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With longer days and cheerful sunny weather, summer is the perfect season for outdoor gatherings. From weekend brunches to sunset book clubs, all these events could use some provisions and refreshments. If you’re looking for an elegant way to serve drinks to your guests, you can’t go wrong with a cohesive glassware set, like this 4-Piece Lilypad Coupe Glasses Set at Anthropologie.

There’s no better time to snag this chic glassware set because it’s currently on sale for an extra 50% off during Anthropologie's Summer Sale event. Normally retailing for $80, this set is now on sale for just $33 for a limited time. You can snag it in either a clear white version or a transparent yellow style. 

4-Piece Lilypad Coupe Glasses Set, $33 (was $80) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

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Handcrafted with a nature-inspired design, these coupe glasses ooze with cottagecore charm. Capturing the whimsical essence of the aesthetic, the foot of the glass features a lilypad silhouette in a rich green hue with two curved indents that give it that signature look. The foot effortlessly transitions into the stem with the same green hue. 

Adding a charming summer-ready vibe, the bowl boasts a floral silhouette that slightly flares out. The rim is wavy with soft curves, creating a ruffled look that feels sweet and playful. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, an al fresco dinner, or anything in between, these glasses will make all your gatherings feel elevated with a touch of whimsy. Shoppers absolutely adored the style of these glasses, describing them as “adorable, cute, and so whimsical.” 

These coupe glasses are made of borosilicate glass, giving them a delicate appearance with great clarity. However, they’re more durable than they look. The glass has great thermal shock resistance, meaning that it can withstand quick temperature changes. If you rinse them under hot water or chill them in the freezer, they’re less likely to crack or shatter than regular glass. While they’re sturdy and durable, you should handwash them to ensure that they remain in pristine condition for long-term use. 

4-Piece Lilypad Coupe Glasses Set, $33 (was $80) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

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Borosilicate glass is also lightweight, allowing you to pick these glasses up and drink from them with ease. The long stem makes these glasses ideal for summer hosting. It’ll prevent your hands from touching the bowl and transferring body heat, keeping your drinks chilled for a longer period of time. 

Measuring 6 inches tall with a 4.3-inch diameter, these glasses have a wide bowl that can hold around 7.6 ounces. They’re ideal for wine and cocktails, including martinis, daiquiris, and Manhattans. You can also get creative with these glasses and use them as a stylish vessel for appetizers and desserts, like shrimp cocktail, sorbet, and even individual servings of cake. 

Shop More Deals

• Sports Icon Juice Glass, $7 (was $16) at Anthropologie
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• Esther 4-Piece Acrylic Wine Glass Set, $15 (was $48) at Anthropologie

Related: Walmart’s 'Super Cold' $190 Portable Air Conditioner Triples as a Fan and Dehumidifier, and It's 47% Off Right Now

Add some cottagecore charm to every summer gathering with the 4-Piece Lilypad Coupe Glasses Set. Be sure to grab it at Anthropologie while it’s still on sale for just $33 during its Summer Sale event! 

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Fans of beloved singer and talk show host Kelly Clarkson just got some amazing news. The 44-year-old surprised fans by revealing that she has a brand-new song on the way, the first in over a year.

She cheekily wrote on Instagram, "New Single? 👀 #IdBeLyin," alongside a photo of herself that looked to be the cover art for the track. She also gave fans a specific date to look forward to, adding, "Pre-save link in bio! #July17."

Clarkson didn't add any further information about the new music, such as whether fans can expect more songs or an album in the near future.

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Fans were instantly hyped up about the big news, commenting in excitement on Clarkson's post. "MOTHER IS BACK," declared one such fan, as more replied, "YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS IM SO EXCITED," and "THE DROUGHT IS OVER."

Even the official account for Wayfair chimed in, writing, "July 17th is officially a national holiday." Other responses included, "Slap me!?!?! Is this real? Yay!!!," "Coming to save 2026," and "Yasssssss I’m always ready for new music from my girl!"

Quite a few people took the title to use in their comments, like, "I’d be lyin’ if I said I didn’t just jump out of my seat," and "I’d be lyin’ if I said I wasn’t obsessed with this song already."

Related: Kelly Clarkson Fans Can’t Believe Her "Crazy" Vocals in Duet With Hit Boy Band

There was also a lot of discussion about what specific genre the song might be and whether an album and tour would follow. Some lucky fans got to hear the song early at the taping for a The Kelly Clarkson Show episode and praised the tune.

The song "I'd Be Lyin'" is set to be released on the first day of her upcoming Las Vegas residency, which includes 10 shows between July 17 and Aug. 15. Fans attending the residency can likely expect to see Clarkson perform the song there.

Related: One of the 'Best Country Love Song Duets' Gets 'Incredibly Sad' Reimagining by Kelly Clarkson

Nearly 30 years after forming in South Florida, Nonpoint has announced its 11th studio album, The Last Word. The hard rock and alternative metal band confirmed that the record will arrive on Sept. 18, 2026, through its own label, 361 Degrees Records.

The announcement came on Instagram, where the band also revealed that fans can now pre-save the album and order limited-edition supporter bundles.

The album marks Nonpoint's first full-length release since 2018's X. Since then, the band has released the Ruthless and Heartless EPs while continuing to tour and release new music independently through 361 Degrees Records.

At the same time as the album announcement, Nonpoint released the official music video for the lead single, "Is It." The song first arrived digitally in April and has already gained momentum at Active Rock radio. According to the band, the track became the No. 1 most-added song upon release before climbing into the Top 50 of the Mediabase Active Rock chart.

Rock band Nonpoint poses at the Lincoln Theater for the East Coast Premiere of Miami Vice on July 25, 2006 in Miami Beach, Florida.

Photo by Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images

Frontman Elias Soriano said the album title reflects the band's determination to keep moving forward instead of slowing down after decades in music, per Lambgoat.

"In a world that sometimes wants to put a timestamp on creativity, 'The Last Word' is our way of saying we're just getting started. We're pushing back against expectation and pushing forward into our own next chapter,” Soriano said.

“This album cover tells a piece of our story. After years of making music, we feel more aligned than ever, musically, visually, and creatively. We're writing some of the strongest material of our career, our live shows are as powerful as they've ever been, and the band feels focused and energized,” he added.

