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It’s true — anything can happen in New York City, including getting serenaded over dinner by ’80s sitcom legend Tony Danza, 75. The former Who’s the Boss? recently treated patrons of Manny’s Bistro in Manhattan to an al fresco concert of classic standards. Fans were in awe of his surprise skill as a singer, and Danza's ageless looks.

Tony Danza’s Surprise New York City Performance Delights Fans @whosthebosstonydanza

If you live in New York City , you can see Today Tony Danza for an awesome show 🎶🎶🎶 #tonydanza #singing #newyorkcity #live #fyp

♬ son original - whosthebosstonydanza

Tony Danza is best known for his spot-on comedic timing while playing former baseball player-turned-housekeeper Tony Micelli on Who’s the Boss?, which debuted in 1984. A former boxer himself, Danza is a man of many talents — singing being one of them.

Video recently shared to social media captures Danza doing what he was clearly born to do: joyfully entertaining people. Wearing a long-sleeved white T-shirt and jeans, with his dark hair now turned a striking white, Danza perfectly embodies the term “silver fox.”

Danza is a regular at Manny’s Bistro, delighting restaurant goers with covers of classic ’50s and ’60s standards.

Fans were quick to gush over the TV legend’s performance — and his ageless looks — in the social media comment section.

“I LOVE TONY DANZA. HE'S STILL HANDSOME,” exclaimed one commenter.

Another added, “Tony living his best life, he still looks great.”

“Looks great and sounds good too,” shared another fan.

One more commenter wrote, “Love it 🎶🥰 still a great actor and singer.”

Related: 1976 ABBA Best-Seller Originally Called 'Tango' Became a No. 1 Hit 50 Years Ago

Tony Danza’s Career After Who’s the Boss?

First discovered on The Mike Douglas Show, Tony Danza has built a career around his everyman charm and natural performance talent. Who’s the Boss?, which co-starred Judith Light and Alyssa Milano, ended its television run in 1992. Since then, Danza has enjoyed a long and enduring career that blends both acting and music.

Danza has stayed busy across television, Broadway and live performance, even entertaining crowds at a sidewalk bistro simply for the joy of performing.

In addition to starring in the early 2000s legal drama Family Law and hosting his own syndicated talk show, The Tony Danza Show, the multitalented entertainer has also appeared on Broadway in The Producers and Honeymoon in Vegas, among other productions.

Tony Danza’s Singing Career Has Deep Roots

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/J3MtJAn--WE

While some social media commenters were surprised to see footage of Tony Danza singing classic songs on the streets of New York, the television personality is no stranger to performing timeless standards.

In 2022, Danza released the standards album The House I Live In, cementing his long-standing interest in classic pop and traditional vocal styles.

His recent performance — bringing beloved classics to a crowd of thrilled diners — may surprise some fans, but at heart, it’s exactly who Danza is and always has been. Fans may know him best from his charming role on Who’s the Boss?, but at his core, Tony Danza is just here to entertain.

Related: 1969 Hit That 'Started It All' for Beloved Rock Band Is a Timeless Ode to Lost Love

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If you eat a lot of the first category in today's NYT Connections puzzle you'll notice the results in the second category. There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1076 onFriday, May 22, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Friday, May 22, 2026 / New York Times

New York Time

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Friday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Friday, May 22

1. Getting back to you.
2. Don't step out of line.
3. Movin' right along.
4. Sounds like...

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Friday, May 22:

1. REACH BACK OUT: CHECK IN, FOLLOW-UP, RECONNECT, TOUCH BASE
2. THE WAY THINGS ARE DONE: CONVENTION, CUSTOM, SOCIAL NORM, UNWRITTEN RULE
3. PLACES WITH CONVEYORS BELTS: ASSEMBLY LINE, BAGGAGE CLAIM, CHECKOUT LANE, REVOLVING SUSHI BAR
4. STARTING WITH NAME HOMOPHONES: CARRY-ON, EL NINO, LOOSEY-GOOSEY, TAILER-MADE

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Thursday, May 21, 2026

On May 22, 1993, CBS aired Willie Nelson The Big Six-0: An All-Star Birthday Celebration, a star-packed television event that felt less like a birthday party and more like a hall-of-fame concert lineup.

The special celebrated Willie Nelson turning 60, and the guest list was almost unbelievable even by 1990s television standards.

The night featured appearances and performances from Ray Charles, Waylon Jennings, Emmylou Harris, B.B. King, Paul Simon, Travis Tritt, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Lyle Lovett, Bob Dylan, Marty Stuart and Kris Kristofferson.

Looking back now, fans are especially struck by how many legendary artists from completely different corners of music came together for one television special.

"That was a great special," said one Facebook user on a 2025 post by musician Mark O'Connor. "'Pancho and Lefty' from Bob and Willie, a moving 'Hard Times' from Bob, and Paul Simon and Edie Brickell harmonizing brilliantly with Willie on 'Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.' Good job on the accompaniment!"

