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Something I look forward to every summer is reading books while sitting on my apartment’s “balcony.” By balcony, I mean my ancient fire escape. And by sitting on it, I mean opening my window and awkwardly perching on the window tracks, for fear of actually putting my body weight on the rickety fire escape.

And after doing this periodically throughout the summer, it’s safe to say my window—and the surrounding area—typically accumulates some significant dirt and dust. So before I shut my windows for fall this year, I thought it would be a good idea to do a deep clean.

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That said, what exactly should I be cleaning for fall before closing my windows?

To find out, we spoke with Scott Benson, Director of Operations at The Cleaning Authority, a national residential cleaning company. Not only did Benson share the seven things you should clean before closing your windows at the end of summer, but he also shared exactly what products you need and what methods you should follow. Keep reading for his insights!

Related: Hold Up—These Surprisingly Effective Home Cleaning Hacks Use Ketchup, Mayo and What Else?!

Why You Need to Clean Your Windows Before Fall

“By the end of summer, your windows have likely accumulated months of pollen, dust and dirt,” Benson tells Parade.

“The same is often true for window tracks, screens, blinds and curtains, especially in homes where windows are frequently opened to let in fresh air,” he continues. “Cleaning these areas before cooler weather arrives provides a seasonal reset. It helps prevent buildup from sitting for months and becoming more difficult to remove, reduces allergens in the home, and allows your windows to bring in more of the natural light you’ll appreciate during the winter months.”

Related: 50 Genius Garage Organization Ideas & Hacks To Get the Most Out of Your Space

7 Things a Pro Cleaner Recommends Cleaning Before You Close Your Windows for Fall 1. Window glass

Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

Benson is starting off with the most obvious part of the window: the glass.

To clean your window glass, you’ll need: water, white vinegar, a spray bottle and three clean microfiber cloths. To get started, simply wipe the glass down with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any dust.

“Next, mix half a cup of vinegar with 4 cups of warm water in a spray bottle,” he says. “Spray the vinegar and water mixture onto the window. Use a clean microfiber cloth to rub in the solution, then use a new cloth to dry off the window.”

2. Window tracks

Yusuke Ide / Getty Images

Window tracks can accumulate endless dust and dirt, and they need a deep clean before fall. To clean your window tracks, you’ll need: a vacuum, a spray bottle, water, vinegar, baking soda, an old toothbrush and a microfiber cloth.

“First, vacuum out as much loose dirt and debris as possible from the tracks,” Benson explains. Then, “fill a spray bottle with equal parts water and distilled white vinegar. Next, sprinkle baking soda in the window tracks and spray with the vinegar solution.”

After letting this sit and fizz for around five minutes, “take an old toothbrush and scrub the tracks to loosen any stuck-on grime. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.”

Related: Here’s Exactly What Professional Housekeepers Use To Make Homes Smell So Good

3. Windowsills

urbazon / Getty Images

“Cleaning windowsills is very simple,” says Benson. All you’ll need for this is two microfiber cloths, dish soap and water.

“First, vacuum any loose dust and debris. To make it easier, do this step while vacuuming any loose dirt from the window tracks,” he says.

Then, “take a microfiber cloth, squirt a few drops of dish soap onto it, and wet it completely. Wring out any excess water, then wipe down the windowsill. Dry with a separate, clean microfiber cloth.”

4. Blinds

Thidarat Kwangten / Getty Images

“Blinds often have multiple sides and shapes, so they can sometimes be a hassle to clean,” Benson says. The best way to clean them is with a microfiber cloth and a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water.

“Take a mixture of half vinegar and half water and use a microfiber cloth to swipe over each section of the blinds,” he says. “The embedded dust and dirt will come right off.”

5. Curtains

Sergio Cervera Moreno / Getty Images

“For most curtains, it’s best to gently vacuum regularly to remove dust and pet hair, and to spot treat stains with mild dish soap,” says Benson. However, between seasons, it’s worth giving your curtains a more intense reset.

“For a deeper clean, check the care label to see whether the fabric is machine washable,” he advises. “If so, follow the instructions to wash at home. If not, you can hand-wash or take the curtains to the dry cleaners.”

Related: Yikes—You’re Probably Not Washing Your Towels Often Enough, According to a Microbiologist

6. Window screens

Bill Oxford / Getty Images

“Window screens can be delicate,” says Benson. So, rather than cleaning your screens while they’re still in the windows, he recommends carefully removing them, and laying them on a flat surface. To clean the screens, you’ll need a microfiber cloth, dish soap and a sink or hose.

“Take a microfiber cloth, add a few drops of dish soap and wet the cloth,” he advises. “Gently scrub the screen on both sides, rinse, and let it air dry completely. Depending on the size of your screen, you can rinse with a hose or in your sink.”

If the screens are still gunky after rinsing, try scrubbing them with a soft-bristled brush. “Just be sure to scrub gently to keep your screen intact,” Benson warns.

7. Nearby lamps

Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

“Many people have lamps near their windows, especially in living rooms,” says Benson. And the best way to clean them is often with a lint roller!

“The lampshades can easily collect dust and pollen and, in many cases, just need a simple refresh,” he says. “To remove dust, use a lint roller and work from top to bottom for quick removal.”

Up Next:

Related: Psychologist Says if You Clean While You Cook, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

Source:

• Scott Benson, Director of Operations at The Cleaning Authority

Today’s NYT Wordle answer, think of someone who is too old to be called a little kid but not yet a teenager.

But the day just isn’t complete until I’ve solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1896 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today’s Wordle?

There is one vowel, but it’s the repeated letter,  so you’ll see it twice in today’s five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today’s Wordle start with?

Today’s Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today’s Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today’s Wordle?

A hint for today’s Wordle is: can refer to a child between the ages of roughly 8 and 12.

OK, that’s it for hints—I don’t want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

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

We’ll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don’t want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today’s Wordle Answer for #1896 on Friday, August 28, 2026.

Today’s Wordle answer on Friday, August 28, 2026, is TWEEN.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn’t Used Yet (Updated Daily)

Shania Twain is celebrating another trip around the sun! The Canadian-born country music superstar, affectionately referred to as the “Queen of Country Pop,” turned 61 years old on Aug. 28, 2026, and she has a lot to be proud of.  

RELATED: 2007 Tim McGraw Song, Never a No. 1, Written by Chris Stapleton — Now Reimagined by Lainey Wilson

Twain’s breakthrough hit came in 1995 with “Any Man of Mine,” which appeared on her second studio album, The Woman in Me. The song, written with then-husband and producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange, became Twain’s first chart-topping hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and peaking at No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100. 