Earlier this year, Soriano described the upcoming album as heavier than previous releases while introducing new textures and songwriting ideas. He also said the record would stay true to the band's signature sound while exploring fresh musical elements.

Nonpoint was formed in 1997 by vocalist Elias Soriano and drummer Robb Rivera. Since then, the band has built a career around heavy riffs, energetic live shows and songs including "Bullet With a Name," "What a Day," "Breaking Skin" and "Generation Idiot."

Over the years, Nonpoint has released ten studio albums, beginning with Statement in 2000 and most recently X in 2018. In 2021, the group launched its own independent label, 361 Degrees Records, opening a new chapter in its career.

The Last Word will become the band's 11th studio album and includes ten tracks:

1. “Failing The Conversation”
2. “Is It”
3. “Crowd Control”
4. “The Last Word”
5. “Shoreline”
6. “Dial Tones”
7. “Off The Hook”
8. “Red Yeti”
9. “Fine Print”
10. “Settled”

To support the new release, Nonpoint will begin The Even More Outta Control Tour on July 23 in Menahga, Minnesota. The U.S. run continues through early September, giving fans a chance to hear new music before the album arrives. Several dates will feature support from Spineshank, (hed)p.e., Soil and other special guests.

The announcement follows a busy year for the veteran band. Earlier in 2026, Nonpoint reunited onstage with former bassist Ken MacMillan during a performance of "Bullet With a Name" at Welcome to Rockville, marking his first appearance with the group in more than 15 years.

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Nearly three decades after forming, Nonpoint is preparing to release another full-length album while continuing to tour across the U.S.

Related: ’70s Rock Band Announces New Dates for 2027 Tour

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Who says you need a wedding or anniversary to pop a bottle of bubbly? That unmistakable pop of a cork immediately makes any moment feel a little more festive. A backyard barbecue feels like a bigger celebration, and a quiet evening on the patio feels a bit more special with a glass of sparkling wine in hand. Sometimes, the best reason to celebrate is simply because you can.

This year, though, there's an extra excuse to raise a glass. As America marks its 250th birthday, Fourth of July feels like the perfect time to toast with something made right here at home. While Champagne may get most of the attention, California has spent decades producing world-class sparkling wines that can easily hold their own.

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If you're planning a Fourth of July gathering—or just looking for a delicious way to commemorate America's milestone birthday—there are two California sparkling wines that absolutely deserve a spot on your table.

Korbel Brut, $11.19 at Total Wine Korbel California Bruit

Total Wine

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First up is Korbel Brut, which even has a limited-edition 750 ml bottle to celebrate the 250th. Total Wine carries it for just $11.19, which is kind of a steal.

It's a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, French Colombard and Pinot Noir grapes, making it approachable, bright and fruit-forward. And if you're considering how well it will play with your Fourth of July spread, it goes with everything from cheese boards and seafood to fried appetizers and barbecue.

Related: Aldi’s Beautiful Blue 5-Piece Cookware Set Has a Genius Space-Saving Feature for Small Kitchens

Gloria Ferrer Brut, $17.99 at Total Wine Gloria Ferrer Brut

Total Wine

Next up, you have another bubbly out of California's Sonoma County—Gloria Ferrer Brut, which retails for $17.99 at Total Wine. Incidentally, the brand is celebrating its own 40th birthday this year and boasts a wide range of sparkling wines, from this super accessible brut to bottles that cost upward of $150.

The Gloria Ferrer Brut is 88 percent Pinot Noir and 12 percent Chardonnay, which means it leans very rich and elegant, offering creamy bubbles, vibrant red berry flavors and just enough citrusy brightness to keep every sip crisp and balanced. The Pinot Noir gives it depth and body, while the Chardonnay adds freshness. It tastes more like what you might consider a traditional French Champagne than a lot of other sparkling wines made in the United States.

What Does Brut Mean in Sparkling Wine Terms, Anyway?

Simply put, a brut sparkling wine is dry, but not bone dry. It contains a small amount of added sugar (called dosage) after fermentation—just enough to balance the wine's natural acidity. Fermentation is the process that turns grape juice into wine. Not to get too scientific here, but essentially yeast eats the natural sugars in grape juice and converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide. That small amount of sugar afterward creates a crisp, refreshing style that ultimately makes brut the most popular category of sparkling wine.

So, this Fourth of July, raise a glass with one of these California-made brut options. They're bound to be crowd-pleasers at any party.

Related: IKEA Is Selling Pretty Cordless Tabletop Lights That Offer an Ambient Glow With Retro Style

Former High School Musical star Ashley Tisdale is celebrating her 41st birthday with some exciting news. The actress’s “toxic mom group” essay published in The Cut almost instantly went viral. Not only did it resonate with parents, but speculation about the identities of the other mothers grew to a frenzy. 

After fans assumed (based on pics posted on social media) that fellow celebs Mandy Moore, Hilary Duff, and Meghan Trainor were the subjects of her expose, Tisdale’s rep toldTMZ that her words were meant to spotlight an experience, not a specific group of famous faces. 

A month before publishing The Cut article, Tisdale wrote ‘You’re Allowed To Leave Your Mom Group,’ a post on her By Ashley French website. Like the other essay, this one also deals with her own experiences dealing with her peers: “But here’s the thing nobody prepared me for: Mom groups can turn toxic. Not because the moms themselves are toxic people, but because the dynamic shifts into an ugly place with mean-girl behavior.”

In February, Hilary Duff opened up toAlex Cooperon the ‘Call Her Daddy’ podcast, sharing her thoughts on Tisdale’s essay: “I felt really sad. I honestly felt really sad.” She continued, “I was pretty, pretty taken aback.” Duff added, “I think I was just like, whoa, it sucks to read something that’s like not true. And it sucks on behalf of six women and all of their lives.”

Duff’s husband, Matthew Koma, fueled the fire, posting a photoshopped pic on his Instagram Stories of his head on Tisdale’s body with The Cut’s logo and the faux headline, “When You’re The Most Self Obsessed Tone Deaf Person On Earth, Other Moms Tend To Shift Focus To Their Actual Toddlers” and the subhead, “A Mom Group Tell All Through A Father’s Eyes.” 

Now the mom of two (she shares daughters Jupiter and Emerson with husband Christopher French) is working on a new project for Netflix based on her essays, aptly titled Toxic Moms. According to Deadline, Tisdale is collaborating with Sabrina Jalees andAli Wongon the half-hour comedy series. 