"Mark O'Connor, this is one of the few times I’ve seen Willie with his hair undone, unbraided," another chimed in.

Country, blues, folk and rock all collided around Nelson, whose influence stretched far beyond Nashville by that point in his career. The special also arrived during a fascinating era for television music events.

In the early 1990s, major broadcast networks still regularly aired large-scale concert specials like this that could pull together enormous audiences and even bigger celebrity rosters.

Today, a lineup like this would likely dominate social media for weeks.

For longtime fans, some of the most memorable moments came from seeing Nelson reunited with his closest collaborators and fellow outlaw country pioneers, including Jennings and Kristofferson. Their easy chemistry reminded viewers why Nelson had become one of the most beloved figures in American music.

More than 30 years later, The Big Six-0 remains a remarkable snapshot of Nelson’s enormous reach across genres and generations, and maybe even more so, proof that very few artists could gather that much musical firepower into one room for a birthday celebration.

RELATED: A Lost 1970s TV Performance Is Stunning Fans Decades Later

Fans of Sinners are about to get thrown directly into the movie’s nightmare.

After becoming one of the biggest horror phenomena that critics called "near-perfect," Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort announced that Sinners is officially coming to Halloween Horror Nights as a fully immersive haunted house experience.

And honestly, this feels like one of the rare modern horror movies that was practically built for Horror Nights.

Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film exploded into a genuine cultural phenomenon after its release, pulling in more than $370 million globally and earning massive praise from both horror fans and critics.

Set in 1930s Mississippi, Sinners follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack (both portrayed by Michael B. Jordan) as they return home to open a juke joint, only for the celebration to spiral into absolute chaos when vampires descend on opening night.

What made the movie hit so hard with audiences wasn’t just the scares.

It was the atmosphere.

The sweat-soaked juke joint. The live music. The Southern Gothic setting.

The growing dread that something evil was slowly creeping into every corner of the room.

The film mixed supernatural horror with music, history and deeply human characters instead of relying only on jump scares, making it the perfect setting for a Horror Nights haunted house.

According to Universal, guests will walk directly into Club Juke and come face-to-face with the film’s terrifying vampires, including Remmick, Bert and Joan, while trying to survive encounters with chaos unfolding around Smoke and Stack.

The house will also feature familiar characters from the film, including Sammie, Annie, Mary, Pearline and Cornbread.

If Horror Nights can successfully recreate the movie’s suffocating tension and eerie blues-club atmosphere, this could easily end up becoming one of the event’s standout houses this year.

Because Sinners never felt like a typical vampire movie in the first place. Which is exactly the kind of energy Horror Nights fans tend to love most.

RELATED: Universal’s New ‘Harry Potter’ Experience Goes Darker Than Ever

In 1970, a nearly seven-minute rock song with hypnotic grooves and extended instrumental jams unexpectedly became a major radio hit.

"Green-Eyed Lady" by Sugarloaf helped launch the group into national fame and became one of the defining rock singles of the early FM radio era even though it never reached No. 1.

Built around swirling organ lines, jazz-influenced instrumentation and a driving bass groove, the song stood apart from many shorter pop singles dominating AM radio at the time.

Written by vocalist and keyboardist Jerry Corbetta, the song was reportedly inspired by his then-girlfriend, whose green eyes became the centerpiece of the track's dreamy, psychedelic lyrics. "She has incredible green eyes and people were always saying stuff like, Corbetta’s green-eyed lady," he said in a 1985 interview.

But, what made "Green-Eyed Lady" especially unusual for a hit single was its length.

The original album version stretched close to seven minutes, filled with extended instrumental passages and improvisational sections that reflected the growing influence of psychedelic rock and jazz-rock fusion at the turn of the decade.

The recording also featured guest vocalist Veeder Van Dorn of Moonrakers, whose additional vocals helped add texture and depth to the song's layered sound. Though Sugarloaf is most closely associated with Corbetta's voice and keyboard work, Van Dorn's contribution became part of the rich musical atmosphere that helped distinguish the track from other rock singles of the era.

Although shorter edits were created for some radio stations, many FM rock stations embraced the longer version, helping the song become a staple of the emerging album-oriented rock format.

That exposure transformed "Green-Eyed Lady" into Sugarloaf’s breakthrough hit and introduced the band to mainstream audiences nationwide.

Despite peaking just shy of No. 1, the song became far more influential than many chart-topping singles of its era. Its mixture of hard rock energy, jazz-inspired musicianship and psychedelic atmosphere helped capture a moment when rock music was becoming more adventurous and expansive.

The song also became closely associated with the rise of FM radio culture, where longer, more experimental tracks had room to thrive outside the constraints of traditional pop programming.

Although Sugarloaf would later score additional hits, "Green-Eyed Lady" remained the band's defining song and one of the most recognizable rock tracks of the early 1970s.

