Parade

Few rock songs sound more explosive than Styx's "Renegade."

With its dramatic a cappella opening, thunderous guitars and unforgettable chorus, the 1978 classic has become one of the band's signature songs and a staple of classic rock radio. Today, it's also a familiar soundtrack for Fourth of July celebrations, but the song began in a far more unexpected way, as a soft piano ballad.

The inspiration struck while Tommy Shaw was experimenting at the keyboard.

Although best known as a guitarist, Shaw revealed that "Renegade" was originally written on piano after he became fascinated with a chord progression from Tales of Mystery and Imagination by The Alan Parsons Project.

"I'm a guitar-playing piano player," Shaw told Guitar Player. "I had a piano, so I figured out the notes, the triad… I started moving them around like chess pieces, 'cause that's what you do when you're a songwriter."

It wasn't long before he'd written the whole song, including the lyrics.

"I wrote the words quickly and then recorded it like that," Shaw told Ultimate Classic Rock. "I listened back to it and it was like, 'I think this is good!' I played it for the band and then they started coming up with the arrangements of it."

When Shaw brought the idea to the rest of Styx during sessions for their 1978 album Pieces of Eight, keyboardist Dennis DeYoung took over the piano part before the band transformed the song into the hard-driving rocker fans know today.

"We transposed it and it turned out to be an easy thing to play on guitar," Shaw recalled. "From that point on we just started carving on it as a song. [...] And within minutes it became the song that you know."

Released as the third single from Pieces of Eight in 1979, "Renegade" became one of Styx's biggest hits, reaching No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its story of a wanted outlaw, combined with soaring harmonies and arena-ready guitar riffs, helped make it one of the defining rock songs of the era.

Over the decades, the song has taken on a life far beyond the charts. It has become synonymous with sporting events, most famously as the rallying cry for the Pittsburgh Steelers, while its unmistakable opening has kept it in heavy rotation on classic rock radio. Around the Fourth of July, its all-American energy and stadium-sized sound have also made it a favorite for fireworks shows, backyard barbecues and Independence Day playlists.

Nearly 50 years after its release, "Renegade" remains one of Styx's defining achievements. What began as a piano composition inspired by another classic album evolved into one of rock's most enduring anthems, proving that some of the biggest songs can grow from the simplest musical ideas.

Related: '70s Rock Legend Announces New Song on the Fourth of July

Right now, one of the most recognizable pieces of music in sports is echoing through FIFA World Cup stadiums across North America. And even though millions of fans know it by its first notes, few can actually name the rock legends who created it.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

“It has never ceased to amaze me how much use that one tune gets,” the co-writer once said, via Classic Rock. “We get requests for commercials, movies, and it’s become a sports anthem. It’s just incredible.”

That unforgettable prog anthem is “Sirius,” a two-minute piece of instrumental genius. And the maker of that anthem is The Alan Parsons Project, the studio collaboration between pianist Eric Woolfson and legendary English audio engineer and producer Alan Parsons, who previously worked with The Beatles on Abbey Road and Pink Floyd on The Dark Side of the Moon.

Designated the official pitch-taking music for the players competing in the global fútbol tournament, “Sirius” is getting a ton of play lately. But its popularity is nothing new.

The song has a long history in sports, beginning in 1984 when the Chicago Bulls used the it as a pregame hype track, then to soundtrack introductions of the starting lineup, helping turn it into one of the most recognizable pieces of music in athletics.

“It’s a bit of a frustration that people hear the music and say that’s the Bulls theme,” Parsons told ESPN, via Classic Rock. “I wish they did know it was The Alan Parsons Project. But they don't.”

While recording Eye in the Sky, Parsons and Woolfson composed the piece using a Fairlight CMI digital synthesizer and workstation. A cinematic, tension-building prog-rock cut, it features an iconic, echoing keyboard loop that bleeds into a soaring electric guitar solo.

According to Classic Rock, the band was keeping with its tradition of kicking off albums with an instrumental introduction, and this one was designed specifically to segue into the title track.

They could never have known the song would become what Far Outcalls an “eternal sporting anthem.” But here we are. Professional wrestler Ricky Steamboat used the track as his entrance theme, the Nebraska Cornhuskers rock it during their tunnel walk, and every athlete at the FIFA World Cup revels in it before every game.

“Sirius” was named after the brightest star in the Canis Major constellation—a fitting title for a song that, more than four decades later, still shines over the biggest names in sports.

Related: 1971 Ballad, the Decade’s Most-Covered Song, Became a Cross-Generational Anthem

Fans are ecstatic after country star Charley Crockett revealed that his acclaimed 2026 album Clovis is finally back on streaming platforms after it vanished from them earlier this year.

The country singer shared the big news on Instagram on July 3rd, writing, "You told ‘em to Free Clovis and they did. Just when you think it’s over, that’s when it begins…"

Fans were ecstatic about the news, with comments like, "What’s better than releasing the best album of all time… releasing it twice?" and "Clovis is so good they had to drop it twice."

A third declared in a top-liked comment, "This is one of the greatest country albums ever. That includes any artist. Ever. This is one of the best."

Other earnest responses included, "It’s a phenomenal album. Absolutely stunning piece of art," and "I’m crying real tears over this, I wish I was joking but I missed this album so much."

Related: ’80s New Wave Frontman Says He "Can’t Imagine" Making Another Album Following Long-Awaited Return

Clovis was originally released on April 28 on Spotify and May 1 on all platforms. The album was immediately a hit, with one review on SavingCountryMusic.com saying, "His surprise album Clovis isn’t just a career-defining record. It’s an act of rebellion." The review referenced how Crockett released the album on his own after completing his contract with Island Records.

Another positive review from Sputnikmusic heavily praised the record, saying, "I think that this is the strongest, most mature and most authentic album that Crockett has penned, and that’s saying something considering there’s not a bad album in his ever-growing discography."

Unfortunately, only days after its release, Clovis was pulled from streaming platforms on May 5 due to a conflict with Crockett's now-former record company, Island Records. Now, about two months later, it has finally returned as an official release through the label Atlantic Outpost.