While the show will reportedly follow a sleep-deprived new mom who becomes part of a competitive clique of ‘cool’ mothers, it also digs into darker themes, such as isolation. 

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Tisdale recently posted a photo of Deadline’s story on Instagram with the caption, “I guess we can all be a little toxic.” Fans and friends flocked to her post, applauding the actress and her big news, “Wow! That’s amazing, Ashley. Your mum was right when she said life gives you lemons, you just work it out.” Other commenters praised the birthday girl, writing, “Iconic mother”, “Don’t mess with Sharpay Evans, y’all bunch of Gabriellas,” and “It’s your birthday, but we got the gift.” 

From the Eagles to Fleetwood Mac to the Beatles and so many more, it's no secret that the members of rock bands often disagree. Sometimes bands end up breaking up over these differences; other times, they're able to come to a compromise. A perfect example? The story behind one of Uriah Heep's most beloved songs ever, "Lady in Black."

The fourth track on Uriah Heep's 1971 album Salisbury, "Lady in Black" was never released as a single in the U.S., but fans fell in love with the ballad just the same, and it ended up becoming one of their most popular live tunes. As guitar player Ken Hensley explained in a 2018 interview with Songfacts, it all started with a supernatural encounter.

"All my songs start with the lyric which, when completed, begin to 'speak' to me in terms of melody and rhythm," Hensley said, adding, "This is partly because I started writing poetry when I was very young and had not yet learned to play an instrument and, much later, because Heep used to tour so much I had to write 'on the run' and finish a song whenever I could get to an instrument!"

In the case of "The Lady in Black," Hensley was inspired by a ghostly vision of an actual woman in black.

"t's true, I did see this young lady and she was dressed in black and her hair was blowing around in the 'mid-winter wind,' but she wasn't 'coming to me,' she was just walking up the street outside of my hotel in northwest England during a tour," he said.

"I just picked up my guitar and let my over-active imagination run with this vision and, as is often the case, let the lyric go wherever it wanted to go."

Usually, Uriah Heep's songs were sung by David Byron. But according to Hensley, Byron disliked the song so much that he refused to sing on it. So, at the suggestion of producer Gerry Bron, Hensley sang it himself, to great theatrical effect:

She came to me one morning, one lonely Sunday morning
Her long hair flowing in the mid-winter wind
I know not how she found me, for in darkness I was walking
And destruction lay around me, from a fight I could not win

She asked me, 'Name my foe then'
I said, 'The need within some men
To fight and kill their brothers
Without thought of love or God'
And I begged, 'Give me horses to trample down my enemies'
So eager was my passion to devour this waste of life

All these years later, fans are still connecting with this musical tale of a soldier in search of redemption, as the comments on the above YouTube video prove (for example: "Ken Hensley is the best!!! Uriah Heep forever!!!" "Timeless song, and lifts me when I'm down!").

In the same Songfacts interview, Hensley addressed the inspiration behind another seemingly supernatural Uriah Heep song, "The Wizard." Fans wondered for years about whether the sorcerer of the title was Gandalf, or Merlin, or perhaps someone else entirely, but as it turns out, none of those guesses were true.

"Actually, this song came from a dream that I had persistently over a week and, when I decided to write it, I just followed what I had seen in the dream, along with a little amateur philosophy," Hensley explained.

One thing's for sure: Byron must have liked "The Wizard" better than "Lady in Black," because he agreed to sing lead on the former.

Related: '70s Rock Icon to Miss First Shows in 57 Years on 2026 Farewell Tour Amid Health Struggles

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A soft, cozy glow can completely transform the feel of a room, which is exactly why shoppers are gravitating toward this corner shelf from Amazon. The Edishine 5-Tier Corner Shelf Lamp blends warm ambient lighting with display space for your favorite décor, books, and keepsakes — and right now, it’s more than 40% off.

If you're looking for an easy way to add both ambiance and storage in one compact piece, this  triangular lighted shelf is on sale for $50, down from $90. It tucks neatly into corners, which makes it especially handy for small or awkward spots in a bedroom, living room, or home office. Shoppers are fans, with one calling it "the best corner shelf I've ever had."

Edishine 5-Tier Corner Shelf with Light, $50 (was $90) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The built-in LED lighting is the standout feature. It offers five color settings, from warm and cozy to bright white, plus preset modes for different moods. You can use it for reading, relaxing, or entertaining. Additionally, the light bars rotate 360 degrees, so you can direct the light where you want it. “The lights are bright and soft. Perfect for a bedroom,” one reviewer shared. Another said it created “a beautiful ambiance” for their living space.

It’s designed with everyday convenience in mind. The shelf comes with a remote that lets you adjust the lighting from up to 65 feet away, making it easy to change the mood of a room without getting up. There's also a foot switch, which makes it even more convenient — you can turn the light on or off with just a quick tap of your foot. 

The shelf itself features five glass tiers for books, plants, photos, or décor, all softly highlighted by the built-in light. It has a sturdy base for stability and a slim profile that fits easily into corners. “This [light] was worth every penny and more,” one shopper wrote.

Assembly is quick, too. One Amazon reviewer said it’s “very beautiful and easy to assemble,” while another noted that putting it together took about 30 minutes.

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Related: Amazon's $24 Linen Tripod Table Lamp Is the 'Cutest Little Lamp Ever' and Comes in 8 Styles

At just $50, the Edishine 5-Tier Corner Shelf with Light at Amazon is an easy way to add both functional storage and a warm ambiance to your space. If you’ve been eyeing it, now’s the time to grab it while it’s still in stock and on sale!

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On July 1, 1978, Dallas’ infamous Cotton Bowl welcomed some of rock and roll’s greatest artists to kick off the Fourth of July weekend with the Texxas World Music Festival. There was Heart, Head East, Van Halen, Journey, and more. But one of the most memorable sets of the night came courtesy of headliner Aerosmith.

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Entertaining a crowd of more than 100,000 in boiling-hot temperatures, Steven Tyler, JoePerry, and company performed radio hits including “Walk This Way,” “Sweet Emotion,” and “Toys in the Attic.” They even welcomed Ted Nugent onstage for a fan-favorite encore featuring “Milk Cow Blues.”

But smack in the middle of the band’s set, the energy shifted as the band stripped things down and delivered an unexpectedly emotional performance of what would arguably become their greatest ballad of all time: “Seasons of Wither.”