The Woman in Me was a massive success, spawning eight singles, including “Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?” and “(If You’re Not in it For Love) I’m Outta Here!” But it was Twain’s 1997 follow-up album, Come On Over, that made her a global icon, selling over 40 million copies worldwide.

The project made history as the best-selling studio album by a female solo artist and the best-selling country music album of all time. No. 1 hits on Come On Over include “Love Gets Me Every Time,” “You’re Still the One,” and “Honey, I’m Home.” 

Throughout her decades-long career, Twain has continued to evolve, releasing powerhouse albums like UP! in 2002, Now, in 2017, and Queen of Me in 2023. She recently unveiled her seventh studio album, Little Miss Twain, a reflection drawing on her youth and early performing days in Canada, featuring collaborations with Tanya Tucker, Josh Homme, and The War and Treaty. 

A five-time Grammy winner, Twain has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, cementing her status as the best-selling music artist of all time, according to Universal Music Canada. In addition to her recording success, she is an author (releasing her autobiography From This Moment On through Atria Books) and a seasoned live headliner who has mounted multiple hit Las Vegas residencies.  

Though she has accomplished so much, behind the glamour lies a story of immense resilience. Born Eilleen Regina Edwards on Aug. 28, 1965, Twain faced poverty and hardship in rural Ontario. She began singing at the tender age of eight, performing in local bars and anywhere she could to buy groceries for her family. 

RELATED: 1969 Hit, Reimagined by Reba McEntire Decades Later, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Country Songs of All Time’

After high school, Twain joined a band and toured, but things took a tragic turn when her mother and stepfather were killed in a car crash. At just 22 years old, Twain put her dreams on hold to raise her younger siblings, taking up gigs at a local resort to keep her family afloat. 

Once she was able to pursue music again, Twain caught the attention of Nashville executives, adopted the stage name Shania, and the rest is history.

Happy 61st Birthday to the undeniable Queen of Country Pop!

Related: 2009 No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among ‘Best Country Songs of All Time,’ Reimagined as a Duet With Megan Moroney

If you have diabetes, you already know you need to eat sweet foods in moderation so they can fit into your overall daily carbohydrate and meal plan. But knowing how peanut butter fits into your diet isn’t all that straightforward.

It can be challenging to know whether peanut butter is healthy or not, even for people who don’t have diabetes and don’t have to monitor their blood sugar as closely. After all, it’s a common addition to many (delicious) deserts. So, is peanut butter healthy?

Related: This Is the #1 Best Habit for Blood Sugar Balance, According to an Endocrinologist

“Peanut butter can definitely be part of a balanced diet, but not all peanut butters have the same ingredients, which is important to remember. A lot of peanut butter on grocery store shelves is made with added sugar, which is something to look out for when making the healthiest choice,” says registered dietitian Maggie Michalczyk, RD.

But even peanut butter with added sugar has beneficial nutrients. “Peanut butter is a good source of quality protein and is considered a plant-based protein,” says Tara Spisak, RD, CDECS, a registered dietitian at Parkview Health. Besides being high in protein, peanut butter also has healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber and magnesium. 

What does this mean in terms of how peanut butter impacts blood sugar? Keep reading to find out.

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How Peanut Butter Affects Blood Sugar Levels

Both Michalczyk and Spisak say that peanut butter does not spike blood sugar levels. Michalczyk explains that peanut butter is low in carbohydrates and provides protein and fat. This combination prevents it from raising blood sugar as much as high-carbohydrate foods.

Spisak adds to this, explaining, “The protein slows the absorption of carbohydrates, leading to a more gradual rise in blood glucose compared to a more rapid spike in blood glucose if consuming just carbohydrates. This will result in a more stable and gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream, which helps improve blood glucose control.”

Remember, not all peanut butters have the same ingredients. Spisak points out that if your peanut butter has added sugar or honey, it will raise blood sugar more than peanut butter without these ingredients.

Related: What To Know About the Optimal Range Your Glucose Should Be In—and How To Get It Checked

The Glycemic Index of Peanut Butter: Does It Cause Spikes?

While peanut butter does contain some carbohydrates, both registered dietitians say that it doesn’t cause blood sugar to spike after eating it. “Protein slows the absorption of carbohydrates and prevents large blood glucose spikes,” Spisak says.

According to the glycemic index guide, sugar-free peanut butter has a glycemic index of 25, making it a low-glycemic food. For context, the glycemic index ranges from 0 to 100, and foods with a glycemic index of 70 or greater are considered high-glycemic. 

“Since carbs are the main macronutrient that raises blood glucose after eating, a food that’s relatively low in carbohydrate, like peanut butter, typically won’t cause the same type of glucose rise as a high-carbohydrate food,” Michalczyk says.

Related: This Is the #1 Worst Habit for Blood Sugar, According to an Endocrinologist

Healthy Fats and Fiber: How Peanut Butter Helps Stabilize Blood Sugar

It’s not just the peanut butter’s protein that prevents it from spiking blood sugar. Both dietitians say that peanut butter’s fat and fiber content also play a role. “The fat and fiber in peanut butter help slow digestion and the absorption of carbs. The fats in peanut butter also slow gastric emptying, meaning food moves more slowly from the stomach into the small intestine. Together, this can contribute to a smaller, more gradual rise in blood sugar,” Michalcyzk explains.

In general, Spisak says that if you want to keep blood sugar levels stable, it’s always best to pair foods high in carbohydrates with foods that have protein, fiber and fats. Peanut butter just happens to naturally have this balance. 

Besides keeping blood sugar levels steady, Spisak notes that the fat and fiber in peanut butter are what make it so satiating. If you integrate peanut butter into your snack, you’ll stay full for longer.

Is Peanut Butter Good for People With Diabetes?

Since peanut butter doesn’t spike blood sugar—and, in fact, can help keep it stable—Michalczyk and Spisak both say that it’s a good food for diabetics. 

“Peanut butter can definitely be part of a diabetes-friendly diet. It can even be a helpful addition to something like a piece of toast for people who have diabetes because it will help prevent a blood sugar spike versus just eating the toast alone,” Michalczyk says.

As with any food, it’s important for diabetics to monitor their portion size when eating peanut butter—especially since it is high-fat and calorie-dense. Spisak says that a typical serving size of peanut butter is two tablespoons, which provides almost 200 calories.  

How To Choose the Best Peanut Butter for Blood Sugar Control

If you want to choose a peanut butter that will best support your blood sugar, Michalczyk recommends reading the ingredients list and choosing one where peanuts are the main ingredient and there are very few additional ingredients. 

That said, Spisak explains that even peanut butter with added sugar doesn’t contain too much of it. “You can look for natural, no added sugar, lightly sweetened or unsweetened peanut butter if you are concerned about the addition of added sugars, but there is also not a huge difference in added sugars,” she says, adding that brands with added sugar typically have just three grams of sugar per serving.