More than 50 years later, the song still feels larger than life, a sprawling, groove-heavy rock classic that proved a nearly seven-minute single could still become a mainstream phenomenon.

Related: 1973 Rock Classic With Iconic Guitar Riff, Never a No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among Best ‘American Rock Songs’ of All Time

Today's NYT Wordle puzzle answer is what happens when two people have the same opinion. 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. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1798 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are two vowels 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 no 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 things relating to the voice.omething.

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 #1798 on Friday, May 22, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Friday, May 22, 2026, is VOCAL.

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

Related: Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1797 on Thursday, May 21, 2026

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The perfect casual summer sandal has to be able to offer at least three things: all-day comfort, durability, and style, and it’s surprisingly not always easy to get all of those in one shoe. Fortunately, Clarks’ Breeze Maye Flat Sandals fit the bill, and Walmart has them on sale for just $33 right now, down from $45. They come in five colors, including black, navy, sand, silver, and white, with sizes ranging from 5 to 12.

The sandals are part of the brand’s popular Cloudsteppers line and feature synthetic uppers, a cushioned footbed, high-density foam cushioning, and a lightweight midsole. The outsole is designed for durability and traction, and the heel height measures 30 millimeters, which gives you a bit of subtle height without being a wedge.

Clarks Breeze Maye Flat Sandals, $33 (was $45) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

These are ideal if you’ve been searching for something more put-together than a basic flip-flop without committing to a pricey pair that you might only wear occasionally. They offer a casual shape with plenty of cushioning to keep you comfortable from morning to night, whether you’re running errands, grabbing brunch, taking a walk, or planning a vacation outfit. And since the price is currently the same across all five colors, you don’t have to hunt through shades to find the best deal.

The sandals boast a consistent five-star rating on Walmart’s site, and the low price point is a huge perk if you’re trying to round out your summer shoe collection without splurging. The cushioning and lightweight feel also make them more practical than a flimsier pair, especially if you need a summer shoe you can reach for daily.

Related: Clarks’ Summer-Ready Sandals Are 'Stylish,' 'Supportive,' and Just $33 at Walmart Ahead of Memorial Day

The silver option is perfect if you want something a little dressier, while the sand and white are great as warm-weather neutrals. Black and navy also work well if you need something darker that can handle frequent wear. You could pair them with lots of closet staples, including linen pants, denim shorts, sundresses, casual maxi skirts, and wide-leg jeans. 

Shop More Deals

• Crocs Baya Clog, $35 (was $50) at Walmart
• Clarks Mira Bay Open Toe Flat Sandal, $60 (was $70) at Walmart
• Clarks Arla Stroll Low Heel Wedge Sandals, $48 (was $60) at Walmart

If your current summer wardrobe situation could use an upgrade, these versatile shoes are a must-have, especially while they’re marked down this low at Walmart ahead of Memorial Day.  Be sure to snag the Clarks Breeze Maye Flat Sandals in your favorite color now before the price goes back up.

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In 1973, a hard rock song built around one unforgettable guitar riff helped define the sound of American arena rock for decades to come.

"Rock Candy" by Montrose was recently ranked among the best American rock songs of all time by Ultimate Classic Rock, further cementing its reputation as one of the most influential heavy rock tracks of the 1970s.

Despite never becoming a No. 1 hit, or even a major mainstream chart smash, the song evolved into a cornerstone of classic rock radio and guitar-driven hard rock.

At the center of the track was guitarist Ronnie Montrose, whose massive riff gave "Rock Candy" its instantly recognizable power. Thick, bluesy and relentlessly aggressive, the guitar work became hugely influential on later hard rock and heavy metal bands. The song also featured an early star-making vocal performance from Sammy Hagar, years before he became one of rock’s biggest frontmen both as a solo artist and later with Van Halen.

"When I was 25 I knocked on Ronnie Montrose’s door and asked if he wanted to start a band with me," Hagar told Louder. "I'd seen Ronnie the night before at a sold-out show Winterland with Edgar Winter, who had the number one album in the country, and so to me he was a big rock star and my ticket to the big time."

"Rock Candy" appeared on Montrose's self-titled debut album, a record that many fans and critics now consider one of the foundational hard rock albums of the decade. While the band never achieved the same commercial dominance as some of their contemporaries, Montrose became enormously respected among musicians because of the group's musicianship, energy and stripped-down heaviness.

The song itself was especially important because of its groove-oriented simplicity. Unlike more elaborate progressive rock songs dominating parts of the early 1970s, "Rock Candy" relied on pure force: pounding drums, swaggering vocals and one crushing riff. Over time, the track became a staple of rock playlists, sports arenas and road-trip soundtracks, helping it endure long after its original release.

"'Rock Candy' is a staple for 99 percent of the shows I’ve done in my life since 1972," Hagar said in a 2021 interview.

Many younger rock fans later discovered the song through its influence on generations of hard rock acts that followed, from 1980s metal bands to modern classic rock revival groups. Its inclusion among the greatest American rock songs of all time reflects how deeply the track shaped guitar-driven rock music, even without massive chart success.