Under the sweltering night air, Tyler’s voice cut through the stadium with thousands of fans responding in kind. A stark, haunting turn from the night’s high-octane rockers, the 1974 deep cut slowed the pace and demanded the attention of the massive crowd.  

The performance was fitting, considering the song’s unlikely origins. Written months before Aerosmith broke through nationally, “Seasons of Wither” began in the winter of 1973, when Tyler was frustrated with his place in life.

“Getting mad helps me write,” he said in the Aerosmith autobiography Walk This Way, via Songfacts. “So one night I went down to the basement where we had a rug on the floor and a couple of boxes for furniture and took a fun Tuinals and a few Seconals and I scooped up this guitar Joey gave me, this dumpster guitar, and I lit some incense and wrote 'Seasons of Wither.'”

Related: ’90s Rock Ballad Trilogy That Saved Its Band From Obscurity Ends With This Iconic Hit

Out of that frustration came one of Aerosmith’s most enduring and often-deemed most underrated songs. Released on the band’s second studio album, Get Your Wings, "Seasons of Wither" was never issued as a commercial single, meaning it never had the chance to climb the charts. Still, over the decades, it has become one of Aerosmith’s most celebrated deep cuts and—in Joe Perry’s eyes—the band’s “greatest ballad,” according to Far Out.

“Of all the ballads Aerosmith has ever done, ‘Wither’ was the one I liked best,” said the legendary guitarist, who hated recording ballads and wanted the band to take a turn into heavier rock, rather than the blues-rooted, swaggering rock Tyler had in mind. “I never thought Aerosmith should do ballads at all. My philosophy was that the only thing a hard rock band should play slow was a slow blues.”

Perry may have resisted ballads, but Aerosmith eventually built one of classic rock’s strongest catalogs of them. Before “Seasons of Wither,” there was “Dream On,” and after, they had “You See Me Crying,” “Angel,” and “What It Takes,” before rewriting the rules of rock with their standout Alicia Silverstone trilogy comprising "Amazing," "Crazy," and "Cryin’."

Despite producing some of rock’s finest ballads, chart dominance remained elusive. It wasn’t until 1998’s “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” written for Michael Bay’s blockbuster Armageddon, that Aerosmith finally earned its first No. 1song and No. 1 ballad.

More than 50 years after Tyler picked up that dumpster guitar, “Seasons of Wither” continues to stand apart—not because of chart success or lack thereof, but because it brought together hundreds of thousands of fans one summer and became the ballad Aerosmith fans, even Perry, ultimately cherish most.

Related: 1977 Rock Hit, Ranked Greatest Jock Jam Ever, Became a Timeless Power Anthem

While some hit tracks have simple backstories, Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf's 1978 song "Bat Out of Hell" had multiple inspirations and ideas behind its iconic sound that made it a rock staple.

There are a lot of interesting details to go through when it comes to the creation of "Bat Out of Hell." It was released as part of the album of the same name in 1977 before it was picked as the second single to be released in 1978. Like most of the songs on the album, Steinman took inspiration from a childhood classic and his stage production, Peter Pan and Neverland, with the hopes of it being a "rock 'n roll sci-fi version."

Steinman would also take heavy inspiration from teenage tragedy songs, a style of sentimental ballads focused on tragic teen death scenarios. It's no surprise that the composer looked to Shangri-Las 1965 motorcycle tragedy track “Leader of the Pack," "Terry," and "Tell Laura I Love Her" for creative ideas.

"There is something so thrilling to me about that operatic narrative that involves a cataclysmic event, especially one so perfectly intune with a teenager's world, and rock and roll, as a car or motorcycle crash," he said in an episode of Meat Loaf: Bat Out of Hell documentary.

Critics called the track "heavy metal thunder" that only landed at No. 96 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart upon its initial release. It gained attention for its unique take on its creation, with Meat Loaf having explained that the song was constructed from a scene from Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho. The track was often misinterpreted as being related to Bruce Springsteen's "Thunder Road" song and the subsequent album, with Meat Loaf explaining the horror film was the real inspiration.

"Bat Out of Hell" also became known as a "motorcycle crash song," seeing as its lyrics deal with the aftermath of a horrific accident. Steinman was initially angered when producer Tom Rundgren didn't include the sound of a motorcycle in the track, but it led to its iconic guitar solo in its place.

It was also reported that both Rundgren and Meat Loaf were angered with Steinman when he refused to keep developing the track after hitting a 6-minute runtime. Their need to include the fatal crash scene made it a 10-minute-long track.

The song's infamy led it to hold many titles among fans, tagged as an arena-rock anthem, a driving staple, and an overall rock anthem. While Meat Loaf and Steinman had their disputes over copyright of the title years later, they remained friends until the composer died in 2021. The singer commented that while "Jim wrote it," the 1978 track "became my song."

Related: 1971 Soft Rock Classic, Inspired by a Dog, Became a Breakthrough Radio Anthem

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If there is anyone on this planet who absolutely knows how to upgrade your table settings, it is 100 percent Martha Stewart. The legendary home and hospitality expert is known for her high-quality homewares, including this pretty porcelain 12-piece dinnerware set. Even better, you can order it on Target's website. It is giving major garden party vibes.

Martha Stewart's 12-Piece White Dinnerware Set is utter floral perfection. Each set of dishes features a pretty flower-themed design in four stunning color schemes, including white, green and pink; taupe; and blue or sage green, giving you a few options to choose from. If you want a more bold look, go with the blue style. If you lean more traditional, the sage green or taupe are great choices. And if you prefer a romantic aesthetic, the white, green and pink variety is perfect.

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Each one has a striking, glossy glaze that looks super elegant and will elevate any tablescape. Every piece in the dinner set looks hand-painted, giving them an artisan feel that is so special and unique. While you can use these for daily dining, they're pretty enough for special occasions as well.

Martha Stewart 12-Piece White Dinnerware Set, $69.99 at Target

Target

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Each set comes with 12 pieces total, including four 10.5-inch dinner plates, four nine-inch dessert plates, and four six-inch cereal bowls, serving four people. You could purchase multiple sets if you need to serve more people, however.

Made from sturdy, durable porcelain, these dishes are built to last without sacrificing style. What's more, this dinnerware is both dishwasher- and microwave-safe, making them practical for everyday use. From reheating leftovers to serving up a tasty weeknight meal, these dishes have you covered across the board.