“It is recommended to have 38 to 50 grams per day of added sugar for a 1,500 and 2,000 calorie diet. So, the added sugar in peanut butter is minimal,” Spisak says. With that in mind, if you like the taste of regular peanut butter over natural or unsweetened peanut butter, go for it.

One type of peanut butter Spisak wouldn’t recommend buying is reduced-fat peanut butter. Remember, that fat is what provides satiety and helps balance out the carbs—it’s a good thing!

There’s no need to pass on the peanut butter if you have diabetes. In fact, it’s a food that can work in your favor. 

Up Next:

Related: The Dark Chocolate Mistake That’s Spiking Your Blood Sugar, According to an Endocrinologist

Sources

• Maggie Michalczyk, RD, registered dietitian and creator of Once Upon a Pumpkin.
• Tara Spisak, RD, CDECS, registered dietitian at Parkview Health.
• Peanut Butter (Sugar Free). Glycemic Index and Load.

Justus Kelley from Virginia was crowned Miss USA 2026 during the 75th annual pageant on Thursday, August 27.

Justus Kelley, 31 — previously Miss Virginia USA 2026 — became the first mother ever crowned in the pageant’s 75-year history. Her win comes just three years after the organization changed the rules to permit mothers to compete. It also eliminated the age restriction, meaning that any woman 18 years or older can participate.

In addition to Kelley being the first mother to win, she is also the first married woman to ever hold the title.

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“I’m Justus Kelley and I just won Miss USA 2026. This opportunity means the world to me, and not only are we celebrating the 75th anniversary but we made history tonight,” she said in a video shared to the official pageant’s Instagram page. “I’m the first married woman, first mom, and first woman in her 30s. It’s a great night.”

Aside from the crown and title, Kelley will take home a prize package valued at over $685,000. The package includes a $150,000 salary, a Range Rover, a one-year lease in a luxury Miami apartment residence, a Westgate Vacation Home Club, and $30,000 Miss Universe wardrobe.

With the world at large mourning the devastating loss of Dolly Parton, fans are understandably anxious about the health of safety of many more beloved stars. So it was a comfort and delight for viewers when Stevie Nicks, 78, appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live this week to perform her 1983 solo classic, “Stand Back.”

Nicks, who hasn’t been on Jimmy Kimmel since late 2024 (when she performed “The Lighthouse”), was introduced by guest host Jelly Roll before launching into the #5 Billboard hit.

The rare TV performance came just days before the Fleetwood Mac star is scheduled to appear at the Daisy Chain Field festival in Irvine, Calif., this Saturday. (Nicks will be performing for free at the benefit, organized by Olivia Rodrigo to raise money for women’s health groups and reproductive justice.)

Commenters on a YouTube video of Nicks on Kimmel were quick to praise the “Queen of Rock and Roll” (as she’s often been called).

“After losing Dolly, we got to cherish our greats,” wrote one person, adding, “Love Stevie.”

“78 years old. Solid gold,” raved a second person, with someone else declaring, “Protect Stevie Nicks AT ALL COSTS!”

Originally, “Stand Back” appeared on Nicks’ Wild Heart album, featuring Prince on synthesizers — an appropriate addition, since the song was inspired by “Little Red Corvette.”

As Nicks explained in a 2009 interview with MTV, she wrote “Stand Back” on the first night of her honeymoon to then-husband Kim Anderson.

“I’m driving to my honeymoon night in Santa Barbara from L.A., and ‘Little Red Corvette’ comes on,” she said. “We’re like oh my God, it’s Prince! So I start singing all these words, and I’m like, ‘Pull over, we have to get a cassette player! And we have to record this!’”

Related: 1979 Soft Rock Ballad, Written by the ‘Greatest Frontwoman in Rock History,’ Was Inspired by a Secret Age-Gap Affair

Nicks called Prince in the hopes he would play on the song, even though she “never thought” he would pick up the phone.

“I said, ‘Prince, this is Stevie Nicks, and I wrote a song to your song ‘Little Red Corvette,’ and we’re at Sunset Sound right now, and I was wondering — first of all, I wanted to tell you that I’m giving you 50 percent of [the royalties] it if it ever goes anywhere, but are you in town? If you are, how would you feel about coming down and playing on it?’”

“Never in a million years did I think this man would be like, ‘I’ll be right there,'” Nicks admitted. “He was there in 20 minutes and he played on ‘Stand Back,’ and he was there an hour and a half, and then he left.”

According to Nicks, she and Prince went on to become “really good friends,” and though he didn’t take songwriting credit on “Stand Back,” he did accept his share of the royalties.

Related: 1975 Rock Song, Written in 10 Minutes, Remains a Classic 51 Years Later

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You don’t have to compromise on style when it’s cold out. The fall and winter can actually be the most stylish times of the year, if you focus on purchasing jackets, footwear, and accessories that are fashionable, intentional, and comfortable. The classic puffer coat is the perfect way to upgrade your seasonal closet with ease, and luckily, the Columbia Amaze Puff-Hooded Jacket is on sale at Macy’s for 30% off right now.

The jacket initially cost $220, but has been reduced to $154 before the leaves turn crisp. The promotional code BUYMORE is automatically applied to achieve the sale price, but make sure to double check before you click purchase. Add the jacket to your cart in nine colors, ranging from bold to classic. Some of our favorites include the brown, cream, and black hues for the perfect everyday chic option, while the bright red and blue offer a unique pop of color. 

Columbia Amaze Puff-Hooded Jacket, $154 (was $220) at Macy’s 

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The available sizes range from XS to XXL, with most sizes and colors currently in stock. One shopper said that the “trendy” style is “a bit oversized, which is perfect if you want to wear some layers underneath.” The jacket falls right around the waist, has a detachable hood and finger holes to keep warm, and consists of a two-way front zipper closure that you can leave open or closed depending on your preferred style and the weather. 

Columbia Amaze Puff-Hooded Jacket, $154 (was $220) at Macy’s 

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

There’s even an inner pocket and side zipper pockets for your hands and other small to medium miscellaneous items, like your phone and keys. The jacket is made of a nylon shell and polyester lining, so if you do place it in the washer, make sure to hang dry it to prevent shrinkage. Shoppers say that the material is “really warm,” “very soft,” and “exceptional quality,” with one customer writing that the jacket is their “favorite coat of all time.” 

The beauty of this puffer is that it’s “functional,” “lightweight,” and “comfortable,” so you can wear it for nearly any occasion. It’ll look amazing with everything from casual street style outfits to more upscale wardrobe pieces like dresses and skirts (you can even wear it to the office!). One pro tip is to keep the jacket in your car so that it’s handy for last-minute events and activities. 