In a statement from Crockett shared alongside the announcement of the re-release, he said, via Stereogum, "Happy 4th of July week y’all. Sometimes you need to fight. Goliath vs Goliath. On this 250th birthday for America, I’m reminded that freedom is something you continue to fight for. A war that never ends. Today, we win one battle. Clovis is out 4th of July weekend on Atlantic Outpost. Let’s ride."

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

For families who count down to Christmas with The Elf on the Shelf, a new accessory is giving the beloved holiday tradition a personalized twist.

The latest addition to the brand's lineup lets kids do something they've never officially been able to do before: customize their Scout Elf's game-day look with their own name, favorite number or even the colors of a favorite sports team.

Designed with football fans in mind, the new accessory kit transforms a Scout Elf into a pint-sized player, complete with a helmet, mini football and a two-piece muscle shirt.

But the biggest change is the inclusion of customizable press-on decal sheets, allowing families to create a one-of-a-kind jersey instead of relying on a pre-designed outfit.

The decal sheets include letters, numbers and symbols in several popular colors, giving kids the chance to personalize their elf's uniform with a unique team name or recreate the look of their favorite football team.

The accessory retails for $13.95 and includes:

• A two-piece muscle shirt
• Customizable press-on decals with letters, numbers and symbols
• A mini football
• A football helmet

Obviously, the Scout Elf is sold separately.

While The Elf on the Shelf has released dozens of themed outfits and accessories over the years, from pajamas and superhero costumes to baking sets and camping gear, this marks one of the first opportunities for families to add their own custom details to an official outfit.

The personalization element also makes the accessory appealing for collectors, who can create different jersey combinations from year to year or design a look that feels unique to their household.

With football season overlapping the early weeks of the holiday countdown, the sports-themed accessory offers families another creative way to stage nightly Scout Elf adventures with a custom uniform that feels entirely their own.

RELATED: This 1950 Animated Classic ‘Cinderella’ Changed Disney’s Future

Kelly Osbourne is honoring her family with words that will move you to tears.

On July 4th, the 41-year-old took to Instagram to pen a deeply personal open letter to her mom, Sharon Osbourne, on what would have been Sharon's 46th wedding anniversary with rock legend Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away on July 22, 2025 at the age of 76.

"Today feels different," Kelly wrote. "A day that was once filled with celebration now carries a quiet ache. This is your first wedding anniversary without Daddy by your side, and I can only imagine how heavy your heart must feel. There are some dates that remind us just how deeply we have loved, and today is one of them."

Sharon and Ozzy, who married in 1980, shared one of rock and roll's most iconic love stories and business partnerships - a bond that Kelly made clear didn't end with his passing. "I hope you know that love like yours doesn't end when a life does," she wrote. "It changes shape. It becomes the warmth of the sun on your face when you need comfort, the memories that make you smile through tears, the quiet moments when you somehow know he's near. Daddy may no longer walk beside you, but he will never stop walking with you."

Kelly also shared that she imagines Ozzy looking down on Sharon from heaven "with that magical smile - the one that held so much pride and so much love," adding that he would want Sharon to see herself as he always did: "resilient, compassionate, courageous, and endlessly loving."

The heartfelt letter concluded with a promise from Kelly (and the entire Osbourne family) to support Sharon through every milestone ahead. "We will hold your hand when the days are too heavy," Kelly wrote, "celebrate your victories, sit with you in your sadness and remind you whenever you need reminding that love is still all around you."

Kelly, who shares 3-year-old son Sidney with ex Sid Wilson, ended her tribute on a tender note: "Sidney and I love you more than words could ever hold." We’re sure Ozzy would smile and say 'Mama, I’m coming home'.

TV icon William Shatner'sother creative outlet is music. The Star Trek star is releasing a metal album called A Gathering of Forces, and he revealed his inspirations. There is one song that is titled with a direct reference to a Guns N' Roses song.

The hard rock band released "Patience" in 1989 with the album G N' R Lies. The song opens with beautiful guitar and whistling. The lyrics talk about missing a woman and needing patience to see her again.

"Said 'woman take it slow and things will be just fine/You and I'll just use a little patience'/Said 'sugar take the time 'cause the lights are shining bright/You and I got what it takes to make it.'"

The hopeful song sparked inspiration for Shatner and co-writers. "There’s a popular [Guns N’ Roses] song called 'Patience,'" the actor told TV Insider. "So we wrote a song called 'Impatience.'" He learned something new about what's possible with the metal genre.

"And it’s like, 'I’m not waiting around for anybody! I’m not waiting around!'" he continued. "[I found out] that heavy metal does have guitar solos in it. I didn’t know! I thought heavy metal was 'Bing, bang, crash, boom.' And it isn’t only that; so I’m learning."

Related: The 1970 Neil Young Song Written for a Movie That Was Never Made

The Emmy winner started his recording career in 1968 and covered The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Elton John, Pink Floyd, David Bowie, and Queen. He teased his new work in February with Cleopatra.

"I’ve spent a lifetime exploring in both reality and fiction," Shatner said. "Now I am stepping out into the unknown once again with my new project in heavy metal. I am covering Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden as well as a number of new songs written by my team. The whole project is destined for this year. I hope you will join me in the exploration."

Shatner previously revealed the singer who inspires him most. "Freddie had such a superb voice," he told The Guardian. "If you’re asking me who is my favourite singer I’d say Freddie Mercury. Who is my favourite band? Queen. Favourite song? 'Bohemian Rhapsody.'"

"Impatience" isn't the first time the Boston Legal actor wrote a song. He said in the same interview that he wrote something for his funeral.

"I would play a song we wrote called 'I Want to Be a Tree,'" he said. "I had read an article about planting a tree on your body when you die and I thought, 'That’s the way I want to go.' So I’ve made arrangements that I will be cremated, my ashes buried in the ground, and a tree planted on top."