Related: Martha Stewart's Chic New 6-Piece Stoneware Meal Prep Set at Target Is a Home Cook's Dream Come True

So far, this Martha Stewart dinnerware set has earned an average rating of five stars on Target's website. You can purchase these dinnerware sets on Target.com for $69.99. It's not sold in stores.

If you are interested in other dishes, be sure to check out Dolly Parton's charming 12-piece stoneware dinnerware set at Target or this vibrant option from Costco that will transport you to the Sicily Coast.

Related: Dolly Parton's 5-Section Stoneware Serving Platter at Target Is Made for Summertime Hosting

Keith Mitchell, one of the standout linebackers behind Texas A&M's legendary "Wrecking Crew" defense, has died. He was 51. Texas A&M athletics confirmed his death to KBTX on Thursday. No details surrounding the cause have been released.

Word of Mitchell's death sparked an outpouring of grief from fans and former teammates alike. "Omg... My favorite. May his soul rest in peace," one person wrote. Another added, "The older I get, the more these headlines hit differently. RIP."

A fellow Aggie shared a personal connection, writing, "Man, we went to Texas A&M together at the same time. R.I.P."

Others reflected on the full arc of his life. "REST IN PEACE TO A TRUE WARRIOR! From tearing it up as an All-Pro caliber linebacker to completely transforming lives through mindfulness and yoga, Keith Mitchell lived with pure purpose. Legacy secure forever!" another fan wrote. 

Another echoed the sentiment: "Rest in peace Keith Mitchell. A fierce linebacker on the field and a true inspiration off it with his wellness journey. Gone far too soon at just 51. My thoughts are with his family."

2000 NFC Divisional Playoff Game - St. Louis Rams v New Orleans Saints

(Photo by Joseph Patronite/Getty Images)

One tribute captured what many seemed to feel. "An incredible football player and an even better human being. The way Keith Mitchell pivoted from a career-ending injury into teaching mindfulness and helping others heal was truly inspiring. Rest in peace."

One tribute stood out for its personal weight. "Love you brother, I got a call from your mom yesterday, and she told me that you spoke to her that morning about me. I'm grateful to have known you. I wish we could've met sooner, much love to you and your family," a close friend wrote.

Keith Mitchell's Journey From the Aggies to the NFL

Mitchell suited up for the Aggies from 1993 to 1996, anchoring a defense that helped carry the team to the 1993 Southwest Conference championship.  He went on to a seven-year NFL career with the New Orleans Saints, Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars, earning a Pro Bowl selection with the Saints in 2000, as per NBC Sports. Across 94 career games, he recorded 19.5 sacks, according to Pro Football Reference.

Overcoming Life-Changing Injury: Keith Mitchell's Path to Wellness View this post on Instagram

His NFL career came to an abrupt end following a spinal injury he suffered during a 2003 game, one that threatened his mobility altogether, according to CBS. He ultimately fought through it and recovered. Despite the challenges, Mitchell earned one of Texas A&M’s top honors in 2015 when he was named to the Athletics Hall of Fame.

After retiring, Mitchell turned to wellness and yoga, later saying the practice helped save his life.

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He went on to teach mindfulness around the world and released his book, "The Mindfulness Mastery Playbook," late last year.

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Lighting is one of those design details that rarely gets the credit it deserves. Most people notice the sofa, paint color or artwork first, but it's often the lighting that pulls everything together. A flickering candle on the dining table or a soft light on a patio after the sun goes down can make a setting feel warmer, calmer and far more inviting. You don't always notice when it's there, but you definitely notice when it's missing. Without those little pools of light, a space can feel flat or unfinished.

Thankfully, there's portable, rechargeable or battery-operated lighting in all different styles and shapes. Instead of being limited by the nearest outlet, you can add light exactly where you want it—whether it's brightening a bookshelf, making an outdoor dinner feel more intimate or adding a cozy glow to a bedside table. It's a simple upgrade that can really change the atmosphere.

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SNÖRPTRÅDLED Table Decoration, $8.99 at IKEA SNÖRPTRÅD LED Light

IKEA

That's exactly what makes IKEA's battery-operated tabletop lights so appealing. These little lights basically take the place of votive candles on a table, which are bound to burn out or, even worse, get knocked over somehow. The fluted clear candle holder has retro appeal, and the brass base looks so elegant for the price.

You even have a couple of modes to choose from, despite the light's small size. With the push of a button, you can either have it look like a flickering flame or hold a steady glow. There's also a timer function included.

Related: This Beloved 1943 Board Game Was Just Immortalized as a 'Soft and Silky' Throw Blanket at Sam's Club

These lights require two AA batteries, which aren't included. You'll have to purchase those separately.

And when I say the lights are small, I am not exaggerating. They're only about 3 inches tall and 4 inches in diameter. Still, put a few out on a table during dinner, and just watch how nicely they set a calm, relaxed mood.

An IKEA shopper in Germany gave the SNÖRPTRÅD five stars, and actually uses the light for an entirely different reason than dinner ambience.

"It sits on my vanity table and also makes a perfect nightlight," they wrote in their review.

While you're at IKEA checking out the SNÖRPTRÅD lights, don't miss out on the retailer's other recent releases. It just introduced a round take on its iconic utility cart in the loveliest blue shade, and there's a pastel pink glass cabinet that is such a playful piece of storage, you'll want to make room for it in your home as soon as you lay eyes on it. Head to IKEA soon if you're looking to add an ambient glow or extra storage to your home this summer.

Related: Dollar Tree Shoppers Say These Cheerful $1.25 Sip-and-Snack Water Bottles Are 'Amazing for the Money'

Deftones is hotter than ever these days, and they have the data to prove it.

Formed in Sacramento, California in 1988, the alternative metal band took off in the '90s and has kept busy ever since, with their latest album hitting the shelves as recently as last year.

Forbes calls Deftones' work "some of the best, catchiest and most inventive alternative, hard rock and metal music" of the last 30+ years. It's no surprise, then, that the group appears on multiple charts this week, including several that focus on only one style or another.

This time around, two different Deftones albums have soared back to the Billboard rankings, most notably Around the Fur from 1997 (a top performer for the group in general, Forbes noted on Wednesday, July 1). The rock outfit's sophomore LP is back on the Top Alternative Albums chart, where it breaks back in at No. 21.