Shop More Deals 

• I.N.C. International Concepts Side-Stripe Wide-Leg Pants, $54 (was $84) at Macy’s 
• DKNY Louey Mary Jane Scented Jelly Flats, $29 (was $49) at Macy’s
• Helena Floral Reversible Microfiber 8-Piece Comforter Set, $40 (was $100) at Macy’s

This “excellent” Columbia puffer coat also makes for a great gift for loved ones heading to college, and shoppers say it’s “absolutely worth every dollar.” You can even splurge on a few colors that you can rotate through this season. Don’t miss out on this unbeatable 30% off outerwear deal at Macy’s! 

Related: Macy’s ‘Lightweight’ Reversible Comforter Set Has a ‘Serene’ Nature-Inspired Design, Now 70% Off

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Punk’s rawest songs still needed an ear for melody.

Sex Pistols bassist and songwriter Glen Matlock turns 70 on Aug. 27, nearly five decades after helping shape the sound of British punk. His bass playing and songwriting brought tuneful instincts to a band remembered as much for its music as its chaos.

Born in London in 1956, Matlock crossed paths with guitarist Steve Jones and drummer Paul Cook while working at Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood’s clothing shop. He became the band’s original bassist, with John Lydon joining as lead singer in 1975.

Matlock’s musical foundation reached well beyond punk. While discussing the players he admired, he singled out influential studio bassist Carole Kaye alongside several other musicians.

“The players I like are people like Carole Kaye, Tina Weymouth, John Entwistle and Ronnie Lane,” he told Louder, praising musicians who give songs “counter-melody and colour.”

That emphasis on melody was a major part of Matlock’s contribution to the Sex Pistols. He received songwriting credit on 10 of the 12 tracks on the band’s only studio album, 1977’s Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols, including “Anarchy in the U.K.,” “God Save the Queen” and “Pretty Vacant.” Although Matlock left the group before the album was released, the songs he helped create became punk standards.

He soon formed Rich Kids with Midge Ure, Steve New and Rusty Egan. Matlock later built a wide-ranging career that included solo records and work with Iggy Pop, the Damned, Blondie and a reunited version of the Faces.

The Sex Pistols were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, with Matlock named among the honored members. The group declined to attend the ceremony, keeping its anti-establishment reputation intact.

Matlock is now back onstage with Jones and Cook in the Sex Pistols Featuring Frank Carter. The band is set to begin a rescheduled North American tour on Sept. 11, with shows continuing through October before a run of U.K. dates later this year.

At 70, Matlock is still playing the songs that changed rock. The Sex Pistols may have thrived on provocation, but their records also had hooks, and he helped write them.

Related: ’60s Music Legend, Who Wrote a Ray Charles No. 1 Hit, Turns 80

Cream’s song “Sunshine of Your Love” continues to be celebrated as one of the most recognizable songs of the classic rock era, with its influence enduring nearly six decades after its release.

The 1967 track has remained a timeless anthem in rock history, with Amazon Music including it on its 100 Greatest Classic Rock Songs playlist, further cementing the iconic British supergroup’s legacy.

While fellow legendary artists and bands like Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone,” The Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” and The Beatles’ “Here Comes The Sun” earned the top spots on the curated playlist, Cream’s song landed at No. 63, making it one of the best classic rock tracks of all time.

Written by supergroup members Jack Bruce, Eric Clapton and Pete Brown, the song was featured on their second studio album, Disraeli Gears, in 1967.

Jack Bruce, Eric Clapton and Ginger Baker of British rock supergroup Cream in 1966.

Ivan Keeman/Redferns

Despite its slow-burn success, “Sunshine of Your Love” achieved massive commercial and critical acclaim after debuting at No. 36 on the Billboard Hot 100 before eventually peaking at No. 5.

This not only made it Cream’s highest-charting song but also the band’s first and only gold-selling single in the United States.

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Besides the song’s massive popularity and success, “Sunshine of Your Love” has an interesting rock history tied to one of music’s legends, Jimi Hendrix.

Clapton mentioned in a previous interview that the signature repeating bass riff was inspired by Hendrix’s performance after Bruce saw him play at London’s Saville Theatre.

“After the gig, he came up with the riff. It was strictly a dedication to Jimi,” the frontman told Rolling Stone, as cited by Louder, with Bruce recalling the moment saying, “Pete [lyricist Pete Brown] and I had been working all night trying to come up with some songs. I just picked up my double bass and looked out the window and the sun was coming up. And I just started playing the riff of “Sunshine Of Your Love.”

Adding to the song’s distinctive sound, Clapton’s solo made “Sunshine Of Your Love” more memorable.

He utilized his famous ‘woman tone” a thick, vocal-like guitar sound similar to a female singing voice that eventually became his signature sound.

Decades later, Cream’s song is still making its presence felt in rock music.

Related: Bon Jovi Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 39 Years After No. 1 Hit

Linda Ronstadt needed a little more energy on her 1977 album Simple Dreams. Most of the songs were ballads, so she and producer Peter Asher added Buddy Holly’s “It’s So Easy” to pick up the pace. Ronstadt later called it an “afterthought,” but the song went on to become a No. 5 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. 

By the time Simple Dreams came around, Ronstadt and Asher had their approach down. They knew how to pick songs that played to her strengths while still letting her stretch vocally. 

A big part of that was finding strong material from talented songwriters and letting Ronstadt make it her own. Simple Dreams featured songs by J.D. Souther, Eric Kaz and Warren Zevon, along with several covers that added even more variety to the album. 

Ronstadt also made room for her country influences, recording the traditional songs “Old Paint” and “I Never Will Marry.” For the album’s better-known covers, she took on The Rolling Stones’ “Tumbling Dice” and Roy Orbison’s “Blue Bayou.” 

She also returned to Buddy Holly. Ronstadt had already found success with Holly’s “That’ll Be the Day” on her previous album, Hasten Down the Wind, so “It’s So Easy” was a natural choice when her record needed something with a little more bounce. 

Holly and producer Norman Petty wrote “It’s So Easy,” which Holly recorded with The Crickets in 1958. While the song didn’t chart when it was released, it gained a second life as a rock ’n’ roll standard after Holly’s death the following year.

That Texarkana sound baked into the original was right in Ronstadt’s wheelhouse, too. As the “Queen of Country Rock,” she had grown up listening to those influences and knew how to bring them into her version.

“It’s Texarkana,” the songstress once said. “It’s that area of the country (Texas/Arkansas). I grew up listening to that. It’s kind of country, it’s kind of rock ‘n’ roll, it’s kind of blues. It’s a little bit of all those things.”

