, leaving the past behind and believing in the possibility of a better future resonated with listeners across generations. Rather than celebrating America uncritically, the song embraced the hope, resilience and restless optimism that have long been central to the country's cultural identity.

Over the decades, "Born to Run" has remained the centerpiece of Springsteen's live performances, often serving as the emotional climax of his concerts. It has appeared on countless lists of the greatest rock songs ever recorded and continues to inspire artists across rock, country and Americana, while its opening guitar riff remains instantly recognizable to fans around the world.

"You can change someone's life in three minutes with the right song," Springsteen told The Guardian. "I still believe that to this day. You can bend the course of their development, what they think is important, of how vital and alive they feel. You can contextualize very, very difficult experiences. Songs are pretty good at that."

More than 50 years after its release, "Born to Run" still speaks to anyone chasing a dream just beyond the horizon. What began as Bruce Springsteen's breakthrough recording has become one of the defining American rock anthems of all time, proving that its message of hope and possibility never goes out of style.

Related: 1976 Rock Classic, Reimagined 48 Years Later, Became a Fourth of July Anthem

Scott Hamilton, 67, is one of the most recognizable figure skaters in history. Known for his athletic style, inventive performances, and signature backflip, Hamilton became an international sensation after winning the men's singles gold medal at the 1984 Winter Olympics. He later founded the Stars on Ice tour and remains one of the sport's most respected television commentators and analysts. Now, the revered athlete is turning the spotlight on himself, naming what he considers the greatest performance of his career.

Hamilton retired from amateur skating in 1984 and from professional skating in 2001, but he remains one of the biggest personalities in figure skating thanks to his television work and social media presence. In a post shared on his social media platforms, Hamilton revisited his iconic "Walk This Way" performance for Stars on Ice, writing, "There are nights you never forget, and this was one of them. Walk This Way was the most fun I've ever had on the ice, and honestly, it may have been the greatest night of skating in my career. Sometimes the best performances happen when you let go, trust the moment, and simply enjoy the ride."

There are nights you never forget, and this was one of them. Walk This Way was the most fun I’ve ever had on the ice, and honestly, it may have been the greatest night of skating in my career. Sometimes the best performances happen when you let go, trust the moment, and simply enjoy the ride. Watch me react to this unforgettable performance on my YouTube channel.

Throughout his skating career, Hamilton became known for his energetic, highly athletic performances, often embracing characters, creative costumes, and memorable props to create legendary crowd-pleasing routines.

Hamilton's "Walk This Way," originally created as an ISU short program, evolved into what he described as a "pure audience number," featuring a series of hilarious walks—from the moonwalk to a Mick Jagger-inspired strut—that helped create what he now calls the greatest night of skating in his career.

Related: Thylane Blondeau, the 'Most Beautiful Girl in the World,' Wows at Her Romantic Paris Wedding

For many fans, Hamilton's performances transcended sports and became family traditions. He offered entertainment that parents and children could enjoy together. For those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s and are now parents themselves, Scott Hamilton's performances serve as a photo album of childhood memories.

Fans can recall routines like "Walk This Way" and his unforgettable performance to "Hair"—complete with a massive wig—as snapshots of life before social media and streaming made entertainment instantly accessible. An everyman with exceptional athleticism who brought warmth and personality to a sport often known for its stoicism, Scott Hamilton became more than an athlete—he became an ambassador of joy.

"all of my family skipped everything to watch this together," commented one fan on the athlete's TikTok account.

Another added, "Sir you were amazing to watch on that ice. So glad I grew up watching you."

Hearing Hamilton reflect on his iconic performances, including his beloved "Walk This Way" routine, underscores how much genuine joy he brought to the ice. His enthusiasm was unmistakable, and audiences felt it with every performance.

Hamilton won one Olympic gold medal, four World Championship titles, and four U.S. national championships, completing one of the most dominant careers in modern men's figure skating. He is also a cancer survivor, author, and advocate who founded the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation, which supports research into less toxic cancer treatments while educating and mentoring patients and their families.

Accolades aside, Scott Hamilton's exuberance on the ice brought happiness and inspiration to generations of children and their families through unforgettable routines like "Walk This Way"—a performance that may ultimately stand as his greatest achievement of all.

Related: Steve Jobs’ Daughter, 27, Stuns in Just-Released Wedding Photo: ‘Absolutely Radiant’

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A solar wind chime is a stylish — and musical — way to add some ambient lighting to your outdoor space. They not only help illuminate your backyard or patios, but they also add a pretty decorative touch. Right now, Walmart is offering a can't-miss flash deal on one of its bestselling options, the Qishi Solar Hummingbird Wind Chime. 

Originally $20, the beautiful LED wind chime is now on sale for just $11. It comes in nine different shapes and themes. In addition to the hummingbird option (our personal favorite!) there are several other styles — including angels, butterflies, and crystal balls — all discounted to $11.  

Courtesy of Walmart

These "lovely" wind chimes provide a magical glow that lights up your outdoor space, shining a variety of colorful hues at night. Powered by solar energy, they charge up during the day and automatically turn on once it gets dark. You can hang them anywhere you want to create a whimsical atmosphere, from gardens and porches to windows and doors. They're rainproof, moisture-proof, and easy to hang, making them a cinch to move around indoors or outdoors.

In addition to providing some ambiance for your space, these light-up wind chimes also make great gifts for all types of occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. "These wind chimes are so cute," one shopper wrote. "I had to order myself one after I received the one I bought for my mother. They look awesome lit up at night."