The Canadian actor already has the kind of tree picked out. "I originally wanted a sequoia placed over my body but they said it wouldn’t grow, so I’m going to be a giant redwood," he said.

The release date of A Gathering of Forces and further details haven't been revealed.

Related: Will Hugh Jackman Help the Next Actor Who Plays Wolverine?

Fresh off their Coachella 2026 performance, American hardcore punk band Black Flag announced a coast-to-coast fall2026 tour.

According to Consequence, Greg Ginn and his lineup of “Gen-Z” musicians are wrapping up summer in Eagle Pass, Texas, on July 29, before hitting stops in Utah, Pennsylvania, Kansas, Arizona, and Florida. The tour concludes Nov. 1 in Houston, Texas, completing a 45-stop fall tour.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

The tour marks the band’s first full U.S. tour with the new lineup, announced last year. In a press release published on the band’s official website, Black Flag introduced three new members.

“Texas-based band Black Flag is officially turning the page and beginning a bold new chapter with the addition of three new members: Max Zanelly (vocals), David Rodriguez (bass), and Bryce Weston (drums), joining founding guitarist Greg Ginn,” the statement read. “BLACK FLAG’s upcoming performances will showcase the chemistry and talent of the revitalized lineup, giving fans a first taste of the new era.”

Fall tour dates and ticket information can be found here.

“Also look for tickets atVivid Seats, where fans can save $20 on their first order of $200 or more with promo code VIVID20 at checkout,” the outlet shared.

Formed in 1976 in Hermosa Beach, California, Black Flag originally performed under the name Panic before changing its name later that year. The band was founded by Greg Ginn with singer Keith Morris.

“What the Ramones and Sex Pistols were to punk, Black Flag was to hardcore,” The Vinyl Factorywrote of the band. “Black Flag was as prolific as it was short-lived—this supernova’s final crash-and-burn coming in the summer of 1986. They came to loathe the new conformist subculture of raging thrash skinheads they helped to create, and defiantly rebelled by growing their hair and playing long jams like their heroes Black Sabbath and The Grateful Dead.”

After their disbanding in the late '80s, several former members reunited in 2003 under the Black Flag banner, and again in 2013 for touring and album What The…. Today, Ginn continues to tour as Black Flag, while former members Keith Morris, Chuck Dukowski, Bill Stevenson, and Dez Cadena all perform Black Flag material as the separate band Flag.

Related: ’90s Alternative Rock Icons Release New Single From Forthcoming Album

In 1981, to please Dame Elizabeth Taylor, the ABC soap opera General Hospital aired the record-breaking wedding of Luke Spencer (Anthony Geary) and Laura Webber (Genie Francis). Now, over forty years later, Laura’s wedding dress has climbed its way to the top as one of daytime television’s most legendary.

The dress was named the most iconic wedding dress in American soap opera history by People Magazine.

Looking back on the dress, Francis told People, "The dress was made of silk taffeta, which wrinkles terribly, so I couldn't sit down, and the ground was wet, so my high heels were sinking into the dirt."

According to ABC7NY, at the time of the wedding, an estimated “one in fifteen Americans watched the show,” with the wedding watched by over 30 million viewers.

When Luke's character was introduced on the show, Francis shared with the Television Academy Foundation that executive producer Gloria Monty had a vision for the character and for Laura’s perspective of him.

“Luke was someone like no one else you’ve ever seen in the world, and he is fascinating to you.” She shared. The actress continued to explain that Luke was someone who was “just a little bit dangerous but utterly fascinating. The character was someone that Laura just “couldn’t figure out.”

Following almost a year on the show, the series made the controversial decision to have Laura raped by Luke in a moment of rage in the campus disco. However, the series backpeddled the choice and later labeled it a “seduction,” before ultimately addressing the action and calling it out for what it is. Francis shared that she didn’t push back at the time because she wasn’t sure where the story was initially headed, and instead was young and naïve and playing it for what it was. “I was following instructions like a good soldier.”

The storyline would play out over the course of multiple years, as Luke and Laura went on the run together, solving the mystery of the “Left Handed Boy,” and then worked together to save the world from the evil Casadine family that attempted to use the “Ice Princess,” a rare diamond, to freeze Port Charles and then the world.

During that time, the nation became swept up in their love story, including Dame Elizabeth Taylor, who called up producers and agreed to make a cameo appearance on the ABC soap opera in exchange for the series marrying off her favorite characters.

Thus, in November of 1981, Luke and Laura were wed.

Fans wanting to appreciate the wedding dress are now unable to. Francis revealed in a 2006 interview with Today that “they wanted to put that in the Smithsonian,” but they were unable to do so because the dress had been stolen.

General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC and streams weeknights on Hulu.

​One of the few legendary athletes to revolutionize men’s figure skating, Brian Boitano wowed audiences with his gravity-defying jumping power, precise artistic control, and trademark charisma. Following the invention of his signature “Tano” jump, he even rewrote professional skating’s rulebook and, in turn, became a globally recognized pop-culture icon.

Now, 62, the skating phenom is reflecting on his decades-long career. In one of his latest posts to Instagram, Boitano not only name-checks one of his favorite programs but does so by honoring the late Peabo Bryson, the two-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter who passed away last Thursday, June 2.

“Hearing of Peabo Bryson’s passing today brings back such special memories,” Boitano’s post reads. “I was lucky enough to spend some time with him this past year, reminiscing about the TV special where I skated to one of his greatest hits, ‘Can You Stop the Rain.’ Getting to perform to his incredible live vocals remains one of my absolute favorite programs.”

​The program took place during a classic figure skating exhibition, when Boitano skated to the R&B balladeer’s soaring hit “Can You Stop the Rain.” During the program, Boitano performed his signature triple lutz (with his free arm held over his head, of course), as well as elegant choreography and refined footwork, all while Bryson showed off his powerful vocals live.

Recorded for the televised figure skating specialKristi Yamaguchi’s Golden Moment, the performance was one part of a gala showcasing Olympic champions who rather than skate to recorded tracks, glided to live performances.