Ronstadt’s take clearly resonated with listeners. “It’s So Easy” reached No. 5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in December 1977 and spent 18 weeks on the chart. Her version was also sharing the Top 5 with another Simple Dreams hit, “Blue Bayou,” which peaked at No. 3. 

Related: 1967 Rock Song, Written by ‘Greatest Guitarist of All Time,’ Is Still Adored 59 Years Later

There’s no question that John Prine was one of the greatest songwriters of all time, and one of the qualities that set him apart was his remarkable ability to write from the perspective of different characters that were, seemingly, nothing like him. One standout example, of course, is “Angel From Montgomery,” sung from the perspective of a middle-aged woman (though Prine himself was just a young man when he wrote the song).

Originally released on Prine’s self-titled 1971 album, “Angel From Montgomery” went on to inspire a staggering number of covers, with Bonnie Raitt‘s 1974 version becoming the most famous of all (though it was Prine’s rendition that went on to be ranked among Rolling Stone‘s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” at #351).

As the late Prine explained in an interview with BLUERAILROAD, the idea for “Angel From Montgomery” came from a suggestion made by his friend, Eddie Holstein.

“Eddie said, ‘Why don’t we write a song together?'” Prine recalled. “And I said, ‘Jeez, I’ve never written with anybody. But I guess we could try.'”

“So we went over to his apartment, and I said, ‘What do you want to write about?'” Prince continued. “And he said, ‘I really like that song you wrote about old people [‘Hello in There’], let’s write another song about old people.'”

At first, Prine was reluctant, as he felt he “said everything he wanted to say” in “Hello in There.”

“So I thought for awhile and said, ‘How ’bout a song about a middle-aged woman who feels older than she is.’ And Eddie goes, ‘Naw.'”

Prine went on to say that the idea “stuck” with him, and he started writing “Angel From Montgomery” that night, with the words “I am an old woman named after my mother.”

“I had this really vivid picture of this woman standing over the dishwater with soap in her hands, and just walking away from it all,” Prine explained. “So I just kept that whole idea image in mind when I was writing the song and I just let it pour out of that character’s heart.”

“I didn’t realize all this at the time, but if you come up with a strong enough character, you can get a really vivid insight into the character that you’ve invented,” he continued.

“You let the character write the song. You just dictate from then on. You stick to it, and whatever the character is saying, you have to figure out how to keep that in the song. You know? That’s how I do it. I almost go into a trance. Once I’ve got an outline, a sketch in my mind, of who the person was, then I figure I’d better let them speak for themselves. Rather than me saying, ‘Hey, so here’s a middle-aged woman. She feels she’s much older.’ It wouldn’t have been nearly as effective.”

Raitt wasn’t the first (or only) musician to cover “Angel From Montgomery.” (John Denver and Carly Simon are just two other examples.) But Raitt’s cover of the song, recorded when she was 25 years old and released on her 1974 album Streetlights, became the definitive version.

“I think that ‘Angel From Montgomery’ probably has meant more to my fans and my body of work than any other song, and it will historically be considered one of the most important ones I’ve ever recorded,” Raitt said in a 2000 interview with Performing Songwriter magazine.

“It’s just such a tender way of expressing that sentiment of longing — like ‘Hello in There’ — without being maudlin or obvious,” Raitt added. “It has all the different shadings of love and regret and longing. It’s a perfect expression from another wonderful genius.”

Related: 1960 No. 1 Hit, Written by 17-Year-Old Carole King, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’

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With fall fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to start transitioning your closet for breezier temperatures. Staple layering pieces, like classic long-sleeve shirts and oversized sweaters, are ideal for navigating weather that fluctuates between cool and hot in a matter of hours. If you’ve been looking for closet staples to wear alone or underneath sweaters and jackets, Walmart’s latest fashion find is for you. 

The bestselling Sunbs Crewneck Long-Sleeve Shirt is now on sale for up to 50% off, knocking its $20 price down to as low as $10. Though the black option is available at the lowest price, you can also shop it in nine other styles — including pink, gray, khaki, brown, white, and camo print — at varying discounts. 

Sunbs Crewneck Long-Sleeve Shirt, $10 (was $20) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Available in sizes small to 3XL, the classic top has a flattering crewneck, long sleeves, and an oversized fit that’s comfortable enough to wear all day long. It’s crafted from a polyester, rayon, and spandex blend that’s lightweight, breathable, and soft against the skin, offering a gentle stretch that moves with you through all your everyday activities. 

The cute shirt is easy to style for a variety of occasions. Pair it with biker shorts and sneakers while working out, don it with leggings or sweats for at-home lounging, or wear it with jeans and sandals for daily errands. You can also wear it on its own or layer it over a tank or tee during cooler temperatures. 

The bestselling top has earned plenty of praise from Walmart shoppers, with over 200 five-star ratings. Multiple reviewers praised its “soft” and “stretchy” feel, with one buyer highlighting the “super airy” fabric. Another said it offers a “comfy, relaxed look” that’s perfect for layering, noting that they plan to order more colors. 

Shop More Deals

• Uvn Short Sleeve V-Neck Blouse, $11 (was $21) at Walmart
• Fantaslook 3/4 Sleeve with Buttons Top, $14 (was $23) at Walmart
• Rosvigor Women’s Top, $13 (was $22) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s ‘Chic’ and ‘Comfy’ $10 Strappy Sandals Are Perfect for Transitioning From Summer to Fall

With its lightweight design, an ultra-affordable price tag, and plenty of color options to choose from, this stylish long-sleeve crewneck shirt is a worthy addition to any fall wardrobe. Don’t hesitate to grab one (or more!) for as low as $10 before this deal ends at Walmart. 

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Influencer Madeleine “Maddie” White and her husband, DJ Andrew Fedyk, are searching for answers after their 2-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, Dunkin, died just days after being placed in a training program.

Fedyk said the couple, who recently welcomed a baby, enrolled their two dogs in an approximately four-week board-and-train program with Smart Dogs Training in Los Angeles. According to Fedyk, they paid $10,000 after researching the business and meeting with the owner several times.

But only two days after dropping the dogs off, the couple learned Dunkin had died. “We received a call within 48 hours that dunkin was supposedly taken to the park during an extreme heat wave,” Fedyk shared in an Instagram post on Wednesday, August 26. “[He] ‘showed signs of heat exhaustion’ in the car, and had passed away by the time they arrived at a boarding facility we were not informed they were ever being transferred to.” 

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Fedyk alleged Dunkin was not taken to a veterinarian during the incident. The couple planned to have an autopsy performed to determine his cause of death.