Reviewers were impressed by how bright the solar lights are both day and night One shopper said they're "so colorful and fun to watch," while another noted the wind chime "lights up beautifully in my garden."

Many also took note of the wind chime's durability. One reviewer shared that they'd held up wonderfully after over a year of use. "We have high winds, and they survive," the reviewer commented. The hummingbirds are truly beautiful when lit up at night." 

Related: Dolly Parton's 'Pretty' $14 Scalloped Stoneware Pie Dish Radiates Country Kitchen Charm

Add a pop of color to your outdoor space, and snag this colorful solar light wind chime while it's still $11 at Walmart. The bestseller may not last long at such a great price!

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Alkaline Trio fans received disappointing news on Friday after the band abruptly pulled the plug on the remainder of its 2026 European tour due to frontman Matt Skiba's health.

Just hours before the group's scheduled performance in Birmingham, England, the punk rock veterans announced they would no longer be able to continue the run.

"We are immensely sorry, but we must cancel our dates in England," the band wrote in a statement shared on their Instagram, adding that the decision was made because of "medical issues Matt has been suffering from that have worsened."

While the group didn't specify what those medical issues were, they reassured fans that, "He’s gonna be okay but needs to be treated stateside as soon as possible. We will be back healthier and stronger."

The update came just one week after Skiba, 50, revealed he'd been injured in a motorcycle accident before leaving Los Angeles for Europe. Sharing a photo of his injured leg on Instagram, the singer wrote, "Elevating and hydrating as best as possible for today’s show @vainstream_rockfest party people. Jacked up but hoping to play on my feet today. Fingers crossed."

READ MORE: Beloved Pop Star Says He’s ‘Physically Unable to Perform’ After Illness, Cancels Show

He continued, "Had a lil motorbike crash before leaving Los Angeles for Europa. I’m gonna do my best."

Although the band never confirmed whether the crash was connected to the worsening medical issues, many fans speculated the two could be related.  And many also expressed frustration about the short notice of the announcement.

“A bit more notice next time please, we have been travelling for an hour to the show and only just finding out by happening to have Instagram open isn't ideal,” one said.

Another replied, “But I've just traveled to Birmingham & paid for a hotel - could this have been decided & shared sooner??”

Skiba has since shared a brief update of his own, thanking fans for their support while explaining why he couldn't continue touring. Speaking from London's Heathrow Airport before returning to the U.S., he said in an Instagram video that fans "deserve a better show than I can throw right now," revealing that he had lost feeling in his hands and feet and was also struggling with his voice. Despite the frightening symptoms, he reassured supporters, "I'm OK," adding that he'll head home to get checked out before returning to the stage "as soon as we can."

The cancellation also affected fellow musicians on the tour. Anthony Green, who had been scheduled to perform alongside Alkaline Trio, shared a message of support on Instagram. "TO OUR UK FRIENDS," he began. "Sending all our love and support to Matt and Alkaline Trio. Wishing him a steady and swift recovery."

Green added that his band still planned to perform in Birmingham while they worked to determine the rest of the week's schedule.

Related: ‘80s Metal Legend Falls Off Stage Mid-Show

Emilie Kiseris experiencing one of life’s biggest joys yet again.

After a year of heartbreak and grief after losing her 3-year-old son Trigg in a drowning accident, the 27-year-old influencer announced Friday, July 3, that she and her husband, Brady Kiser, are expecting their third child together. The couple is also parents to 15-month-old son Teddy. "We are so grateful and excited to share that we will be welcoming another baby into our family," Emilie wrote in an Instagram announcement on Friday, July 3. "This news feels very surreal and has already been such a bright light to us during some of our darkest days."

Emilie, who has over 5.2 million followers on TikTok and 2.1 million on Instagram, also made it clear that she plans to be more protective of this pregnancy and the next chapter for her family.

"As I stated last year, my family's privacy will always be my priority. Because of that, I'm not sure how much I will be sharing about this pregnancy and next phase of life, but I appreciate your understanding as I navigate those boundaries," she added in her pregnancy announcement.

Still, she said the baby has already brought light back into their home after an incredibly painful year as the couple mourned their son's untimely death. "This baby has already brought so much hope and joy into our home, and we are treasuring every moment of it together. Thank you in advance for all of the love, well wishes, and support as we navigate this next chapter of our growing family. Love you, guys."

The announcement comes just over a year after Trigg's death. He was hospitalized after falling into the family's backyard pool in Arizona on May 12, 2025, and died six days later, on May 18, as reported by NBC News. During the June 17, 2026, episode of Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast, Emilie gave her first interview since her son’s death and reflected on the painful year that followed. "Losing a child really shows you in the scariest, most real way possible just how quickly life can change, and how quickly life can be literally taken away," she told Shetty.

Emilie also opened up about how she and Brady rebuilt their relationship after the tragedy.  She admitted she had "felt so angry at him" early in her grief and wondered whether their marriage would survive, before coming to a difficult realization. "This could have just as easily been me in Brady's position. Brady was taking care of our newborn child. When I left for dinner that night, he was de-thawing my breast milk, trying to get Teddy settled," she shared.

Emilie and Brady welcomed Trigg in July 2021, sharing the news with a heartfelt post. "Trigg Chapman Kiser II," she wrote at the time. "07-14-21 at 9:04 pm. 6 pounds 5 ounces. We are smitten with all his tiny features and love him so much."