Alongside Boitano and Bryson, performers on these specials have included skaters such as Scott Hamilton, Kurt Browning, and Ekaterina Gordeeva, as well as musical artists such as Martina McBride, Bobby Caldwell, and Lea Salonga.

Related: Legendary R&B Singer Known for Disney Duets and Soulful Voice Dies at 75

Famous for his Disney film duets and romantic soul ballads, Bryson gifted music fans with iconic collaborations, including “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle. Dubbed the “Voice of Love,” Bryson and his smooth, operatic tenor helped shape the modern R&B genre.

As for Boitano, he retired from competitive skating in 1994 after winning the 1988 World Championship and scoring gold at the 1988 Winter Games in Calgary, where “The Battle of the Brians”—a nail-biting rivalry between Boitano and Canadian Brian Orser—played out in the U.S.’s favor. He continued to tour and perform for several years after.

Today, he’s lighting up social media with both vintage footage and new clips of his skating—yes, he’s still out there cutting ice and proving he’s the epitome of grace and power.

Related: Olympic Skating Legend, Who Captivated Fans at the 1984 Winter Olympics, Names the Greatest Performance of His Career

Hello, hello - it’s good to be back. If you thought the Oasis reunion couldn't get any more epic, think again.

On the one-year anniversary of their first reunion show, Noel and Liam Gallagher have shared the first teaser for Don't Look Back in Anger, the highly anticipated documentary about the 90’s British band's unlikely comeback - and it's everything fans like me have been waiting for.

The 45-second clip is pure Oasis swagger: electrified crowds, hints of rehearsal footage, and the Gallagher brothers reflecting on a glorious reunion that, for a long time, seemed genuinely impossible. "I just don't see myself onstage with Liam, I just don't see it," Noel says in voiceover, while Liam adds simply, "The way it finished, unacceptable." 

The film promises to be an insider's dream. According to the official synopsis, Don't Look Back in Anger is "an unapologetically uplifting account of the biggest musical event of 2025," featuring rehearsal, backstage, and onstage access. Plus the first joint interviews with Noel and Liam in over 20 years. For Oasis fans like myself who lived through the breakup, that last part alone is worth the price of admission.

The documentary was created by Peaky Blinders mastermind Steven Knight and directed by Dylan Southern and Will Lovelace. The film opens in IMAX and cinemas this September before streaming on Hulu and Disney+ later this year.

The reunion tour itself which kicked off July 4, 2025 in Cardiff, Wales and wrapped in November in São Paulo, Brazil also saw the band inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As for what's next for Oasis? The brothers aren't saying. So grab your bucket hat, parka and Adidas Gazelles because with a documentary this epic, that could be enough for Our Kid to get the band back on the road.

Jonathan Cain is marking Independence Day with new music.

The longtime Journey keyboardist has released a new patriotic single, "The Winds of Freedom: A Salute to America," timed to the Fourth of July and America's 250th birthday celebration. The song is now available on streaming platforms, with an official music video also released for fans.

"As we celebrate the 250th birthday of America, I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for the incredible support you’ve shown for my new single, 'Winds of Freedom,'” Cain wrote on Instagram.

For Cain, the song carries a deeply personal message.

"Writing this song has been an honor," he continued. "It was born out of my love for God, my gratitude for those who sacrificed for our freedom, and my deep appreciation for this nation. I truly believe America is the greatest country in the world, and I'm thankful to celebrate 250 years of faith, freedom, and opportunity."

Cain released a solo record under the Jonathan Cain Band in 1976 before joining the British-American rock group The Babys in 1979

However, he is best known as a key member of Journey, the classic rock band he joined in 1980. His arrival helped usher in one of the most commercially successful eras in the band's history, including the release of Escape, which featured enduring hits such as "Don't Stop Believin'," "Who's Crying Now" and "Open Arms." Over the decades, his keyboard work and songwriting have helped define some of the most recognizable songs in arena rock.

"['Don't Stop Believin' has] always been a special song to me because it gives us all permission to dream," Cain told Louder. "When I first joined the band, my message to them was that we needed to write a song that spoke to the fans. Don't Stop Believin’ was a conscious attempt for Steve [Perry] and I to bring them into our song. There's a lot of smalltown girls and boys out there wanting to get on to the midnight train to anywhere." 

Alongside his work with Journey, Cain has also released solo material rooted in faith, reflection and patriotic themes. "Winds of Freedom" continues that thread, arriving as a tribute to the country, the sacrifices of service members and the spiritual values he says inspired the song.

In his message, Cain encouraged listeners to stream the single, add it to playlists, watch the music video and share it with family and friends.

"Every listen and every share helps this message reach more people," he wrote. "May God continue to bless America, and may we never take our freedom for granted. Happy Independence Day!"

More than four decades after helping shape Journey's arena-rock sound, Cain continues to use music as a vehicle for gratitude and reflection. With "Winds of Freedom," the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame musician is celebrating the Fourth of July by honoring the faith, sacrifice and freedom he associates with America's milestone birthday.

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

Some of the most beloved films tell quintessentially American stories. For instance, in April 2026, the publication Collider published a list titled the "8 most universally beloved American movies of all time," featuring iconic American films from all genres, like 1975'sJaws, The Wizard of Oz, released in 1939, Singin’ in the Rain from 1952, and 1946's It’s a Wonderful Life.

According to the publication, the Oscar-nominated film The Shawshank Redemption, released in 1994, is the "most universally beloved American movie" ever made. Collider suggested that the film has amassed so many fans partly because of the moving dynamic between prisoners Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) and Ellis "Red" Redding (Morgan Freeman). The publication also pointed to the fact that audiences appreciate the film's message of fighting for survival amid dire circumstances.

While the Shawshank Redemption film was written and directed by filmmaker Frank Darabont, the original story is Stephen King's novella, Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. In a 2019 interview with NBC News, in celebration of the movie's 25th anniversary, Darabont said he had been a long-time fan of King's 1982 novella.