White has also been sharing details with her followers, claiming the trainer involved was Jeff Todd, and that AirTags worn by both dogs were disconnected while they were supposedly at a dog park. She also noted the vet Dunkin was dropped off at after his death would not update her or reveal his condition when he was brought in.

A screenshot of @madeleinecwhite’s Instagram account on August 27.

Fedyk claimed in another Instagram video the following day that he and White have now spoken with seven other families whose dogs allegedly died under unexplained circumstances while in Smart Dogs Training’s care. “It is now something a lot more serious than just simple negligence,” Fedyk alleged. White also shared screenshots from others who had similar situations.

The DJ asked anyone with previous experience with Todd or the training business to contact the couple as they seek more information. “We’re here to talk and we want to help get this resolved and get justice for our dogs,” he said.

Smart Dogs Training has not responded to Parade’s request for comment at this time.

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Dolly Parton leaves behind a rich legacy of music and film, but she was also an avid reader who read around 50 books a year and championed fighting childhood illiteracy through her Imagination Library. Dolly’s love of reading was inspired by her father being unable to read. Knowing he never really got to achieve all that he could, Dolly Parton was a dedicated reader and book lover who helped fight illiteracy. In a 2019 interview with the Today Show’s Jenna Bush Hager, Dolly was asked to name her favorite books. At the top of her list was Sara Gruen’s epic historical fiction novel Water for Elephants.

What Is Water for Elephants About? @todayshow

In 2019, Dolly Parton told Jenna Bush Hager that she cherished her title as “The Book Lady,” giving millions of books to children through her Imagination Library. The Imagination Library mails free books to children from birth until they begin school, and was inspired by Parton’s father, who could not read or write. “I wanted to do something so my dad could be proud to help me with. Daddy got to live long enough to hear the kids call me The Book Lady. And he was as proud of that as me being a star. And that meant so much to him. And so I felt like I brought honor to my dad through that.”

♬ original sound – TODAY Show

Published in 2006, Water for Elephants follows Jacob Jankowski, a young veterinary student whose life is upended after the deaths of his parents. With no family and nowhere to turn, he joins a traveling circus, taking on the responsibility of caring for its animals. There, he immerses himself in circus life and falls in love with the show’s star performer, who is already married to the circus’ volatile boss. The story blends romance, adventure and the spectacle of a traveling circus, but it also tackles themes of finding a new life when the one you expected disappears.

It’s easy to see why Water for Elephants struck a chord with Dolly Parton, who often gravitated toward books about people facing difficult circumstances and finding the strength to keep going. The book’s themes of renewal, creating a family of performers and finding possibility in an unexpected life feel very much in keeping with the values Dolly championed throughout her own life.

Related: 2009 Novel Rejected by 60 Literary Agents Named Goodreads’ Best Book for Book Clubs

Dolly Parton’s Love of Reading @reesesbookclub

Our Book Lady forever 🤍 In 1995, Dolly Parton founded the @ImaginationLibrary in honor of her dad, who never learned to read or write. The organization has since worked with partners to mail over 300 million free monthly books to kids from birth to age 5. “Of all the things I’ve done in my life — and it’s been a lot because I’ve been around a long time — this is one of the most precious things and the proudest I’ve been of any program I’ve ever been involved in, working with these kids,” Dolly said in her 2020 documentary The Library That Dolly Built. Thank you, Dolly, for helping millions discover the power stories hold 📚

♬ original sound – ReesesBookClub

Throughout her career, Dolly Parton talked about dreaming big and created a new life despite childhood limitations, themes that all resonate in Water for Elephants. Dolly may not have joined the circus, but she created families of her co-stars and colleagues and used the constraints of her own father’s education to inspire her to create a life even bigger than her own dreams.

Related: Lily Tomlin Reacts to the Death of Her Beloved ‘9 to 5’ Costar Dolly Parton

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In 1980, Christopher Cross was a newcomer enjoying the kind of debut most musicians could only dream about when an unlikely single took him all the way to the top.

“Sailing” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 during the week of Aug. 24, 1980, spending one week at the summit. It became Cross’ first No. 1 hit after his debut single, “Ride Like the Wind,” featuring Michael McDonald on backing vocals, had peaked at No. 2 earlier that year. Cross would eventually score a second No. 1 with 1981’s “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do).”

But “Sailing” didn’t just rule the charts 46 years ago. Decades later, it received an honor that seems almost tailor-made for the song.

In 2007, VH1 named “Sailing” the No. 1 song on its list of the 40 Most Softsational Soft-Rock Songs, placing it ahead of Styx’s “Babe,” Rupert Holmes’ “Escape (The Piña Colada Song),” Barry Manilow’s “Mandy” and Chicago’s “If You Leave Me Now.” “Sailing” was also named to Amazon Music’s 100 Greatest Soft Rock Songs of All Time playlist.

The distinction is particularly fitting now that “Sailing” is widely regarded as one of the defining examples of yacht rock, though Cross himself has said he and his contemporaries originally knew the style by a different name.

“We both have become part of that ‘West Coast’ sound, now known as Yacht Rock,” Cross wrote in 2013 for HuffPost while discussing Hall & Oates and the genre’s unexpected resurgence. He added that yacht rock had become “such a cult fascination” around the world.

Perhaps the most remarkable part of “Sailing’s” journey to No. 1 is that it wasn’t necessarily supposed to make that journey at all.

Cross’ self-titled debut album had already produced “Ride Like the Wind,” which spent four weeks at No. 2. According to music historian Fred Bronson’s “The Billboard Book of Number One Hits,” the label initially favored “I Really Don’t Know Anymore” as the follow-up.

But there was a complication. Like “Ride Like the Wind,” the song featured McDonald on backing vocals, and Cross’ management was concerned about depending on two consecutive singles featuring the Doobie Brothers singer.

So another song was selected: “Sailing.” It proved to be quite a second choice.

“Sailing” went to No. 1, and Cross later acknowledged during his Grammy acceptance speech that the song was his favorite on the album and hadn’t originally been intended as a single.

The recording itself also contained a happy accident. Cross has recalled that the song’s orchestral opening resulted from the wrong button being pushed during recording. It had been intended to begin with the acoustic guitar before the accidental opening became part of the finished record.

“Sailing” was technologically unusual for 1980, too. Recorded using the 3M Digital Recording System, it became one of the first digitally recorded songs to make the charts.

The technology behind “Sailing” may have been cutting-edge, but the inspiration for it went back to Cross’ adolescence.

Cross has said the song was inspired by an older high school friend named Al Glasscock, who would take him sailing when Cross was a teenager. Glasscock became something of a surrogate older brother during an emotionally difficult period in Cross’ life, and their trips gave the future singer a way to escape the pressures he was experiencing.