Following Trigg's death, Chandler, Arizona, police confirmed he had been pulled unconscious from the family's backyard pool, as per USA Today. Prosecutors ultimately determined there was "no likelihood of conviction" against Brady and released an official statement on July 25, 2025. A few weeks later, on August 28, 2025, Emilie took to Instagram to break her silence and speak publicly for the first time.

"I take full accountability as Trigg's mother, and I know I should have done more to protect him," she wrote. "One of the hardest lessons I carry is that a permanent pool fence could have saved his life, and it's something I will never overlook again. I hope amidst this pain, Trigg's story will help prevent other children and families from suffering the same loss."

Now, as she and Brady prepare to welcome their third child, Emilie continues to lean on the tools that have helped her through the past year.  "I feel so much better going into my day," she said of therapy in a TikTok video shared on September 28, 2025.

The Beatles really hit it big in the early '60s, and their clean-cut, heartthrob persona defined them. By the time 1965's Rubber Soul came out, the band members had grown past their pop persona.

“We got involved completely in ourselves then. I think it was Rubber Soul when we did all our own numbers," John Lennon said in a 1968 Rolling Stone interview. “Something just happened. We controlled it a bit. Whatever it was we were putting over, we just tried to control it a bit.”

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In the years that followed, their attempts to push the envelope historically worked in their favor. In 1967, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band spent 27 weeks at the top of the UK charts, took home four Grammy Awards, and became The Beatles' best-selling studio album.

But somewhere in between, in 1966, the group produced the album Yesterday and Today. It was an amalgamation of songs from recent Beatles LPs that hadn't yet debuted in America, including "Yesterday," "Drive My Car," and "Nowhere Man." Through Capitol Records, the group released a cover now known as the "Butcher Cover," featuring the four members in butcher coats surrounded by severed baby-doll heads and pieces of meat.

Related: Mick Jagger Teamed up With This Legendary Beatle for the New Rolling Stones Album

Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

There are several standing theories as to why they chose this controversial cover.

“1966 was the year the world was made aware of John Lennon’s famous comments about Christianity and the year they were chased out of the Philippines for apparently 'snubbing' a garden party hosted by Imelda Marcos, the first lady," Liverpool writer Dale Roberts once said. "This is the year they began to move away from the famous Mop Tops and the year that John Lennon met Yoko Ono. The Beatles in 1966 were not far away from controversy; the Butcher cover was one part of it."

“One theory is that it was a statement against Capitol Records 'butchering' the British album releases for profit," he continued. "Typically, Capitol would receive The Beatles' UK album releases and hold back tracks for future US releases and mix them with A- and B-side singles to spread them out over more albums to make more profit."

Related: 1964 The Beatles’ Missing Television Performance Footage Found

Another theory emerged around something photographer Robert Whitaker, who shot the album, had once said about the concept. He insisted it was his idea for a conceptual art piece to humanize The Beatles, taking them out of "God-like" status.

Lennon himself seemed to confirm that theory. The writer claims he once said they were "inspired by our boredom and resentment at having to do another photo session and another Beatles thing. We were sick to death of it.”

The album was reissued after a few hundred copies circulated, and a much more familiar, clean-cut image replaced it. Depending on the condition of the album, it is estimated to be worth between $10,000 and $12,000 today.

Taylor Swift fans were focused on what many believe is her wedding weekend with Travis Kelce, but an unexpected White House post sent social media in a completely different direction.

Ahead of Independence Day, the White House shared two posts that have raised some eyebrows. One graphic was shared to Instagram featuring President Donald Trumpon a version of Swift’s Eras Tour poster, alongside the caption "It's been a long time coming,” (which is also a Swift lyric from the song “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince”).

READ MORE: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Ditched Tradition With Their Unconventional Bridal Party

The second was a TikTok set to the same song featuring a countdown clock much like the one used at the opening of Swift’s Eras Tour, which transitioned into moments throughout Trump’s presidency and imagery from America’s history. The caption read “Welcome to America’s eras tour 🇺🇸.”

While much of the backlash was initially directed at the White House, some fans have turned their attention to Swift herself, wondering why the post remained online for over 18 hours when she has openly endorsed democratic candidates in the past.

“Oh I KNOW Taylor’s gonna be pissed,” one person wrote in the comments of the TikTok.

Another replied, “‘Taylor’s gonna be pissed’ really? Where was she the 3 other times they used her music? Hmm?”

One user on Threads wrote, “Nobody is saying she gave permission, but the fact that she hasn’t denounced it, or that she hasn’t sent her lawyers after it SPEAKS FOR ITSELF.”

Many defended the pop star, noting that she’s busy with her rumored wedding weekend.

“Gurl - she’s in the middle of her wedding reception and if you actually think she approves man you’re deranged,” another Threads user pointed out.

Another commented on TikTok, “She’s getting married tomorrow, that’s the only thing that should be on her mind .”

After largely avoiding political endorsements early in her career, Swift publicly backed Democratic candidates in Tennessee's 2018 midterm elections before endorsing Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in subsequent presidential races.

Speaking in her 2020 documentary Miss Americana, Swift explained why she ultimately decided to become more politically outspoken. "Back in the [2016] presidential election, I was in such a horrendous place that I wasn't going to pop my head out," she said. She later added, "I need to be on the right side of history."

As of writing, both posts remain live, and neither Swift nor anyone on her behalf has spoken out.

Related: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Ditched Tradition With Their Unconventional Bridal Party

Heartbreak has always been one of James Taylor's greatest songwriting subjects.