"I was absolutely just gobsmacked by the simplicity of it, and sort of the beauty of it. The thematic elements of friendship and hope being so nourishing to the human spirit, it just really spoke to me," said Darabont during the 2019 interview.

He then shared that "it took five years for [him] to get around to writing" the film's script after King gave him the rights to the novella.

"When I did write it, I wrote it in eight weeks flat. But I set it aside for five years because I wanted my level of skill as a writer to match my ambition for that particular script. And I didn't think that it did, you know, when I first got the rights to it," explained Darabont while speaking to NBC News.

During the NBC News interview, Darabont shared he thinks the film is widely liked because it tells audiences that all problems can be fixed and each circumstance can be bettered.

"We all need to be reminded. I need to be reminded, and I try to remind myself daily that whatever the problems are, as long as you're drawing breath, you can overcome those problems. You can march in a certain direction that will get you to the promised land, to get you to that beautiful blue horizon on that beach," said Darabont.

Fatty liver disease is a health condition that can really sneak up on you. Most of the time, we trust that our liver is quietly doing its job, and fatty liver disease doesn’t typically have any symptoms until it’s pretty advanced. 

But according to a report published in BMC Gastroenterology, 40% of U.S. adults between the ages of 60 and 74 have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). That means, even if you don’t drink alcohol, you could still be compromising your liver through what you eat.

Since fatty liver disease doesn’t have any symptoms, you may think that having it is no big deal. But according to liver doctors we talked to, the impact of fatty liver disease can be detrimental, and even life-threatening. 

Related: The Cooking Oil To Avoid if You Have Fatty Liver Disease, According to Gastroenterologists

“While simple fat buildup may not cause immediate problems, it can lead to a dangerous chain reaction such as inflammation, liver scarring and heart disease. People with fatty liver are at a much higher risk of heart-related deaths,” says Dr. Giuseppi Morelli, MD, a gastroenterologist with East Jefferson General Hospital, University Medical Center New Orleans who specializes in liver disease.

Here’s the good news: Fatty liver disease can be prevented and even reversed through what you eat. But if you want to reverse fatty liver disease, there’s one type of food that liver doctors recommend avoiding as much as you can.

Related: Tips for a Healthy Liver: What Experts Recommend for Optimal Liver Function

Dr. Sujit Janardhan, MD, PhD, a hepatologist at Rush University Medical Center who specializes in fatty liver disease, explains that the primary causes of liver fat are excessive alcohol use and metabolic issues, including obesity (especially belly fat), diabetes or elevated blood sugars, elevated triglycerides and high blood pressure. 

With this in mind, he says that the best way to lower your risk for fatty liver disease (or reverse it if you have it) is to treat any existing metabolic health conditions, maintain a healthy weight and minimize alcohol consumption.

“A commonly recommended diet is a Mediterranean diet consisting mostly of plant-based, high-fiber foods such as vegetables, fruits and complex carbohydrates, plant- or fish-based proteins and a moderate amount of healthy plant- or fish-based fats. The diet can be adjusted by adding protein and cutting back on carbs if weight loss is needed,” Dr. Janardhan tells Parade.

Related: The One Common Habit That Could Be Damaging Your Liver, According to a Gastroenterologist

Besides following a Mediterranean-style diet, exercising regularly is key. “Exercise should be a combination of cardio and strength or resistance training. Implementing any kind of additional movement into your day can make a difference. For example, walking rather than driving, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator,” Dr. Janardhan adds.

Nazar Abbas Photography/Getty Images

According to Dr. Janardhan, one of the most important ways to reverse fatty liver disease through diet is to avoid simple sugars and refined carbohydrates.

“This includes sugary drinks, fruit juice, sweets, mass-produced ultra-processed foods like chips, cookies and packaged desserts and foods made from refined flour like white bread, white rice and some pasta,” he says.

Reversing fatty liver disease doesn’t come down to avoiding just one food or drink in particular; it’s the entire food category of simple sugars and refined carbohydrates that’s the problem.

Dr. Andres Splenser, MD, FACE, an endocrinologist with Memorial Herman Health specializing in metabolic disorders and fatty liver disease, agrees with this. "Think beyond a single food and focus on overall metabolic health. Avoid chronic caloric excess," he stresses.

To do this, Dr. Splenser recommends eating primarily fiber-rich whole foods and healthy fats while minimizing animal products and ultra-processed foods.

“Simple sugars and refined carbohydrates are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to spikes in blood sugar and insulin. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance. This process promotes the buildup of visceral fat, which is the type of fat that collects around the organs and is a major source of fat in the liver,” Dr. Janardhan says of how simple sugars and refined carbs can cause fatty liver disease or make it worse.

Ultraprocessed foods directly increase fat production in the liver and contribute to inflammation and damage. Dr. Janardhan explains, “On top of that, they play a key role in developing conditions like obesity, diabetes and high triglycerides, which further contribute fatty liver disease."

Instead of eating primarily simple carbs like white pasta, white bread, pastries, chips and candy, Dr. Janardhan says to focus on eating complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice, whole-grain bread, whole-grain pasta, nuts, seeds and fruit.

“A recent CDC study confirmed previous research showing that the majority of calories in the American diet come from ultra-processed foods. These foods are more likely to cause obesity and other health problems compared to their fresh alternatives. When possible, eat fresh foods and prepare them yourself so you know what you’re consuming,” Dr. Janardhan explains.

Besides avoiding ultra-processed foods like the ones named above, Dr. Janardhan says it’s also important to minimize alcohol consumption, especially if you already have fatty liver disease. As he explained earlier, alcohol consumption is one of the primary causes of fatty liver disease. 

Sugar-sweetened beverages, like soda, sweet tea and fruit juice with added sugar, can also be harmful for liver health. "These drinks are high in rapidly absorbed sugars, especially fructose. Fructose is preferentially metabolized in the liver and drives de novo lipogenesis—meaning the liver converts sugar into fat. Over time, this promotes fat accumulation in liver cells and worsens insulin resistance, increasing the risk of fatty liver and inflammation," Dr. Splenser tells Parade.