The two eventually lost touch, but nearly three decades later, The Howard Stern Show reunited them in 1995. Cross confirmed that those long-ago sailing trips had inspired the song and later sent Glasscock a copy of his platinum record.

Related: The Greatest Guitar Solo You Can’t Hear Is Hidden in a 1980 Classic

By the time Cross was writing songs of his own, he’d already spent years performing. He began on drums as a seventh grader, later switched his focus to guitar and eventually played in bands around Texas before Warner Bros. signed Cross as a solo artist.

If reaching No. 1 was the high point of “Sailing’s” summer, what happened several months later turned Cross’ debut into music history.

The scale of Cross’ overnight success was so extraordinary that it nearly became the story itself. “The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll” noted that the five Grammys Cross won for his debut ultimately attracted more attention than the music that earned them, an unusual predicament for an artist who had seemingly arrived fully formed.

At the 1981 Grammy Awards, Cross became the first artist ever to sweep all four General Field categories in a single night: Album of the Year for Christopher Cross, Record of the Year and Song of the Year for “Sailing,” and Best New Artist. “Sailing” also won Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s), giving Cross five Grammys that night.

No artist managed the same four-category sweep again for 39 years, until Billie Eilish accomplished it at the 2020 Grammys.

Cross’ debut ultimately produced four Top 20 hits: “Ride Like the Wind,” “Sailing,” “Never Be the Same” and “Say You’ll Be Mine.” The album went on to be certified five-times platinum in the United States.

The sudden success wasn’t something Cross took for granted. Speaking about his career at the time, he reflected on how quickly everything had changed.

“When I’m old I’d like to be able to say all this happened because my music was good,” Cross said in Bronson’s book.

Forty-six years after “Sailing” reached No. 1, the song’s journey hasn’t ended. It has gone from an unlikely single to a chart-topper, a three-time Grammy winner and, eventually, VH1’s pick for the No. 1 soft rock song of all time.

For a song about getting away from it all on the water, “Sailing” has traveled remarkably far.

Related: 1980 Olivia Newton-John Hit, Written for a Box Office Bomb, Became a Four-Week No. 1

Dolly Parton fans are still finding their footing in a world without her. Everywhere you look, the loss feels immense. For those who can’t stop replaying her music, there’s now another way to hold onto her: two of her most beloved films are heading back to theaters.

Theater chains across the country are bringing two of her best-known films, Steel Magnolias and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, back for special tribute screenings this week, just days after her death.

Parton died Tuesday, August 25, at 80, following a brief battle with cancer, her representative confirmed to People, a few hours after her family first announced the news.

Which Theaters Are Screening Dolly Parton’s Movies? View this post on Instagram

AMC will lead the charge with tribute screenings starting Friday, August 28, and running through Wednesday, September 2, spanning about 200 theaters nationwide.

Each location will offer two matinee showings daily, one per film, all priced under AMC’s Fan Faves tier. Fans can find showtimes and tickets through the AMC app or theater chain’s website.

Regal is joining in as well, though its screenings are limited to Tennessee, Parton’s home state. Tickets run $9.25 each, with every dollar going toward Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and East Tennessee Children’s Hospital through the Regal Foundation.

Harkins Theatres is keeping its run brief, screening both films only on August 29 and 30. Tickets there cost just $6, with proceeds also benefiting the Imagination Library.

What Is ‘Steel Magnolias’ About?

Released in 1989, Steel Magnolias follows a close-knit group of women in a small Louisiana town as they support each other through life’s highs and lows. Parton stars as Truvy, a local beauty parlor owner, alongside Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis and Daryl Hannah. 

Directed by Herbert Ross and based on Robert Harling‘s 1987 play, the film earned Roberts a Supporting Actress Oscar nomination and grossed $86.4 million domestically, according to Deadline.

What Is ‘The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas’ About? Best Little Whorehouse In Texas – Nashville Premiere

(Photo by R. Diamond/Getty Images)

In this 1982 film, Parton plays Miss Mona, the owner of a Texas brothel targeted by a television personality’s moral crusade, played by Dom DeLuise. The role earned Parton a Golden Globe nomination. The film, also starring Burt Reynolds, Charles Durning and Jim Nabors, was directed by Colin Higgins and grossed close to $70 million domestically, according to Taste of Country.

While best known for her decades-spanning music career and philanthropy, Parton made a lasting, if smaller, mark in Hollywood. She earned two Original Song Oscar nominations, for “9 to 5,” from the 1981 film of the same name and “Travelin’ Thru,” from 2006’s Transamerica.

Be wary of what gets searched when looking up Ted Nugent’s “Cat Scratch Fever,” which wasn’t only the title of his charting track, but also of a very rare disease.

After the rock band the Amboy Dukes dissolved, Nugent embarked on a solo career in the mid 1970s. He released two albums before Cat Scratch Fever in 1977 that would include one of his signature and most well-known tracks of his career. “Cat Scratch Fever” became known for its impressive guitar riff and was even once ranked among the best hard rock songs of all time.

The song’s popularity led the song to enter the Billboard Hot 100 chart at No. 30 and had similar success in Canada. Beyond its sounds, it’s safe to say that “Cat Scratch Fever” gained fame for another reason.

“I had seen a medical journal back in 1975, I opened it up and at the top, it said, ‘cat scratch fever.’ I’d never heard of that before. What’s that? So later on, that lick was cataloged in my memory bank. I went, ‘Cat Scratch Fever!’ and I had fun with the lyrics,” he explained to Ultimate Classic Rock.

“Cat Scratch Fever” is a real medical disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic. While very rare, it’s a bacterial infection that occurs from a cat scratch or bite. The animal is first infected by the bacteria (B. henselae) from flea bites. In humans, the symptoms include a rash or bumps on the skin, swollen lymph nodes, and a fever. The disease is reportedly harmless and can go away in a few weeks or months.

Nugent’s track alluded to the disease with lyrics like “I got it from some kitty next door,” and “I got it bad scratch fever. Cat Scratch Fever.” The track quickly rose to popularity, especially its guitar riff among other guitarists over the years. Nugent told Professor of Rock that “it’s what every guitar player wants to do.”

According to reports, the heavy 3-tone minor-key riff came about while Nugent was backstage in his dressing room. His producer at the time heard him play the riff, with Nugent reportedly saying it would become a hit.

“Cat Scratch Fever”‘s infectious riff would end up being covered by hit rock bands like Pantera for their Detroit Rock City soundtrack. Their version peaked at No. 40 on the Mainstream Rock chart, but it would end up being criticized by Nugent for being “exceedingly white.” Motörhead covered the track in 1992, as did bands like Fudge Tunnel and Epic Party Band.