That was especially true on "Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight," the tender ballad he released in 1972 on his landmark album One Man Dog. With its understated arrangement and quietly devastating lyrics, the song became one of Taylor's most beloved recordings and a defining soft rock favorite. Nearly 30 years later, he gave it new life by re-recording it with acclaimed saxophonist Michael Brecker.

The original highlighted Taylor's remarkable ability to find beauty in vulnerability.

Written solely by Taylor, "Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight" explores the emotional uncertainty of a relationship on the verge of ending. Rather than relying on dramatic declarations, the song unfolds through gentle acoustic guitar, understated vocals and deeply personal lyrics, qualities that helped establish Taylor as one of the era's most respected singer-songwriters.

"Because of 'Fire and Rain,' mostly, and 'Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight,' I was sort of cast as somebody who was troubled or hurting," Taylor later told American Songwriter. "But it'’'s not really the case. My instinct is to humor and to ecstasy and to bliss."

Although it was never among his biggest chart hits, the ballad steadily grew into one of the cornerstones of his catalog. It became a favorite of adult contemporary and soft rock radio while earning admiration from fellow musicians, many of whom have recorded their own interpretations over the years.

"'Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight' has probably been covered more than any other song of mine," Taylor told Songwriting Magazine. "It's a simple song and a very relatable message."

In 2001, Taylor revisited the song when he reconnected with Grammy-winning saxophonist Michael Brecker to record a new version for Brecker's album Nearness of You: The Ballad Book. The collaboration was a natural and easy one, as the pair had worked together on the original.

"On the album One Man Parade, [Michael Brecker] played that beautiful solo on 'Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight,'" Taylor said in a 2023 interview. "So we had a musical connection for many years, and I would often ask him to come in and overdub three or four different parts."

The new version of the song paired Taylor's familiar vocal with Brecker's expressive tenor saxophone, giving the classic ballad a richer jazz-influenced texture while preserving its intimate emotional core.

The reinterpretation introduced the song to new listeners while reminding longtime fans why it had endured for decades. Brecker's lyrical playing complemented Taylor's understated delivery, creating a fresh perspective on a song that had already become a modern standard.

Over the years, "Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight" has remained one of Taylor’s signature compositions. Its timeless melody and universal themes of longing and vulnerability have ensured its place among the defining soft rock ballads of the 1970s.

More than 50 years after its original release, "Don’' Let Me Be Lonely Tonight" continues to resonate with listeners around the world. Reimagined with Michael Brecker nearly three decades later, the classic ballad stands as a testament to the enduring power of James Taylor's songwriting.

Related: 1976 Rock Classic, Reimagined 48 Years Later, Became a Fourth of July Anthem

As the song goes, "Ziggy played guitar..."

And then, in 1973, he stopped. But David Bowie's career carried on for decades thereafter.

To explain: Friday, July 3 marks 53 years since Bowie performed his final concert as his infamous alter ego, Ziggy Stardust.

Fans, bandmates and the rest of the civilization certainly didn't see it coming, according to reports from the early 1970s...

After 182 Ziggy Stardust concert performances, Bowie — who died a decade ago at age 69 — announced he was about to retire from live performing, but with a twist. The Ziggy stage persona was actually taking its bow, and not Bowie himself.

Only his guitarist Mick Ronson reportedly knew about the announcement, which came as a complete shock not only to the audience but the rest of Bowie's band and crew.

According to Rolling Stone, the creation of Ziggy dates back to the 1960s when Bowie met British rocker Vince Taylor, who had apparently "joined a cult and decided he was an alien god on Earth."

Bowie’s fascination with space travel and science fiction had already surfaced in such songs as “Space Oddity," and began developing a character based on Taylor plus other eccentrics like Texas “psychobilly” singer Legendary Stardust Cowboy, per Rolling Stone.

Bowie dubbed the end result “Ziggy Stardust," with the first name reportedly taken from a tailor’s shop that he saw from a train. The concept of Ziggy ultimately became an omnisexual alien rock star, sent to planet Earth as a messenger.

Last month, Parade reported on Bowie's song "Heroes," often considered a masterpiece by his fans — though it underperformed on the charts at the time of its initial release in 1977.

"Heroes" was the first single from Bowie’s album of the same name, but the song ultimately failed to break through on the Billboard Hot 100, believe it or not. Find out more here.

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If your home feels unbearable the second a heat wave hits, the DuraComfort Ashrae Portable Air Conditioner is a flash deal worth checking out before the next stretch of hot days. The bestselling unit is now on sale at Walmart for just $184, down from $310. It sits on the floor and vents through a window, so it’s perfect if you rent, move often, or only need extra cooling during the hottest months of the year.

The portable air conditioner offers cooling, fan, and dehumidifier functions, so it can help with both sticky summer air and humidity. It has two fan speeds, a remote control, sleep mode, a 24-hour timer, and a washable filter. It comes with an adjustable exhaust hose, window kit, foam seal, hose inlet, hose outlet, and a battery-powered remote control. It also boasts a 50-decibel rating, so it ticks the boxes of being both powerful and quiet.

Courtesy of Walmart

A portable AC is one of the easiest ways to make summer feel more manageable, especially when fans are just moving warm air around. This one is especially useful for bedrooms because hot, humid rooms can make it harder to sleep. It can also come in handy in a home office, guest room, or any space that gets warmer than the rest of the house. The dehumidifier function is another perk, since muggy air can make a room feel much hotter than the thermostat reading.

Shoppers have called it "one of the best AC units," noting that "it cools everything so quickly" and pushes out "very cold" air. "This is truly a lifesaver," one reviewer wrote. Another said it "works very well, is easy to install, not noisy, and the air humidifier is spectacular."