For a healthier swap, Dr. Splenser recommends drinking water, unsweetened tea or coffee. "Coffee in particular has been associated with lower risk of liver fibrosis in multiple studies," he says.

🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊

As Dr. Janardhan said earlier, it’s empowering to know that diet can reverse fatty liver disease. By decreasing your intake of simple carbs and upping your intake of complex carbs, your liver will begin to heal. 

Up Next:

Related: Does Drinking Water During Meals Help or Hurt Your Digestion? Here’s What Gastroenterologists Say

• Golabi, P., Paik, J., Reddy, R., et al. (2019). Prevalence and long-term outcomes of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease among elderly individuals in the United States. BMC Gastroenterology. doi: 10.1186/s12876-019-0972-6. 
• Dr. Giuseppi Morelli, MD, gastroenterologist with East Jefferson General Hospital, University Medical Center New Orleans who specializes in liver disease.
• Dr. Sujit Janardhan, MD, PhD, hepatologist at Rush University Medical Center who specializes in fatty liver disease.
• Dr. Andres Splenser, MD, FACE, endocrinologist with Memorial Herman Health specializing in metabolic disorders and fatty liver disease.
• Ultra-processed Food Consumption in Youth and Adults: United States, August 2021 - August 2023. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Song, Z., Xiaoli, A. M. and Yang, F. (2018). Regulation and Metabolic Significance of De Novo Lipogenesis in Adipose Tissues. Nutrients. 10(10):1383.
• Dranoff, J. A., Feld, J. F., Lavoie, E. G., et al. (2014). How Does Coffee Prevent Liver Fibrosis? Plausibility for Recent Epidemiological Obeservations.Hepatology. 60(2):464-467.

Journey's 2026 farewell tour isn't just filling arenas. It's also sending the legendary rock band back onto the charts more than five decades after its formation.

This week, the 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees re-entered Billboard's Artist 100 chart at No. 94, marking another impressive milestone for a band that first came together in San Francisco in 1973. The Artist 100 ranks the week's most popular artists across all genres by combining album sales, song sales, streaming activity and radio airplay.

The return comes as Journey continues its sprawling Final Frontier farewell tour, which recently expanded with 40 additional North American dates after strong ticket demand.

Related: Neal Schon Calls Out Steve Perry in Journey Tribute—and Fans Notice the Wording

Journey originally formed in 1973 with guitarist Neal Schon, keyboardist Gregg Rolie, bassist Ross Valory, guitarist George Tickner and drummer Aynsley Dunbar, but the band's commercial fortunes changed dramatically after Steve Perry joined as lead singer in 1977.

Related: Journey Fans Push Back After Neal Schon’s Steve Perry Comments Spark Fresh Debate

From there, Journey became one of arena rock's defining acts. Escape topped the Billboard 200 in 1981, while Frontiers followed with another string of massive hits. Songs like "Don't Stop Believin'," "Open Arms," "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" and "Any Way You Want It" have remained radio staples for decades.

Few classic rock songs have enjoyed a second life quite like "Don't Stop Believin'." Released in 1981, the track has become one of the most enduring songs in rock history thanks to its appearances in television, movies and sporting events. Its use in the final scene of The Sopranos introduced it to a new generation of listeners, while later appearances in the pilot episode of Glee and countless arena playlists helped keep it in heavy rotation long after its original chart run.

Related: Steve Perry Breaks Silence on a Possible Journey Reunion

That staying power has translated into remarkable commercial success. "Don't Stop Believin'" became the first song from the 20th century to be certified 18-times Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, reflecting 18 million certified units in the United States. Along with Journey staples like "Lights," "Faithfully," "Wheel in the Sky" and "Stone in Love," it continues to generate hundreds of millions of streams each year, helping keep the band's catalog among classic rock's most popular.

Related: Journey Adds 40 More Dates to Massive Farewell Tour

Today's lineup features Schon, Jonathan Cain, Arnel Pineda, Deen Castronovo, Jason Derlatka and Todd Jensen, with the band currently making its way across North America on what is being billed as its farewell run.

The renewed attention appears to be translating directly into chart activity. Along with strong catalog streaming and radio airplay, Journey's ongoing tour has helped propel the band back onto Billboard's Artist 100, more than 53 years after its formation.

The achievement is another reminder that while Journey may be calling this its farewell tour, fans still aren't ready to stop believing.

Related: Journey Fans Push Back After Neal Schon’s Steve Perry Comments Spark Fresh Debate

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If this heat wave is making every errand, workout, and outdoor plan feel much harder than they should be, the Beeprincess 10-Piece Cooling Towel Set is an easy summer helper to keep around. The set is on sale at Walmart for just $15 right now, down from $26. It comes with 10 towels in different colors, and is practical to split among several people before sports practices, theme park days, camping trips, or any time the heat feels unbearable.

The towels are made from 95% microfiber, and each one measures 31.5 inches by 11.8 inches. They’re designed to stay cool using moisture evaporation, so no chemicals or additives are involved. Just soak the towel, wring it out, snap it a few times, and wear it around your neck, face, head, or body. They’re also super lightweight, machine-washable, quick-drying, pill- and fade-resistant, and designed to stay chilled for up to three hours depending on the weather.

Courtesy of Walmart

Fans and water bottles are great, but a cooling towel gives you something you can actually wear while walking, running, traveling, or sitting through an outdoor game. And since this set comes with 10, you don’t have to keep moving the same towel from bag to bag. You can leave a few in different places so you’re not stuck without one when the temperature spikes.

One reviewer wrote, “These towels have been a lifesaver,” noting that they’re “just the right weight for comfort.” Another said, “These are a game-changer in the summer heat,” while a third mentioned they’re “easy to pack and to have handy any time, anywhere.” Several appreciated that they can be refreshed without freezing or refrigerating them first.