"At the time, as with that whole Montrose record, I had no idea how legendary 'Rock Candy' would be," said Hagar.

More than 50 years later, "Rock Candy" still sounds loud, raw and timeless, a reminder that sometimes a legendary riff matters far more than a No. 1 single.

Related: 1972 Soft Rock Classic Became a Timeless Road Trip Anthem, Despite Never Reaching No. 1

Season 6 of Next Level Chefwas picked up back in February 2025 when FOX renewed the Gordon Ramsay cooking competition, which features professional chefs, social media stars, and home cooks, for two seasons.

What makes Next Level Chef standout is the challenges take place in a three-level structure with the top-level a state-of-the-art kitchen, the middle level a normal kitchen, but the basement kitchen is one where a lot of equipment is missing and doesn’t work, so it’s more of a trial.

In addition to host/mentor Gordon, the series features Nyesha Arrington and Richard Blais, who serve as mentors to their selected team of contestants.

Here’s what we know so far about Season 6 of Next Level Chef.

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What is the release date for Next Level Chef Season 6?

Next Level Chef Season 5 launched its new season on Thursday, Jan. 29 on FOX. Look for Season 6 in January 2027.

What time does Next Level Chef Season 6 air?

Next Level Chef Season will most likely return to its Thursday 8 p.m. ET/PT timeslot.

What network is Next Level Chef Season 6 on?

Next Level Chef airs on FOX with new episodes available to stream the following day on Hulu.

Is there a trailer for Next Level Chef Season 6?

It’s too early for a trailer for Season 6 but keep checking back. As soon as it’s available, we’ll post it.

Who are the mentor chefs on Next Level Chef Season 6?Gordon Ramsay Gordon Ramsay

Photo credit: Gavin Bond/FOX

Gordon Ramsay is a multi-Michelin star chef with myriad accolades not only for his culinary excellence as a chef and restaurateur but also as an Emmy-nominated and BAFTA-winning producer, judge, host and internet sensation.

Renowned for highly successful and award-winning original programming, Ramsay hosts and executive produces Next Level Chef, Hell’s Kitchen,MasterChef, MasterChef Junior and Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars, all of which air on FOX.

He has won two seasons of Next Level Chef: Season 2, Tucker Ricchio and Season 3, Gabi Chappel.

Related: 16 Things You Didn’t Know About Hell’s Kitchen‘s Gordon Ramsay

Nyseha Arrington Nyesha Arrington

Photo credit: Tommy Garcia/FOX

Native Californian Nyesha Arrington, born into a multicultural family, is best known for her accomplishments as a chef, restaurateur, entrepreneur and TV personality. The graduate of the Art Institute of California in Los Angeles is celebrated for her advocacy of using farm fresh, local and responsibly sourced ingredients, and strives to champion her community and create “food that hugs the soul.” She won Season 1 of Next Level Chef with Stephanie "Pyet" Despain.

Richard Blais Richard Blais

Photo credit: Tommy Garcia/FOX

Richard Blais is a successful chef, restaurateur, James Beard Award-nominated cookbook author and TV personality. Recognized as the first winner of cable cooking series Top Chef All-Stars, Blais is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and trained at The French Laundry, Daniel, Chez Panisse and el Bulli. He opened Ember & Rye at the renovated Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad, CA, and took on the role of Culinary Director at the newly opened San Diego Symphony performance space, The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. He has won Season 4 with Austin Beckett.

Related: Nyesha Arrington and Richard Blais Promise Never-Before-Seen Twists in Next Level Chef Season 5 (Exclusive)

How does Next Level Chef work?

For Next Level Chef, Gordon designed a one-of-a-kind culinary gauntlet with three tiers, each containing a different level of kitchen. From the top floor state-of-the-art kitchen to the challenging bottom-level basement kitchen, the equipment and ingredients match the environment, because Gordon believes the true test of great chefs is not only what they can do in the best of circumstances, but what magic they can create in the worst.

The cooks are divided into three teams—one headed by Gordon, one by Nyesha and one by Richard—and each week each team competes to produce the best dish, which puts them in the top-level kitchen. The losing team, of course, has to cook its way out of the basement.

What is the Next Level Chef Season 6 prize?

The prize is $250,000, the title of Next Level Chef and a one-year mentorship with the three judges.

Where does Next Level Chef film?

When it began, Next Level Chef filmed in Las Vegas, NV. But the cooking competition switched locations in Season 3 and moved to Ashford Studios in County Wicklow, Ireland.

Will there be a Season 7 of Next Level Chef?

It is too soon to predict, but with the success the show has had to date, it seems likely.

How can I audition for Next Level Chef?

If you’re a future Next Level Chef, apply online now at NextLevelChefCasting.com! Season 5 has already wrapped, but it’s never too early to fill out the online application for Season 6.

All five seasons of Next Level Chef are streaming on Hulu.