Many similar units cost closer to $300 or more, depending on the brand and cooling capacity. At $184, this one offers more than just a basic fan, with cooling and dehumidifying functions in a single unit. When the air feels heavy and damp, having a machine that can also help reduce humidity can make the room feel much more comfortable.

• Shark FlexBreeze HydroGo Misting Fan, $80 (was $150) at Walmart
• Frigidaire Portable Air Conditioner, $288 (was $339) at Walmart
• Beeprincess 10-Piece Cooling Towel Set, $15 (was $26) at Walmart

Related: Frigidaire’s Bestselling Window Unit AC Is Under $200 at Walmart Ahead of a Record-Breaking Heat Wave

If you’ve been trying to get through hot days with a fan alone, now is a good time to grab the DuraComfort Ashrae Portable Air Conditioner while it’s still marked down. Be sure to shop it while the flash deal is still live, because this is definitely the type of summer buy you’ll want before the next heat wave arrives.

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Few patriotic songs have endured as long or meant as much to Americans as "My Country 'Tis of Thee." For Tim McGraw, its staying power isn't just about tradition. It's about the ideals the song continues to represent, nearly two centuries after it was written.

In the book "Songs of America: Patriotism, Protest, and the Music That Made a Nation, which McGraw co-authored with historian Jon Meacham, McGraw calls the hymn the "hallmark of truly great art" because of how it has evolved alongside the country itself.

Related: One of Country Music’s Biggest Crossover Hits Is Climbing the Charts Again 46 Years Later

"This song spoke to the evolution of our country in that moment, the Age of Jackson, and it's evolved with our country through the years, and that durability and resonance is one hallmark of truly great art," he writes.

McGraw also points to the song's remarkable versatility. Heard simply on a piano, he says, it "feels like a hymn, something I might've sung in church as a boy." Performed with a full orchestra, however, it becomes "regal and majestic, a song worthy of presidential inaugurations."

That adaptability, he argues, helps explain why the song has remained meaningful for generations.

Related: Iconic ’70s Country-Rock Band Is Climbing the Charts Again 67 Years After Forming

Originally written by Samuel Francis Smith in 1831 while he was a student at Andover Theological Seminary in Massachusetts, "My Country 'Tis of Thee" borrowed the melody of the British anthem "God Save the King." Rather than celebrating a monarch, Smith transformed the familiar tune into a distinctly American hymn centered on liberty and national identity.

Related: Country Star Breaks 49-Year-Old Billboard Record With No. 1 Hit Song

As McGraw explains, Americans have long repurposed familiar music to reflect their own time and circumstances.

"We do it because it works," he writes. "Listeners, almost unknowingly, recognize an emotion from the past while clinging to the modern message."

The song quickly became woven into American life. It was sung at Fourth of July celebrations, presidential inaugurations and public ceremonies across the country. Over time, its lyrics also took on new meanings during pivotal moments in U.S. history.

Abolitionists even created alternate versions condemning slavery before the Civil War, while the original hymn was reportedly sung by newly emancipated people after the Emancipation Proclamation. More than a century later, Martin Luther King Jr. famously concluded his 1963 "I Have a Dream" speech by invoking its enduring refrain: "Let freedom ring."

Related: One of Country Music’s Most Emotional Voices Turns 67 Today

For McGraw, those moments demonstrate why the song has remained relevant for nearly 200 years.

"Samuel Francis Smith took things to an even higher level by appropriating 'God Save the King' for American hearts and voices," he writes. "'My Country 'Tis of Thee' was really about putting not a monarch but the nation itself, and the ideas on which it's founded and with which it endures, at the center of our imaginative lives."

He concludes that the song's greatest strength isn't simply patriotism. It's its ability to remind Americans of the ideals they continue striving toward.

"What we say as a people, and what we sing as a people, matters, for even if we fall short of the ideal, we've got to keep that ideal in front of us, like a beacon through the darkness," McGraw writes. "'My Country 'Tis of Thee' is one of those beacons."

McGraw's reflections arrive as patriotic music once again takes center stage during this year's 250th Independence Day celebrations. The country star is among the performers scheduled to appear during Disney's live Disney Celebrates America: Nashville's Star-Spangled Bash on July 4, joining artists including Reba McEntire, Boyz II Men, Nick Jonas, Little Big Town and Brothers Osborne. The three-hour special airs from 8 to 11 p.m. ET across ABC, Disney+, Hulu, Freeform, FX, National Geographic and the ESPN App.

Related: Country Superstar Announces Massive 2026 Tour With Very Special Guests

Sixty-three years ago, iconic rock and roll band The Rolling Stones released "Come On"—their debut single that remains memorable today despite having zero history on the Billboard charts.

Initially released in the U.K. on June 7, 1963, "Come On" marked the Stones' first standalone release. The track, which was a cover of Chuck Berry's 1961 song, was never featured on an official studio album. Backing the track was a cover of Muddy Waters's "I Want to Be Loved" on the B-side—two legendary covers that helped establish the first semblances of the band's signature sound.

Because "Come On" was never issued as a single in the U.S., it never saw the light of day on the Billboard charts. However, the song did reach No. 21 on the U.K. Singles Chart, which was an impressive feat for a debut release. While the track wasn't a massive success right off the bat, after the Stones experienced massive commercial growth in the early '70s with the arrival of their landmark album Sticky Fingers, their earlier catalog began receiving renewed attention.