Fans also rocked out — and then some — to White Pony, the full-length Deftones released three years after Around the Fur. More than 25 years later, Billboard's Top Hard Rock Albums chart features the fan-favorite album once again.

The band's recent chart success may have something to do with their upcoming Dia De Los Deftones festival, whose seventh edition will take place at San Diego’s Petco Park on Nov. 7. Deftones recently unveiled the lineup, which consists of themselves as well as:

• AFI
• The Neighbourhood
• Converge
• Jehnny Beth
• Bktherula
• Ladrones
• Lip Critic

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Previous lineups of the Dia De Los Deftones festival have included Doja Cat, Future, Sunny Day Real Estate, Paris Texas, 2hollis, Rico Nasty and more.

Dia De Los Deftones is an annual music festival curated by the Deftones that celebrates the band’s diverse musical influences and connection to their fan community. The event debuted in 2018 at Petco Park and was conceived as a destination festival that blends heavy music with artists spanning the hip-hop, electronic, alternative and indie genres.

Some of rock's greatest songs never appear on the charts at all.

That has certainly been the case for Van Morrison's "Into the Mystic." Released in 1970 on the landmark album Moondance, the soulful ballad never charted, not because audiences overlooked it, but because it was never released as a single. Despite having zero chart history, the song has become one of Morrison’s most cherished recordings and a perennial favorite on classic rock and adult album alternative radio more than five decades later.

The song captured Morrison at a creative peak.

Written by Morrison, "Into the Mystic" blended folk, Celtic influences, blues and soul into a deeply spiritual meditation on love, longing and homecoming. Its gentle acoustic arrangement, evocative lyrics and unmistakable vocal performance helped distinguish it as one of the emotional centerpieces of Moondance, an album widely regarded as one of the greatest singer-songwriter records ever made.

"'Into The Mystic' evolved from several ideas including the Mystic Boatyard – a boatyard on the east coast of the US," Morrison told Record Collector. "I'd been reading about mysticism. And there was Mystic River Bridge, which is outside Boston and was in a movie later on that Clint Eastwood made called Mystic River [2003]. So, all those elements. I’d also done Mystic Eyes [1965 Them single] before that, if you remember."

Although radio listeners embraced other singles from the album, including "Come Running" and "Blue Money," "Into the Mystic" quietly built its reputation as fans discovered it through the full record. Without the benefit of a commercial single release, the song instead spread through album-oriented rock radio, where it became one of Morrison's most requested and enduring tracks.

Its influence only expanded over time.

“Into the Mystic" has since appeared in numerous films, television shows and commercials, while also becoming a favorite choice for weddings, memorial services and other meaningful life moments. The song has been covered by a wide range of artists, including the likes of Michael McDonald, Johnny Rivers, Marc Cohn, Glen Hansard, Joe Cocker, and Bob Dylan, a testament to its universal themes and timeless melody.

"Later on, [David] Bowie told me he was doing 'Into The Mystic'," recalled Morrison. "It might have been when he was in Dublin. I got on the phone, and somebody said, 'Hi, this is Dave.' He told me he was rehearsing it or something."

For Morrison, Moondance marked the album that established him as one of rock's premier songwriters. Alongside classics such as "Crazy Love," "Caravan" and the title track, "Into the Mystic" helped define a sound that blended poetic lyricism with roots music in a way few artists had achieved before or since.

"The [Moondance] record was three- or four-minute songs, but the actual performances were much more stretched out, there was more going on," Morrison told The Guardian of performing the record live. "I had a band of musicians who got what I was doing. It just sort of clicked, because to me it was my version of gospel, but it wasn't about Jesus."

More than 50 years after its release, "Into the Mystic" remains one of Van Morrison's defining achievements. It was never released as a single, yet its enduring popularity proves that a song's legacy isn’t measured by chart positions alone. Thanks to decades of radio airplay and generations of devoted listeners, the beloved ballad has become one of classic rock's most treasured anthems.

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

Shawn Johnson is opening up about a parenting decision she wishes she had handled differently.

During an appearance on The Bossticks on Thursday, July 2, the Olympic gold medalist admitted that she and husband Andrew East accidentally pushed one of their children too hard after a coach encouraged them to fast-track the child's athletic development.

"We have already learned firsthand and we've done it wrong already," Johnson, 34, revealed. "I will openly say this, I burnt our one of our children from like a passion that they had because I drank the Kool-Aid."

She explained that after a coach suggested their child needed to be placed on a faster development track, she bought into the idea. "I[I put] one of our kids, you know, in the fast track, and within a month, they were like, 'I'm done.'" she recalled. "It just took it from being fun and from being a passion to being serious, and no kid needs to do something serious yet."

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Now, Johnson says she and East, also 34, have completely shifted their approach. "We've just found that our job now is to say, 'I'm so excited for you. How can I help you?'" East agreed, saying they've become much more intentional about encouraging their children without projecting their own ambitions onto them. "You have to give people space to figure out what they like and what they don't like," he said. "What I definitely don't want to do is project my own thing... onto my kids."

Elsewhere in the conversation, Johnson reflected on her own athletic career, explaining that she believes her age actually worked in her favor when she competed at the 2008 Olympics.

"I was 16," she said. "I was not mature enough to be able to digest the magnitude of it, which I think was also a blessing." She later attempted a comeback for the 2012 Games before retiring, saying that as she got older, she better understood the literal gravity of things.

Johnson became a household name at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where she won four medals, including gold on the balance beam and silver in the all-around, team, and floor exercise competitions. She officially retired from gymnastics in 2012 after a knee injury ended her comeback bid.

She married East, who is a former NFL player, in April 2016, and the couple share three children: daughter Drew, 6, son Jett, 4, and son Barrett, 2

In July 1971, John Lennon was putting the finishing touches on a masterpiece that, according to Grunge, would become the most-covered song of the decade and an enduring anthem that would transcend borders, time, and generations.

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OnJuly 4, Lennon traveled to the Record Plant in New York City to record the iconic string arrangements for “Imagine.” Later that summer, he was famously filmed at his English estate, Tittenhurst Park, singing different versions of the song on his magnificent white piano.

Co-written with his wife, Yoko Ono, and drafted on a sheet of Hilton Hotel stationery, the track made its official debut later that year in October. Music fans immediately embraced the song for its soft, hypnotic melody and hopeful vision for a world without borders, religions, or material possessions.