Next, FOX Announces Fall 2026-2027 Schedule, Including Baywatch Reboot

Gotye, a driving force in music in the early 2010s, is celebrating a major milestone.

After delivering one of the most unforgettable songs during the era, the award-winning singer who stepped away from stardom is turning 46 today.

Although he is not as visible in the music scene as before, Gotye, whose real name is Wouter De Backer, is actively involved in music with his indie-pop rock band The Basics and is highly engaged in independent music projects.

In celebration of his birthday, let's look back on his breakout hit that cemented his place in music history and why he was labelled as a “one-hit wonder.”

From Unknown Electronic Artist to Grammy Winner to One-Hit Wonder Icon

In 2006, Gotye, who was then an underground electronic artist at the time, had his major breakthrough after releasing his second studio album, Like Drawing Blood.

Thanks to strong support from voters, the local youth radio station Triple J heavily promoted his singles "Learnalilgivinanlovin" and "Hearts a Mess,” making the tracks reach No. 94 and No. 8 on their respective charts.

The buzz led to Gotye achieving commercial success and breaking into the mainstream, earning an ARIA Award, Australia’s major music industry award.

From being a rising star to an Australian indie darling, he transitioned to an international phenomenon after releasing Making Mirrors.

Gotye with Kimbra at the 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards in 2013.

Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

The third album includes his signature song "Somebody That I Used to Know," featuring New Zealand singer Kimbra.

The track not only dominated the music chart with the No. 1 spot for eight weeks straight but also became Billboard’s biggest song of 2012.

In addition, the song made history as the first to simultaneously top the Hot 100, Alternative Songs and Dance Club Songs charts.

The musician told Elle Magazine that he was overwhelmed by the massive public reception and there “have been plenty of moments of surprise over the past years.”

When it comes to performing the track in almost every performance, Gotye revealed that he was “not tired of singing it” but admitted that “it's a challenge to sing” since it requires a lot of concentration.

However, after his massive success and being dubbed the “indie version of Sting,” the 46-year-old singer gradually faded from the spotlight, with his breakout hit “Somebody That I Used to Know” remaining his defining mainstream success.

In a separate interview with the three-time Grammy winner, he once mentioned that being labeled as a “one-hit wonder” will not bother him, but rather thinks that he’d be “in good company” if that were the case.

“I would take a sort of perverse pleasure if a certain part of the public thought of me as a one-hit-wonder,” he shared with NME. “If I go on to never make any music that is as commercially successful as this and that means that there’s a divide between some people’s perception of me in the pop sphere versus me and the actual music that I’ve made, and people actually taking the time to listen to the rest of it, then I think that’s actually kind of interesting.”

Years after his signature song dominated the airwaves, Gotye’s music continues to attract new generations of listeners, keeping his legacy alive beyond a single hit.

Related: 1970 Rock Hit Was Just Ranked 'the Most Tragic Song of the 1970s'

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If you or someone in your life loves Star Wars or LEGOs, this is the kind of find that's sure to impress. The LEGO Star Wars Grogu with Hover Pram Building Toy Set is currently 30% off at Amazon, bringing the price down to $70 from $100. It has 1,048 LEGO pieces and is designed for ages 10 and up, making it suitable for older kids, teens, and adults who want something they can build and keep on display. Once assembled, Grogu sits inside his hover pram, making it a fun piece of decor for a bedroom, office, or game room shelf.

Grogu has dial-operated arms you can move, along with a posable head and ears that let you tweak his expression a bit once the build is finished. The figure can be displayed inside the brick-built hover pram or on its own, and there is also a small information plaque that sits on the base to make it feel more like a collector's piece. It's a great way to celebrate the release of the latest Star Wars film, The Mandalorian and Grogu, which is rolling out to theaters this week.

LEGO Star Wars Grogu with Hover Pram Building Toy Set, $70 (was $100) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The set includes a brick-built Sorgan frog, a shifter knob, and a cookie for Grogu to hold, plus clear step-by-step instructions and access to the LEGO Builder app for anyone who enjoys using digital tools while they build.

Once it's finished, the set is sturdy enough to move from room to room, and the scale makes it easy to fit on a bookshelf or next to other LEGO Star Wars models. It can also sit next to smaller ships and figures from the same universe, so existing collectors can fold it into what they already own.

One shopper wrote, “A must-have for Grogu fans! I really enjoyed putting together all 1,048 pieces and think it is a great value for the price.” They also shared that “the set is very solid and looks great when complete. It will go perfectly with anyone's collection.” Another called it the “perfect gift,” which makes sense for a build that's fun to open and is even better once it's fully on display.

Related: LEGO's Iconic 'Star Wars' Millenium Falcon Set Is Now $68 at Amazon, and It Makes a 'Great Father's Day Gift'

If you are planning ahead for birthdays or Father's Day, this is the kind of deal that makes it much easier to check someone off your list. LEGO Star Wars sets can be on the pricier side, so finding a larger, display-ready model at 30% off is a pleasant surprise. 