For the price, this set offers much more than many similar towels. Some single cooling towels at Walmart cost around $5 to $10 each, while this pack brings the price down to about $1.50 per towel. That makes it easier to rotate in a fresh one when you’re spending hours outside, rather than reusing the same damp towel all day.

• Cocobela 4-Pack Cooling Towel Set, $11 (was $16) at Walmart
• Prociv 4-Pack Cooling Towel Set, $12 (was $20) at Walmart
• Ofefe 10-Pack Cooling Towel Set, $12 (was $23) at Walmart

Related: Amazon's $7 Cooling Towel 4-Pack Is 'Super Soft,' 'Lightweight,' and 'Provides Instant Cooling Relief'

For $15, the Beeprincess 10-Piece Cooling Towel Set is a practical buy before the next stretch of hot weather. It’s easy to use, simple to refresh, and helpful to have on hand when regular towels, fans, and cold drinks aren’t enough. Add it to your cart now while it’s still marked down this low at Walmart.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales twice a week.

Ranking the big screen’s greatest film soundtracks of all time is hard. Finding consensus in the ultimate defining document of late-1960s counterculture is easy.Easy Rider, to be exact.

Even the BBC couldn’t resist the great American film’s rolling travelogue that encompasses acoustic folk and rock, hard rock and heavy blues, psychedelic and acid rock, as well as counterculture satire and novelty music, as BBC Music Magazine just ranked Easy Rider rock's greatest soundtrack of all time.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

View the original article to see embedded media.

“Released in 1969, hedonistic biker flick Easy Rider introduced an authentic slice of the counterculture to the mainstream, a public who were barely prepared for such gritty realism,” the publication wrote. “In doing so, Easy Rider gave the movie industry in the U.S. a huge kick in the butt and opened the door for the ‘New Hollywood’ collective of young directors.”

The Easy Rider soundtrack revolutionized Hollywood, forgoing the prototypical orchestral original score in favor of a playlist of contemporary rock, serving as another member of the cast and setting a tone of rebellion and liberation.

“The accompanying album was equally pioneering,” the outlet added. “It was one of the first times in a movie that its soundtrack was made up of contemporary songs rather than an original score. What’s more, those songs were carefully selected to explicitly drive the film’s narrative rather than simply play out in the background.”

Key standout tracks include Steppenwolf’s iconic “Born to Be Wild,” The Byrds’ “Wasn’t Born to Follow,” Jimi Hendrix’s “If 6 Was 9,” and Roger McGuinn’s “Ballad of Easy Rider.” View, listen to, and download the soundtrack in full at Apple Music.

Related: 1968 Era-Defining Anthem Called a ‘Fluke’ Became the Most Played Rock Song in Movies

Directed by co-star Dennis Hopper, the film was released in July 1969, famously premiering months earlier at the Cannes International Film Festival, where the late Hopper won the award for Best New Director. Made on a shoestring budget, it was a massive box office success, raking in around$60 million worldwide.

The unprecedented profitability helped usher in the New Hollywood era, convincing studios to give greater creative freedom to a new generation of independent filmmakers.

Released by ABC-Dunhill Records in August 1969, the soundtrack peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 and was officially certified gold by January 1970. Its use of ready-made music inspired films including American Graffiti (1973), Mean Streets (1973), and Apocalypse Now (1979), per Ultimate Classic Rock.

About two bikers—played by Hopper and Peter Fonda—who finance a cross-country motorcycle trip to celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans with the proceeds of a drug deal, the film has earned its legendary status over the decades. Thanks in large part to its groundbreaking soundtrack, which continues to resonate with generations of music fans.

Related: 1996 Film That Inspired One of Alternative Rock’s Most Haunting Ballads Became a Cult Classic

Whitney Houston's rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" has long been regarded as one of the greatest national anthem performances ever recorded. Now, one country music star is making the case that it's not just one of the best—it's the greatest of all time.

On July 4, John Rich, who is a member of the country music duo Big & Rich, took to X to share his thoughts on Houston's rendition of the song after it was shared by Congressman Wesley Hunt.

"Good God Almighty… Whitney Houston might have given the greatest performance of our National Anthem of ALL TIME! Take three minutes and watch this today. My goodness…Makes me wanna cry," Rich said.

The performance occurred at Super Bowl XXV back in 1991 in Tampa, Fla.

"I think it was a time when Americans needed to believe in our country," Houston said after the performance, according to People magazine. "I remember standing there and looking at all those people, and it was like I could see in their faces, the hopes and prayers and fears of the entire country."

Many fans agree with Rich's statement and find Houston's performance of the National Anthem extremely moving.

"Her gift was phenomenal! She makes you tear up. But it’s not just from singing… it’s from the happiness and being proud to be an American that you can see on her face as she’s singing.. that was her gift to us," one person replied in the comments section of Rich's post.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

"I remember watching it live. Still gives me goosebumps every time I watch. Best rendition ever," someone else said.

This marked the only time that Houston performed "The Star-Spangled Banner." She died in Feb. 2012 a the age of 48.

READ NEXT: Toby Keith’s Unwavering Motto Still Resonates on America’s 250th Birthday

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Spring and summer easily qualify as “grab-and-go” seasons, with calendars that fill up quickly with beach days, picnics in the park, weekend trips, and last-minute plans. There are neighborhood walks that turn into long hikes, festivals and farmers markets that pop up, and travel days where you end up packing everything from sunscreen and snacks to a folding chair or a small cooler just in case. With that much movement between plans, the one thing that makes it all easier is a function-first bag.

If you’re in the market for that kind of everyday carry, REI currently has an adorable retro style of the Patagonia Terravia Sacoche Crossbody Bag marked down by 41%. Normally $49, you can snag it now for just $29. Designed to hold daily essentials — phone, keys, wallet, sunglasses, lip balm, and a few extras — it keeps items secure and your hands free, so you can actually enjoy the day instead of digging through your bag.