Seen as an idealistic, universal anthem of peace, the track was a natural evolution of Lennon’s earlier peace activism. Despite slight controversy caused by the opening line, “Imagine there’s no heaven,” the song became a cultural symbol of unity and one of Lennon’s defining works. It also became the most successful single of his solo career.

Related: ’70s Rock Band’s Version of a Classic Anthem Named One of the Best Covers of 2026 So Far

Reflecting on the song’s creation, Lennon shared the following, which was published on the artist's official website:

“‘Imagine’ is a song conceived in my head without melody. The first verse came to me very quickly in the form of a childlike street chant ‘da da da da da dee dee, da dee da ee a eeeh.’

“The piano intro I’ve had hanging around in my head for a few years—the chords and melody followed naturally from this.

“The middle eight was ‘conceived’ to finish off the song. I think it works as a song. Of course, there is always room for improvement—otherwise I wouldn’t make any more.

“The third verse came to me in an eight-seater plane.

“It’s a song for children.”

Related: 1955 Rock Classic That Started a Record-Breaking 220-Week Chart Run Was Actually a Cover 

The song’s simple beginnings ultimately produced one of popular music’s most enduring standards. Since 1971, “Imagine” has been covered more than 760 times, Grunge reported.  

“Back when Lennon released ‘Imagine’ off his 1971 album of the same name, he might not have known how big it would become or how many people would pick up their acoustic guitars and strum away to the track,” the outlet wrote. “Yet by the year of his death, 1980, Lennon considered ‘Imagine’ to be ‘the best song [he ’d] ever written’ and ‘almost like a prayer.’”

In 2024, Rolling Stone ranked “Imagine” in the Top 20 of its list of the top 500 songs of all time. The recognition followed the track’s chart success on the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at No. 3, and its inclusion in the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry in 2023.

“In this simple paean to global unity and fellowship,” author Kenneth Womack wrote, “Lennon had the courage, incredible as that may seem both then and especially now, to imagine new possibilities for living in a better, and as of yet unrealized world.”

With notable covers stemming from Elton John, Neil Young, Ray Charles, Joan Baez, and Chris Cornell, the anthem is proof that an incredible song never belongs to just one voice.

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Kitchen upgrades come in all shapes and sizes, but few are as versatile as a good cutting board. Beyond being a dependable meal prep essential, the right one can double as a decorative accent, elevate your countertop and bring loads of character to your kitchen.

So where do you go to find the perfect cutting board to complement your space? IKEA, of course, for the APTITLIG Butcher Block. Retailing for just $25, this beautiful board adds a splash of color to your kitchen while serving as a durable surface for all your meal prep needs. When it comes to finding upgrades that earn their keep and hardly break the bank, it doesn't get much better than this.

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APTITLIG Butcher Block, $24.99 at IKEA

IKEA

Part of a larger collection of butcher blocks that fit seamlessly in sinks from the BOHOLMEN series, the APTITLIG Butcher Block easily sticks out as a stunning standalone piece. Measuring 17.75 by 14.25 inches, it offers plenty of space for slicing and dicing ingredients, plus a milled groove around the perimeter to collect juices and help prevent spills onto your countertop.

Complete with a reliable cutting surface on each side, easy-to-grip slanted edges, and the ability to be repurposed as a serving tray for finger foods or charcuterie, it's easy to see why fans would love this practical piece. Designed to fit over select BOHOLMEN, BREDSKÄR and FYNDIG sinks, it lets you prep, rinse and drain ingredients right over the sink before moving them back to the countertop, making everything from meal prep to cleanup an absolute breeze.

Related: Dollar General Is Selling a Sleek $20 Portable Essential Made for Summer Cookouts

What Shoppers Are Saying

IKEA

"Four years later and it still works," one shopper raved in a review, adding that it "performs like it should" without "cracking in half," unlike other cutting boards they've tried. "Just oil it regularly and let it dry standing up," they added, noting that after all these years, theirs still "shows no signs of quitting."

Other shoppers echoed the same sentiment, with one calling it "solid and beautiful," while another commended it for being "large, heavy and thick," a construction they say "lends itself well" to an unexpected use: "I actually use these under stereo components to help reduce resonance."

At $24.99, there really isn't a better deal than this stunning butcher block. Its durable bamboo construction offers a reliable surface for just about any meal and needs only light maintenance to keep its brand-new appearance. Just be sure to avoid soaking it in water, store it in a cool, dry place and always dry it thoroughly after each wash. And remember, occasional treatment with food-safe mineral oil will help maintain its look for years to come.

Snag it for yourself or as a gift for a loved one while it's still in stock, and while you're at it, take a peek at this stylish new IKEA utility cart and some stunning stoneware plates.

Related: IKEA Just Released a $15 Serving Bowl That Feels Timeless and Elegant

It's hard to imagine anyone but Hugh Jackman playing Wolverine. Jackman, 57, debuted as the beloved X-Men character in 2000. He then returned in nine more movies.

He revealed whether he'll be involved when it's time to step away from the mutant character, and another person wears the Adamantium claws.

Hugh Jackman Won't Help the Next Wolverine Actor In 2000, Jackman hit it big when he scored the role of Wolverine in X-Men. Since then, he's starred in six X-Men movies as the haunted mutant hero, including July's box office smash, The Wolverine.

20th Century Fox

Project Big Screen asked Jackman if he would help the next person who takes on the role. His knowledge from over 25 years of playing the character would be invaluable.

"I’m 57. I’m doing it till I’m 90," the actor said first. "So, you know, I’ll do a little time capsule for them. I’m not going to say anything to whoever plays him, ’cause no one said anything to me, which I really am thrilled about."

The Broadway star continued with honesty about his lack of knowledge going into the first movie. "And I had not read the comics, so I was just coming to it fresh," the Oscar nominee said. "And I learned a lot over the years. Of course, I’ve got my own take, but it must be melding in with me in some way. I hope someone just comes in and does whatever the f--k they want and makes it their own."

Related: Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster Make a Rare Appearance as a Couple

Who Is Writing and Directing the 'X-Men' Reboot? Jake Schreier attends the World Premiere of Marvel Studios' "Thunderbolts*"

Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

Jake Schreier is set to direct the X-Men reboot to integrate them into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The first movie will be released after Avengers: Secret Wars in 2028, according to Collider. Schreier already showed off his superhero chops directing Thunderbolts*.