Whether you are shopping for a longtime Star Wars fan, a LEGO collector, or someone who just loves Grogu, the LEGO ‘Star Wars’ Grogu with Hover Pram Building Toy Set is an easy buy at just $70. It is the kind of fine that feels fun, ties into a beloved series, and will likely stay out on a shelf long after it's built.

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While on the whole the '70s are known for uplifting disco numbers and epic rock hits, music groups did put out a few quiet, sad tunes in the decade. The publication Far Out recently shared a list of the "five most tragic songs of the 1970s."

The ranking, published on May 21, featured devastating '70s hits likeJim Croce's "Time in a Bottle" and "Fire and Rain" by James Taylor. George Harrison's 1970 song, "Isn't It a Pity," which deals with the end of a partnership, was named the "most tragic song" released in the 1970s. According to the publication, Harrison shared some insight into the lyrics of the song, off his 1970 record All Things Must Pass, while writing his autobiography, I, Me, Mine.

"‘Isn’t It a Pity’ is about whenever a relationship hits a down point. It was a chance to realise that if I felt somebody had let me down, then there’s a good chance I was letting someone else down. We all tend to break each other’s hearts, taking and not giving back," shared the former Beatle in the book, published in 1980.

Harrison played some of the seven-minute song during a 1974 interview on Rock Around the World with Alan Freeman. After he was finished singing, Harrison said the tune was about him "breaking everybody’s heart." When asked to clarify what he meant, the musician, who died in 2001 at the age of 58, replied, "I don’t know."

He then explained that he believed life is full of the "good and bad, positive and negative."

"The mere fact that you embrace good means you’ve laid yourself wide open to the bad because the bad and the good are just part of one whole, like the day and the night," said Harrison during the interview.

He went on to say that there can't be great moments without some unpleasant ones.

"One thing you see everybody out enjoying themselves having a good time. The next minute something goes wrong, and they’re all uptight and shouting and killing each other," continued Harrison.

For the last 30 years, the hit song "Bitch" has largely been attributed to Alanis Morissette —and there's a good reason why.

Released in 1997 by singer-songwriter Meredith Brooks, the alt-rock anthem became one of the year’s biggest radio hits, climbing to No. 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Top 40 chart and earning a Grammy nomination. But despite its success, many listeners long assumed the song was actually recorded by Morissette, thanks in part to the early days of digital music sharing.

"An entire generation of Napster users were convinced the song was an Alanis Morissette deep cut from Jagged Little Pill. Guess because it bore some thematic similarities to 'You Oughta Know' and other songs like that. I guess it had that Alanis vibe," Adam Reader explained in a Thursday, May 21, YouTube video.

He explained, "Because it was mislabeled as Alanis Morissette, tens of thousands of people downloaded and searched the song on Napster as Alanis. To this day, there are still people who think it because it was mislabeled. Brooks would say that she would get stopped at airports by fans confusing her for Alanis and asking her to sign their Alanis CDs."

Despite the mix-up, "Bitch" — which was co-written with Shelly Peiken — remains one of Brooks' biggest hits.

By June 1997, however, just three months after the song's release, Brooks told the Los Angeles Times that the comparison to Alanis had "started to bother" her.

"It has really started to bother me how much these [Morissette comparisons] have been such a focus of everything written about me," she said at the time. "I didn’t think it would be like this."

She added, "It was really starting to bother me a lot more, but I’ve taken a few breaths and thought about it, and now I’m kind of like, 'Oh, well, whatever.' I’ve been flattered in a lot of ways because Alanis really did well, and people love her. I don’t think it’s been a bad thing. And what I’ve found is that once people get into the album, [the comparisons] seem to end."

It was the best of times last week in Little Rock, Arkansas, when ’70s-era rock band Styx lit up a crowd of nearly10,000screaming fans with iconic tracks including “Mr. Roboto,” “Babe,” and “Come Sail Away.” 

Another hit that had fans in a chokehold? The title track and second single released from the band’s 1976 album, Crystal Ball. Written by guitarist and co-lead vocalist Tommy Shaw, the track is a smooth, folk-rock ballad featuring Shaw’s hypnotizing acoustic guitar and soulful, introspective vocals.

@paul_d_wylie

Styx “Crystal Ball” Simmons Bank Arena Little Rock Ar 5/16/26

♬ original sound - paul_d_wylie

In a video uploaded to TikTok, Shaw commands the stage, letting his blond locks frame his face, graphic tee hang loose, and impressive vocals hit all the right notes while the crowd all sing along. Behind him, neon psychedelic graphics play out on a jumbotron. 

“Styx performed ‘Crystal Ball’ at Simmons Bank Arena in Little Rock on May 16, 2026,” the caption for the video reads. “The live rendition captured the classic rock energy fans expect, blending the band’s signature harmonies with a responsive arena crowd.”