Michael Putland/Getty Images

Today, the song has persevered into the digital landscape, racking up 5.3 million streams on Spotify. "Come On" remains a beloved Stones deep cut, continuing to be featured on rock-oriented radio stations globally.

Produced by Andrew Loog Oldham through Decca Records, "Come On" is recognizable for its up-tempo rock sound—a stark contrast to Berry's original, which took on a much steadier tempo. The Stones utilized Keith Richards' off-beat guitar and wailing harmonica work by Brian Jones to create an earworm instrumentation. Paired with Mick Jagger's vocals and driving backing harmonies, the song defined their early era, though the lead singer has since opened up about hating the track.

In a 1974 interview with Rolling Stone, Jagger reflected on the debut, not understanding how it charted in the U.K. to begin with.

"It was our decision to record it. Nobody else knew it and to the best of our knowledge nobody had done it. I don't think it was very good, in fact it was shit... It really was shit," he said. God knows how it ever got in the charts, it was such a hype. In fact we disliked it so much we didn't do it on any of our gigs... Eventually we did it in the ballrooms and the people seemed to dig it."

Despite his distain for the song, it still remains a beloved deep cut among the Rolling Stones fanbase.

Related: 1976 Rock Classic, Named No. 1 Hit Song, Became a Timeless Road Trip Anthem

Martha Stewart has "always been that girl," as she shares a throwback photo of herself from 1976 that's just as in style today as it was back then.

Right before the 4th of July festivities over the weekend, Stewart's official Instagram page posted a photo of the 84-year-old lifestyle icon when she was roughly in her early 30s. Clad in round sunglasses, a denim halter-neck romper, and a striped 3/4 sleeve length shirt, Stewart exudes summer chic. Not to mention that her actually holding a small basket full of fresh eggs is the ultimate accessory.

The photo has the right amount of countryside charm and fashion of the era that's considered timeless. They captioned the Instagram post by saying, "Let this 1976 snapshot of Martha in Westport, Connecticut serve as your ultimate summer inspiration."

"Captured on the grounds of Turkey Hill, this farmstead property served as an incubator to many of our founder’s ideas and ventures, like starting her expansive all-season gardens to serving as the setting of her first book, Entertaining. And as for Martha’s well-known love for picking farm fresh eggs? Well, it’s *always* been a good thing."

The post has sparked multiple comments from fans inspired by her ensemble and the overall legacy that pushed her beyond a business woman and influencer.

"I saw Martha Stewart wearing a denim romper over a striped scooped neck top, so I bought a denim romper and a striped scooped neck top," said one fan.

"Martha invented hot girl summer," said another.

One fan added, "You were way ahead of your time. The OG influencer," while others simply called Stewart "iconic." The post was more than a simple throwback, with the caption putting the spotlight on the Turkey Hill farmstead property that would become the backbone of her 1982 cookbook Entertaining.

In the late 60's, Stewart had a second career as a stockbroker like her father-in-law, while she and her ex-husband, Andrew Stewart, moved to Westport, Connecticut. There, they bought and restored the 1805 farmhouse that became the model for the TV studio of Martha Stewart Living.

By 1976, Stewart started her catering business in her basement with a friend from her modeling days. Their business quickly became successful, but due to tensions, Stewart bought out her portion of the business. The rest was history as Stewart's career expanded into a media franchise spanning television, magazines, and home products.

Related: The White House’s Latest Post Leaves Americans Feeling ‘Embarrassed’: ‘Is This Rage Bait?’

It's one of the biggest songs in the history of classic rock, but the significance of "Free Bird" has evolved far beyond its original meaning.

The iconic Lynyrd Skynyrd track released in 1973 as part of the band's debut album (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd). With lyrics mostly written by lead singer Ronnie Van Zant and music by guitarist Allen Collins, "Free Bird" started out as a simple song about a man leaving a woman, wanting to stay untethered and "free as a bird."

"It was a simple love song about leaving a girl and being a free bird — like, you gotta wander," Gary Rossington explained in 2012, according to Music Radar. But over the years, the song has taken on a life of its own.

"Free Bird" is now heavily associated with American pride and patriotism, and it often shows up on music roundups of patriotic rock anthems and popular Fourth of July playlists. It has even become something of a de facto anthem for American sports in recent years.

Since its 1973 release, “Free Bird” has taken on deeper meaning following the 1977 plane crash that killed original band members Ronnie Van Zant and Steve Gaines. In the decades since, it has come to be seen by many fans as an emotional tribute during live performances, often drawing a powerful reaction from audiences.

"This kid was telling me that they used it for their graduation song and not too long ago somebody told me that they used it at a funeral," the band's current lead vocalist Johnny Van Zant said in 2010, according to American Songwriter. "And really it's a love song. It's one of the few that Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ever had,” he said.

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In July 2025, Ultimate Classic Rock named "Free Bird" as the "Top American Rock Song" of all time. The site also ranked the iconic track at No. 7 on its 2026 list of the Top 250 Songs That Define American Culture.

Related: 1984 Timeless Country Ballad, One of the Most Famous Songs About America, Became a No. 1 Hit 36 Years Later

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Summertime often means your clothing takes a beating: you get sweaty out in the heat, splash around in the waves at the beach, get muddy on hiking trails or while playing with your dog at the dog park. For quality you can count on to last, Columbia has built a reputation on comfortable, durable pieces meant to hold up season after season. It's my go-to retailer for reliable clothes that can handle everything I put them through without falling apart after a single summer of wear. 