Courtesy of REI

Built to withstand daily wear and tear, this crossbody is made from recycled ripstop nylon that’s both weather-resistant and highly packable, making it easy to stash in a larger bag or clip onto gear when not in use. The compact 3-liter capacity (183 cubic inches) keeps the profile slim, while still offering a main compartment plus two exterior stretch-mesh drop-in pockets for organizing small essentials. A durable polyurethane coating on both the body and lining materials adds extra protection from light moisture, dirt, and stains.

The adjustable strap allows it to be carried comfortably as either a crossbody or shoulder bag, depending on preference. It can also be worn in front for easy access or secured to a larger pack or duffel for extra storage, and even doubles as a packing cube when the shoulder strap is removed. When not in use, it stuffs into its own main pocket for compact storage. 

The bag's construction is finished in a Fair Trade Certified factory, meaning the people who made it earned a premium for their labor, and the fabric is bluesign approved, meeting environmental and chemical safety standards for more responsible production.

Outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and regular users alike praised this “small but mighty” bag. One reviewer wrote, “This is really a great everyday bag. [It’s] comfortable and small, but fits more than you'd expect.”

Another shopper highlighted its slim profile, noting that it’s “larger than a passport pouch and flatter than a crossbody bag,” meaning it “fits comfortably under a light jacket, loose-fitting shirt, or windbreaker,” making it a secure option for protection from the weather or potential pickpockets.

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

At $29, the Patagonia Terravia Sacoche Crossbody Bag is a busy day essential. Snag this deal at REI before it's gone!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Netflixconfirmed three new additions to "Wednesday" Season 3 this week: Lena Headey, Andrew McCarthy and James Lance are all joining the cast.

The trio arrives as production continues on what's shaping up to be the show's most star-studded season yet. Headey, known to most audiences as Cersei Lannister on "Game of Thrones," joins fellow newcomers Winona Ryder, Eva Green, Chris Sarandon, Noah Taylor, Oscar Morgan and Kennedy Moyer, alongside returning cast membersJenna Ortega, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Luis Guzmán and Fred Armisen. McCarthy, best remembered for "St. Elmo's Fire," and Lance, familiar to "Ted Lasso" fans, round out the new wave, though none of their roles have been disclosed.

Plot specifics for Season 3 remain tightly under wraps, though the season is expected to lean further into the Addams family's buried history. Season 2 ended with the reveal that Morticia's estranged sister, Ophelia, played by Green, is alive and had scrawled "Wednesday must die" on a wall.

Showrunners Alfred Gough and Miles Millar have promised the new season goes deeper into family secrets than either of its predecessors. "This season, we welcome new students, new teachers, and excavate some long-rotting Addams Family secrets," the pair said in a statement when production began. "Don't say you weren't warned."

Related: 'Klara and the Sun' Trailer: Jenna Ortega Is a Robot Who Just Wants a Home

Production has taken the show overseas for the first time. Filming ran in Paris from April 18 through April 20, with Ortega, Armisen and director Tim Burton spotted shooting scenes along the Seine, a notable departure for a series that has stayed rooted in the United States through its first two seasons. Netflix teased the trip with a first-look photo of Ortega beneath the Eiffel Tower, captioned "From Paris, with dread."

The additions build on a run of high-profile casting news for the series. Ryder's arrival, confirmed in February, marked a reunion with both Ortega and Burton, her collaborators on 2024's "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice." "When it comes to Outcasts, Winona Ryder is the GOAT," Gough and Millar said in a statement at the time.

"Wednesday" enters its third season as one of Netflix's biggest franchises. Season 1 remains the platform's most-watched English-language series ever, streamed for more than 1.7 billion hours, while Season 2 currently ranks fifth on that all-time list with 119.3 million views. That success and scale is helping to drive attention with each new casting announcement as a show already involving Burton, Ortega, Zeta-Jones, Green and Ryder now adds a "Game of Thrones" icon to the mix, with more names likely before filming wraps.

No release date has been set. Given the roughly three-year gap between Seasons 1 and 2, expectations have settled around a 2027 premiere, though Netflix hasn't confirmed a timeline.

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

When Taylor Swift first debuted “All Too Well” back in 2012, it became a fan favourite for its tale of young love and broken hearts. When she re-released the song in November 2021, the song had transformed into a 10-minute epic.

Many Swifties believe the song is about her three-month romance with Oscar-nominated actor Jake Gyllenhaal in 2010. The song does identify an age-gap romance, which matches their romance, which took place when Swift was 21 and Gyllenhaal 30. "You said if we had been closer in age maybe it would have been fine / and that made me want to die," she sings.

Across the lengthy pop ballad, Swift recalls how their relationship fell apart. She berated her love for missing her birthday, took a dig at his preference for dating younger women, and wondered if she had ever met anything to the man.

Swift calls the track a "10-minute catharsis of intense emotion", according to People. "There are some really angry, scathing parts that I was like kinda gonna have to make it into something a little more palatable because I already felt so, like, raw putting that song out as detailed as it was," Swift recalled, earlier this year.

The Independent broke down how certain lyrics could connect to the Brokeback Mountain actor: “From when your Brooklyn broke my skin and bones. I’m a soldier who’s returning half her weight. And did the twin flame bruise paint you blue?” Gyllenhaal played a soldier in both Source Code and Brothers. Twin flames could refer to

By 2011, the Brooklyn-based Gyllenhaal had starred as a soldier in two different films: Source Code, and 2009’s Brothers. The "twin flame" lyric likely references that the former couple are both Sagittarius, a fire sign.

Jake Gyllenhaal has always denied the track is about him. In an Esquire profile, he shot down the popular fan theory. "It has nothing to do with me," he said.

He added: "It's about her relationship with her fans. It is her expression. Artists tap into personal experiences for inspiration, and I don't begrudge anyone that."

"At some point, I think it's important when supporters get unruly that we feel a responsibility to have them be civil and not allow for cyberbullying in one's name," Gyllenhaal explained. "That begs for a deeper philosophical question. Not about any individual, per se, but a conversation that allows us to examine how we can — or should, even — take responsibility for what we put into the world, our contributions into the world. How do we provoke a conversation?"