The song remains a fan-favorite today, with admirers sharing their respect on social media. Here’s a snapshot of the praise they gave Shaw and company.

“I saw them in ‘78 when Tommy Shaw was an unknown 19 yr old replacement guitarist … HFS 😳😆 Still Awesome,” one wrote. 

“Tommy Shaw is a legend!!👍👍👍,” another commented.

“Styx was a band that over the years I could experience and feel that time hadn’t moved on. They sound so pure like the original versions,” another said.

“They should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!!” yet another wrote.

“If I were there I would be crying tears of joy in the audience,” another shared.

In 1979, Styx scored their one and only No. 1 hit with “Babe,” a tender soft-rock ballad released off their Cornerstone album. It spent two weeks at the top of the chart. Blending progressive rock, power ballads, and arena-rock anthems for decades, the Midwest band continue to prove they have no intentions of slowing down. 

For tour dates and ticket information, hit up their official website.

Related: Grammy-Winning, Soulful Voice Behind Some of Rock’s Biggest ’80s Hits Turns 79

In 1982, John Mellencamp (then performing as John Cougar, from his middle name) wrote a song after being inspired by the Tennessee Williams film, Sweet Bird of Youth. The shape of this song would eventually become the smash hit, "Jack and Diane." Although we all know the final product, Mellencamp has described writing the song and his inital feels about the tune as both "a dumb little song" and "a terrible record to make." Allegedly it took him 30 years to love it.

The iconic song was also notoriously difficult for Mellencamp and his band to record. He said the notable clapping on the song was put there initially just to help everyone stay in time and manage the time changes. He also added about the song, "When I play it on guitar by myself, it sounds great; but I could never get the band to play along with me. That's why the arrangement's so weird. Stopping and starting, it's not very musical."

ln addition to the numerous recording challenges, Mellencamp's record label even took issue with the original song's premise, further complicating its release. Originally, Mellencamp had written the song about an interracial relationship, which the label was fully in opposition of at the time. Mellencamp told The Huffington Post:

"Originally the line was Jack was not a football star, Jack was an African-American. In 1982, when I turned the song in to the record company, they went, ‘Whoa, can’t you make him something other than that?’

"I said, ‘Well, I don’t really want to. I mean, that’s the whole point. This is really a song about race relationships and a white girl being with a black guy, and that’s what the song’s about.’ 

“And they said, ‘No, no, no, no.’ … So, anyway, through much debate and me being young, I said, ‘Okay, we’ll make him a football star.'"

Eventually, producer and guitarist Mick Ronson worked with Mellencamp on the recording and got the track to a place where he was happy with it. Mellencamp has even gone so far as to say that Ronson's involvement saved it from being left in the "junk heap."

The song spent four weeks at number one on the Billboard chart upon release in October of 1982. The publication said of the single, "The hooks here are in the storyline, which traces a blue collar romance 'in the heartland' where Cougar hails from, capped by taut guitar and percussion."

"Jack & Diane" has gone on to be one of Mellencamp's most recognizable songs. When compiling a list of the "Songs of the Century," the Recording Industry Association of American (RIAA) listed "Jack & Diane" as one of the best for the 20th Century.

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Related: John Mellencamp Makes Bold Statement About His Sole Grammy Win

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During the warm summer months, cotton clothing is easy to reach for when you want to keep cool. Naturally airy and breathable, it won't trap heat, and its absorbent properties help keep you dry, even on the sweatiest, stickiest days outside. But pieces made from 100% cotton typically fall into two categories: inexpensive but sheer or high-quality but pricey. That's why we're especially excited to see one of Madewell's highly coveted 100% cotton T-shirt dresses on sale for over 40% off during the retailer's Memorial Day weekend event. 

Normally $88, the Crewneck Mini T-Shirt Dress at Madewell is available for just $52 when you use the code LONGWEEKEND at checkout. Already reduced by 15%, this Memorial Day weekend code gives you an additional 30% off sale styles, saving you $36 on a dress that's sure to be in regular rotation not only throughout the summer, but well into the fall and even next spring as well.

Crewneck Mini T-Shirt Dress, From $52 (was $88) at Madewell

Courtesy of Madewell

Shop at Madewell

A crewneck gives this dress its classic T-shirt shape, while drop shoulders and slightly oversized short sleeves add a relaxed feel. The mini-length hemline hits at the mid-thigh, but shoppers who purchased their usual size said they didn't feel as if the dress were too short. 

It comes in two styles — retro blue stripes on a white backdrop or navy with white stripes — both perfect for summer with coastal-chic vibes and a touch of nautical charm. Throw this dress in your suitcase for vacation, pair it with your favorite sandals for a night out, or wear it with sneakers for a sportier look. The T-shirt dress style is incredibly versatile and easy to layer with a sweater or light jacket when the temperature drops.