Lee Sung Jin, who created Netflix's Beef, and The Bear co-showrunner Joanna Calo are writing the script for the movie. Schreier, 44, explained why they're the best fit for the job.

"When you go back and read X-Men [comics], there's ideology but also interpersonal drama, almost of a soap opera quality," he said. "Having writers who understand both how to drive ideology from personal stakes, if we get that right, that's what will feel most honest to what X-Men can be."

Technically, The Fantastic Four: First Steps starring Vanessa Kirby, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, was the newest return of mutants to the cinematic universe. Its post-credit scene jumps forward four years, and Sue Storm gets a book to read to her toddler son. She sees Doctor Doom kneeling in front of her boy.

There is a good chance Jackman will be involved with the future X-Men movies since there is no announcement of him stopping to play Wolverine. Deadpool & Wolverine already played with the character interacting with familiar and new X-Men characters through the multiverse.

Tyler Mane played Sabertooth in the 2024 movie. Liev Schreiber previously played the same character in X-Men Origins: Wolverine. There is still time to see which actors will step into the familiar roles that involve Wolverine.

Related: ’80s Action Star Impressed Director With His Stunts Using New Rig Technology

Public Image Ltd (PiL) has announced four new Japan concert dates for February 2027, marking the band's first performances in the country since 2018.

The announcement was made on the band's official website on Tuesday. Tickets for the shows will go on sale on July 18, at 10 A.M., while the pre-sale opens on July 9 at 12 P.M.

The newly announced dates are:

• Feb. 3, 2027 – Diamond Hall, Nagoya
• Feb. 5, 2027 – Namba Hatch, Osaka
• Feb. 7, 2027 – Bay Hall, Yokohama
• Feb. 8, 2027 – Toyosu PIT, Tokyo

The Japan concerts become the latest addition to PiL's busy international touring schedule, which already includes European, Australasian and North American performances stretching from 2026 into 2027.

John Lydon of Public Image Ltd performs on stage at O2 Forum Kentish Town on June 16, 2022 in London, England.

Photo by Jim Dyson/Getty Images

The Japan shows arrive after the band announced its extensive North American This Is Not... The Final PiL Tour, which runs across late 2026 and early 2027.

The first North American leg begins on Sept. 3, 2026, in Pioneertown, California, before concluding on Oct. 9 in Nashville. A second leg resumes on Feb. 17, 2027, in Salt Lake City and finishes on March 24 in Cleveland.

Earlier this year, PiL also confirmed an Australia and New Zealand tour scheduled for January 2027. Those concerts will mark the band's first Australian performances since 2013 and its first New Zealand appearance since 1989.

The newly announced Japan dates fit between the Australasian shows in January and the second North American leg beginning later in February, giving the band a packed global itinerary for early 2027.

According to Ultimate Classic Rock, frontman John Lydon recently explained why returning to the road became important after the deaths of his wife Nora Forster and longtime manager John "Rambo" Stevens in 2023.

"After losing Nora, and Rambo, I couldn't see a way through," he said. "The thing is, people were so overwhelmingly positive, they really showed me a lot of love, and they asked me to tour PiL again. With so many people asking and with the band meaning so much to them, I couldn't just stay on my sofa and not tour – tempting though that obviously is."

Lydon also shared the band's excitement about reconnecting with audiences and working on new music.

"We're looking forward to playing to our friends in North America. It feels like it's been a long time and we're pleased to be coming back. We've just been into the studio for four weeks to start work on our new record. You'll be hearing a lot more from PiL."

The band has also confirmed that a new studio album is currently in production for release in early 2027. In addition, PiL plans to release a live album, Alive, recorded during its 2025 tour.

Public Image Ltd was formed in June 1978 by vocalist John Lydon following the breakup of the Sex Pistols. The band was originally created with guitarist Keith Levene, bassist Jah Wobble and drummer Jim Walker.

Over the decades, PiL became known for blending post-punk with elements of dub, experimental rock, progressive rock, alternative music and pop. Their early albums, including First Issue, Metal Box, and The Flowers of Romance, helped shape the post-punk movement.

Lydon has remained the group's only constant member throughout its history. After reforming PiL in 2009 following a 17-year hiatus, the band has released three additional studio albums: This Is PiL (2012), What the World Needs Now... (2015), and End of World (2023).

The current lineup features John Lydon, Lu Edmonds, Scott Firth and drummer Mark Roberts.

PiL continues one of its busiest touring periods in years, giving fans across multiple continents opportunities to see the pioneering post-punk band live throughout 2027.

Related: ’80s Metal Band, Disbanded Twice, Announces 2026 Show

One of Martina McBride's most powerful songs might also be the most misunderstood song of her discography.

Her popular 1994 track "Independence Day" is frequently mistaken for a song about patriotism and American freedom, but that's not exactly what McBride was thinking about when she wrote the emotional lyrics.

Despite the common misinterpretation, "Independence Day" is actually a poignant song about domestic abuse. The lyrics are written from the perspective of a young girl who witnesses her mother being abused by her father. By the end of the song, her mom ends up burning down their house to escape the violence, breaking free of her husband's abuse and therefore marking a sort of "Independence Day."

But fans haven't always understood the deeper meaning to the lyrics, and even McBride is aware that the song is frequently misunderstood for a patriotic anthem.

"I have mixed feelings about it, to be honest," McBride told Rolling Stone in 2019. "I have always had such a connection to the real meaning of the song, and it’s … 'annoying' isn’t the word...interesting that some people just don't understand what the song is about at all."

But McBride famously performed "Independence Day" in at the 2001 Farm Aid concert just weeks after the September 11 terrorist attacks, even though she knew the song had been misinterpreted.

"We were all so raw, we’d never been through anything like that before. The decisions that we were making — that I was making — were based on emotion, and trying to have solidarity and pulling together as a country," she said. "When I realized that the words to that chorus, ‘let freedom ring,’ kind of mirror what we were all feeling at the time, I made that decision to do that. But looking back, I never want to take away from what the song is really about."

Even considering the confusion around the song's meaning, "Independence Day" is widely considered one of McBride's signature tracks, and it's been called one of the “most powerful country songs of all time,” according to Country Cord.

It’s also been named among some of the best country songs in the entire genre, with Rolling Stone including the McBride track at No. 45 on its list of the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.

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