The most affordable way to snag Columbia gear is to catch a sale, and right now, the brand's 4th of July event has a ton of summer-ready pieces marked down. One fan-favorite, the Sandy River Shorts II, is currently discounted up to 40% off the usual $45 price tag. Available in sizes XS through XXL as well as plus sizes 1X through 3X, you can shop them in gray, navy, khaki, purple, teal, red, and pink for $27, while green and black are just a few dollars more, priced at $33. 

Courtesy of Columbia

I wear a lot of Columbia clothing in the summer. Because I sunburn easily, I rely on many of the brand's pieces with built-in sun protection to keep covered while at the beach, out on the water, and on camping trips. My favorite pair of Columbia shorts is about five years old now, and while that exact style is no longer available, these river shorts are incredibly similar, made with the same water-repellent, UPF 30 fabric and elastic-waist design (with pockets!) that I love to slip on for summer activities.

Over 800 shoppers have added these shorts to their carts in the last week, and it's easy to see why. The 5-inch inseam offers enough coverage that you won't feel too exposed but can still keep cool. Inside the elastic waistband, there's a hidden adjustable drawcord for a comfortable, secure fit. In addition to the roomy side pockets, there's also a convenient zipper pocket on the back of these shorts. 

By far the most commented-upon feature of these shorts is the "quick-drying and lightweight" fabric. "From mowing grass in hot weather to spending the day at theme parks, these shorts are great for everything outdoors," one reviewer raved. Many shoppers said they have purchased these "super comfortable" shorts in multiple colors.

• Chill River Midi Dress, $45 (was $90) at Columbia
• Konos Esla Sandal, $49 (was $65) at Columbia
• Echo Mountain Hip Pack, $34 (was $45) at Columbia

Related: REI’s Retro Cooling Neck Wrap Offers 'Relief in Extreme Heat' for Under $10

Perfect for every summer adventure, it's hard to go wrong with a pair of Columbia shorts. Hurry and add the Sandy River Shorts II to your cart at Columbia to secure this 40%-off deal while you still can!

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During a press conference in Rio de Janeiro to promote Disney’s upcoming Moanalive-action remake, Dwayne Johnson confirmed that Moana 3 is in the works.

“Yes, we have talked about Moana 3, yes,” Johnson said. “But first, live-action Moana, we'll let that come out first. We have [the] amazing Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, who have been our writers ... they will pen Moana 3.”

Bush has served as the writer for blockbuster Disney movies like Zootopia and Encanto. He was the sole writer on the first Moana film, while Ledoux Miller joined him on Moana 2 and the upcoming live-action remake.

When People posted the announcement on Instagram, disappointed fans quickly flocked to their comment section.

“So much for [Johnson] saying he wanted to only do original stories from now on,” one user commented.

“But.... the second one was bad? Like really bad?” Another said.

One user commented with just two words: “Dwayne, stop.”

However, some have expressed excitement for the third movie, with one user saying she’s happy to see Disney continue their Pacific Islander representation.

“I hope Disney continues to do this with all ethnic backgrounds, and we can get more inclusivity,” she said.

The live-action remake of Moana is set to release in theaters on July 10.  Directed by Thomas Kail and written by Bush and Miller, the film stars Johnson as Maui alongside Catherine Laga’aia as Moana. A new song written by Lin-Manuel Miranda will be in the film, featuring the voices of both Laga'aia and Auli’i Cravalho — Moana's original voice actor. Johnson said he was pushing for the song to be in the new movie.

“There’s a part in the film that I thought, ‘Oh, it could go in there,’” Johnson said in an interview with Billboard. “But we can hear a little bit of almost like the instrumental inside the film, which will lead us to the end. I love the song, and I love this idea that … O.G. Moana and Maui, we’re gonna meet you along the way, but this is your journey, and we got you.”

Watch the trailer for the live-action remake below.

Back to the Future is considered by many to be one of the defining films of the 1980s. The blockbuster film kick-started the career of Family Ties star Michael J. Fox and spawned two successful sequels. However, while stars Lea Thompson, Christopher Lloyd, Thomas F. Wilson, and Fox have all talked fondly about the experience of making the film, they've also been blunt about its troubles.

Co-creator Bob Gale and director Robert Zemeckis have often spoken about the 40 times that Back to the Future was infamously rejected before Universal Studios greenlit it. Ironically, it was Steven Spielberg who had been the only one who wanted to make it, and in the end, it was his company, Amblin Entertainment, that produced it.

Gale said that one reason the studios kept rejecting the film was that time-travel films were underperforming at the box office. But the other reason concerned the tone, which he explained to Comicbook.com.

"'This is really a very nice and sweet movie, and we’re looking for stuff more like Porky’s and Stripes and raunchier comedies,'" Gale claimed he heard repeatedly. However, when they took the film to Disney, they got a very different response.

" We had this meeting with this executive over there, and we walked to his office, and he looks at us, he says, 'Are you guys insane? Are you out of your minds? You think Disney would make a movie like this?'" Gale recalled. "We’re going, 'What, what, what? What’s wrong with it.' He said, 'This is a movie about incest. You’ve got the kid and his mother in the car. That’s incest. We’re Disney. We don’t go there.'”

The other well-known issue the film ran into was having to fire the lead. While Fox was their first choice for Marty McFly, his Family Ties schedule meant he wasn't available. They hired Eric Stoltz instead, but after six weeks of shooting, they realized it wasn't working out. Family Ties' producers finally agreed to Fox taking the role, but he could only film after the TV series finished for the day. This meant they only had him from 6 p.m. until around 2 p.m.