Related: 1978 Soft Rock Hit, Sung by Moody Blues Singer Justin Hayward, Is Still a Beloved Ballad 48 Years Later

The investigation into the death of Hayden Panettiere continues as federal agents visited her home with a search warrant.

According to a new report from Us Weekly, an eyewitness inside Panettiere’s West Hollywood complex saw six federal agents enter the actress’s home on Tuesday, August 25.

The beloved Ice Princess actress was found unresponsive inside an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, on Sunday, August 16. Despite efforts to resuscitate her, Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene.

An initial autopsy found “no signs of trauma” or foul play, but the investigation remains ongoing.

“Hayden’s death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed,” Sloan Ellis, the lawyer for Panettiere’s on-again, off-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson—who was present at the time of her death, told Us Weekly. “As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play. Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.”

Her father, Skip Panettiere, confirmed the news of his daughter’s passing in a statement to ABC News.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” he said. “She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen.”

Hayden was 36 years old at the time of her death.

Paul McCartney is no stranger to being on top. But even now, more than six decades after The Beatles scored their very first No. 1 with “Please Please Me” in the U.K., the man is still a chart giant.

His latest triumph comes in the form of a music film titled Paul McCartney: Man on the Run. Directed by Morgan Neville, the documentary, which chronicles the former Beatle’s musical journey after leaving the “most important rock band of all time,” is currently sitting at the top of Rotten Tomatoes’ Best New Movies of 2026.

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Following its successful film-festival run, the documentary received a two-day worldwide theatrical release beginning Feb. 19 before arriving on Prime Video Feb. 27. Picking up in the aftermath of The Beatles’ breakup, the film focuses on McCartney’s turbulent and transformative next chapter, specifically his emotional healing from the band’s breakup, his retreat to Scotland, and the rise of his new band, Wings.

“Man on the Run is more about the man than it is about his creative process,” NPR wrote in its review. “But his music runs all through the documentary, and it all adds up to an impressive, inspirational second act.”

“In Morgan Neville’s intimate and insightful musical doc, Paul McCartney finds his musical wings without the Beatles, but with wife Linda riding shotgun and teaching him about hard-to-reach places in the heart,” renowned fil critic Peter Trevers wrote.

“So this is really a movie for hard-core McCartney (or Wings) fans who want to see all of the rare archival footage—or, conversely, for curious newbies who want a fast-paced introduction to one of the most talented songwriters of all time,” The New York Times shared.

The film boasts a perfect 100% from critics. In comparison, audiences have given it a solid 83%, with raves for the film’s archival footage, Linda McCartney’s photography, and interviews with Mick Jagger, Chrissie Hynde, Sean Ono Lennon, and Paul himself.

“I don’t normally spend a lot of time looking back, but I was flattered when Morgan said he was interested in this period,” McCartney shared on his website about the film. “The first bit of Wings was quite hard work and not very rewarding, but eventually we got some songs under our belts that were hits. Morgan got me to think about stuff I hadn’t thought about for a long time. He was asking all the right questions, and I was happy to be transported back.”

Following The Beatles’ breakup in 1970, McCartney fell into a period of depression and heavy drinking before eventually launching his hugely successful solo and band career with Wings. He topped the charts with major hits like “Band on the Run,” “Live and Let Die,” and “Silly Love Songs.”

The legendary singer-songwriter continues to climb the charts to this day—on and off the screen. His latest music hit, “Days We Left Behind,” from his spring 2026 album, The Boys of Dungeon Lane, peaked at No. 17 on the U.K.’s Official Singles Downloads and No. 18 on its Official Singles Sales charts.

Its parent album reached No. 1 on the Official Albums Chart, giving McCartney his 24th U.K. No. 1 and extending his streak as the most successful act in Official Chart history. The only way is up with this guy.

Related: ’70s Rock Legend Returns to the Stage After More Than a Year With  ‘A Great Night Out’ Tour

Fans of Jim Henson’s Muppets who grew up on The Muppet Show, various TV specials, and films starring the beloved characters, are joining Kermit and company in mourning the passing of three legendary members of their rainbow connection. Earlier this week, the world lost its living saint Dolly Parton, the larger-than-life Tim Curry, and the comedic charm of Jaye P. Morgan.

The last three posts on The Muppets’ official Instagram are beautiful eulogies to their friendship with greats who have a deep legacy in Muppet history.

Tim Curry’s 1996 performance in Muppet Treasure Island as Long John Silver stands up there with The Rocky Horror Picture Show’s Frank-N-Furter and Hexxus in FernGully as one of his most iconic roles. The actor’s chemistry with the Muppets, and yes, with Miss Piggy, made him an all-time co-star and such a formative part of so many childhoods that were first introduced to Curry in all his pirate glory.

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Here’s how The Muppets remembered their crew mate: “Few humans have earned the title of honorary Muppet more than the legendary Tim Curry. As a performer, he was unparalleled – witty, charming, unnerving, and deeply funny.” the Instagram post read,
“We will always consider it one of our greatest treasures to have been part of Long John Silver’s crew. Thank you for everything, Tim.”

Related: Your Dolly Parton Song, Based on Birth Month

While Dolly Parton surprisingly never appeared on The Muppet Show, the Muppets actually were recurring guests on her variety show, Dolly!, in skits and musical moments during the 80’s. Who can forget the playful diva-offs between Miss Piggy and Dolly? We surely won’t. Then there’s one of the greatest moments in television history where Muppets creator Jim Henson got to share the stage with Parton as Kermit for a performance of “Everyday People”. Parton would continue to collaborate with Kermit and company, becoming an honorary muppet in 1986, and would share a special performance of “Islands in the Stream” in 2012 with her friends. A moment that was recently homaged on The Muppet Show special, where Sabrina Carpenter sang the song in a sketch with Kermit and Miss Piggy.

On Instagram, The Muppets wrote: “There will never be another quite like Dolly Parton. She was the ultimate singer, songwriter, actress, performer, and philanthropist. She filled the world with light, and we are so grateful for every second we got to spend with her onstage and off.”

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And lastly, today, the Muppets remembered one of their early collaborators and friends, Jaye P. Morgan. The singer and comedy show guest whose personality matched the Muppets’ chaos in her memorable appearances. On her passing they shared, “Working with the great Jaye P. Morgan on The Muppet Show was a joy. She was an explosive performer who worked her magic on our stage, and we’re so glad to have known her. We’ll miss you, Jaye.”

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It’s such a lovely touch in having these public figures we have grown up with remembered by The Muppets. It’s so heartwarming to see them pay tribute to those who they have teamed up with to share their rainbow connection alongside, and who will forever shine in its colors.