"Michael had to work through his fatigue," Dean Cundey, the director of photography, told The Guardian. "He'd be very "up" during a take but then I'd notice him in his chair afterwards, desperately trying not to fall asleep. He was so engaging, though – he really had a great effect on set."

Despite facing 40 rejections, being deemed both "too sweet" for mainstream studios and "too scandalous" for Disney, and enduring a grueling, sleep-deprived lead actor swap, the filmmakers' persistence paid off. The chaotic production didn't hinder the movie; instead, it forged a defining 1980s masterpiece that cemented its place in cinematic history.

In 1975, Elton John had a number-one hit with “Philadelphia Freedom.” Fifty years later, it's considered an anthem for the U.S.A. and its freedoms — even though it didn't start that way.

Written by the music legend and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, the piano-driven song featured pop, rock, and soul elements, and a catchy chorus about waving a freedom flag.

Released as a standalone single, “Philadelphia Freedom” peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on April 12, 1975, amid a 21-week chart stay. The song received renewed interest the following year, most notably at the home of the Liberty Bell, as Americans celebrated the country’s Bicentennial birthday on July 4, 1976.

Decades later, Ultimate Classic Rock ranked “Philadelphia Freedom” among the Top 10 patriotic songs but also noted it didn’t start that way. The song was actually written as a tribute to Elton John’s friend, tennis pro Billie Jean King, who played on the Philadelphia Freedoms tennis team.

“But the uplifting message of the track's chorus got simplified during the countdown to America's 200th birthday celebration in 1976, and that's exactly the takeaway that remains cemented in music lovers' minds to this day,” the outlet noted.

King once shared the song’s origin story in an interview posted on Elton John’s website. The tennis legend recalled her longtime friend telling her he wanted to write her a song.

“In the summer of 1974, we were driving to one of his concerts and he looked over at me in the back of the car… and he said, 'I want to write a song for you,’” King shared. “Of course, I didn’t think I heard him right … And he goes, “No, I want to write a song, what are we gonna call it?' ...Then he went, 'How about ‘Philadelphia Freedom'?' Because I played for the [World TeamTennis] Philadelphia Freedoms and he used to come to watch our matches.”

King admitted she was “thrilled” and considered the song to be for all Philadelphians.

“I said, 'That’s great. It will be a great gift to the people of Philadelphia,’” she added. “And the timing was perfect because of the Bicentennial being just the following year [from the song’s release]. And I love the word 'freedom.' I would say it is one of my all-time favorite words since I was a child.”

King also clarified that she never wanted the song to be anything about tennis.

“It’s a feeling,” she said. “It’s a great song for a team. It’s a great song if you’re not a team.”

RELATED: 1976 No. 1 One-Hit Wonder Was Written in Five Minutes

John also shared why he decided to record the song.

“Billie Jean King, a friend of mine, she had the team The Philadelphia Freedom at the start of World Team Tennis. I said, ‘I shall write a song for you,’” he once said. “At the time, we were making so many albums, but we liked to make separate singles, too.”

“It was at the same time of all those great O’Jays, Billy Paul, the MSFB records were coming out of Philadelphia,” he added. “Philadelphia Freedom was a tribute to that music, and from a one-off single point-of-view, I don’t think we’ve ever bettered it.”

Related: 1976 Soft Rock Hit, a Bicentennial Summer Breakthrough, Remains a Career-Defining Classic 50 Years Later

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There's something special about having a backyard that feels like an extension of your home. Whether you have a sprawling patio or a small outdoor space, creating a place where you can relax, entertain friends and family or simply unwind after a long day is something many homeowners strive for. I know that any time I spend an evening outside instead of indoors instantly makes my home feel more enjoyable.

During the warmer months especially, outdoor spaces become the heart of the home. Backyard barbecues, birthday celebrations, family gatherings and quiet nights under the stars all become even better with a comfortable setup that invites people to stay a little longer. Even something as simple as roasting marshmallows or enjoying a conversation around a fire can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable one.

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Of course, upgrading your outdoor space doesn't have to mean spending thousands of dollars. One of the smartest ways to create your own backyard oasis is by watching for affordable, high-quality pieces that deliver both style and function. As someone who loves finding great deals, I always appreciate products that look more expensive than they actually are. When you can save money without sacrificing quality, it's a win for any homeowner.

Target

That's exactly why shoppers are paying attention to one outdoor find that's generating plenty of excitement at Target. The Costway 32-Inch Round Fire Pit Set has become a standout choice for homeowners looking to add warmth and charm to their patios without breaking the budget. It offers the kind of cozy centerpiece that can transform an ordinary backyard into a welcoming gathering spot.

Related: Costco's 15-Piece Steel Knife Set Is Sleek, Durable and Makes Cutting Food Effortless

The popular fire pit currently holds a 4.3-star rating on Target's website, with many reviewers praising its combination of value, appearance and overall performance. Several shoppers say it was easy to assemble, while others mention that it provides plenty of heat for family gatherings and evening get-togethers. Many also appreciate its attractive design, noting that it blends well with a variety of outdoor decor styles.

If you've been thinking about giving your backyard a simple refresh before your next cookout or relaxing evening outdoors, this highly rated Target find may be worth adding to your shopping list. Sometimes, all it takes is one well-chosen piece to make your outdoor space feel more inviting and become everyone's favorite place to gather.

Related: This Sturdy and Sleek Backpack Cooler Will Be the Best Money You'll Spend All Summer