This dress is machine-washable, but as someone who tries to purchase natural fabrics whenever possible, I can attest to the fact that many 100% cotton garments are prone to shrinking when put in the dryer. While Madewell clothing is known for its high quality, it's still likely a good idea to lay this dress flat to dry to preserve the fabric long-term.

Related: Columbia’s 'Comfortable' $36 Sandals Have 'Great Arch Support' and Are 'Perfect for Summer Travels'

"I immediately fell in love with this dress," one reviewer raved, calling it "very flattering." The same shopper was so impressed by the "perfect" fit and length of this dress that they purchased it in both colors.

Made with "really nice thick cotton" fabric that "gives good coverage and doesn’t feel flimsy," shoppers noted that they had "no concerns about the dress being too sheer," even in the lighter white-and-blue-striped colorway.

Shop More Deals

• Northside Vintage Tee, $21 (was $28) at Madewell
• Smocked Short-Sleeve Top, From $14 (was $60) at Madewell
• Tie-Back Shell Top in 100% Linen, $49 (was $88) at Madewell

Madewell's Memorial Day sale ends May 26, so be sure to add the Crewneck Mini T-Shirt Dress to your cart while you still can! Don't forget to enter the code LONGWEEKEND at checkout to get the discounted price.

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.

Today's Mini Crossword takes a few twists and turns. And if you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Friday, May 22, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Friday, May 22, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: "___ Birds" (Hitchcock film that suggests this puzzle's theme) — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

4 Across: Loudly brag —HINT: Ends with the letter "W"

5 Stretch out one's neck  — HINT: Ends with the letter "K"

6 Across: Advocate of war — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

7 Across: Test for fifth-year Hogwarts students — HINT: Ends with the letter "L"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Fish using a large net — HINT: Ends with the letter "L"

2 Down: Call from a Canada goose — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

3 Down: Female sheep — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

4 Down: Stick in one's ___ (bird-related idiom) — HINT: Ends with the letter "W"

5 Down: Comedian Margaret — HINT: Starts with the letter "C"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Friday, May 22, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: "___ Birds" (Hitchcock film that suggests this puzzle's theme) —THE

4 Across: Loudly brag — CROW

5 Across: Stretch out one's neck  — CRANE

6 Across: Advocate of war — HAWK

7 Across: Test for fifth-year Hogwarts students — OWL

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Fish using a large net —TRAWL

2 Down: Call from a Canada goose —HONK

3 Down: Female sheep —EWE

4 Down: Stick in one's ___ (bird-related idiom) —CRAW

5 Down: Comedian Margaret —CHO

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Today, Thursday, May 21, 2026

A little less than one week before his sudden death, Kyle Busch made a comment that NASCAR fans now say feels heartbreakingly prophetic.

Following his win at the 2026 Ecosave 200 at Dover Motor Speedway on Friday, May 15, Busch reflected on the moment during a post-race interview with Fox Sports. The victory marked the 69th NASCAR Truck Series win of his career, extending his record for the most wins in the series’ history.

But it was one particular line from the interview that quickly began circulating online after news broke of Busch’s death at age 41.

“Because you never know when the last one is, you know?” Busch said while explaining why race wins never stop feeling meaningful. “I know all too well, unfortunately, with the Cup stuff, but here with the truck stuff, right now, it's awesome just to be a part of Spire Motorsports.”

“Because you never know when the last one is”

- Kyle Busch, last week

Wow pic.twitter.com/vIkBsD9zL3

— Old Row Sports (@OldRowSports) May 21, 2026

He continued, “Love coming to Dover, always one of my favorite places to race. Thanks to all the fans, appreciate everybody for being here at Dover, and the Monster Mile for All-Star Weekend. We thank you.”

READ MORE: Kyle Busch Cause of Death: What We Know So Far

Following Busch’s sudden death days later on Thursday, May 21, fans are viewing the interview in a very different light.

“He said this just 6 days ago… Unreal,” one fan repliedon X.

Another noted, “This was very prophetic of him to say you never know when your last race would be.”

“These words carry a way different meaning and weight now…” a third said.

While the Dover win was Busch’s final victory, it was not his final race. The two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion competed one last time in the 2026 NASCAR All-Star Race at Dover on Sunday, where he placed #24.

Busch’s death was announced Thursday after he was reportedly hospitalized with what his family described as a severe illness. An official cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed.

The tragedy also came shortly after another concerning health moment earlier in the month. During a race weekend at Watkins Glen on May 11, Busch was heard over team radio requesting medical assistance after battling what was described as a severe sinus cold.

Blackberry Smoke shows no signs of slowing down after dropping the announcement regarding its 25th Anniversary Tour.

The Southern rock band, known for its fan-favorite track “One Horse Town,” teased fans with major changes for its upcoming lineup.

The quartet, consisting of core members Charlie Starr on lead vocals and lead guitar, Paul Jackson on guitar and backing vocals, Richard Turner on bass guitar and Brandon Still on keyboards, has officially kicked off the Rattle, Ramble and Roll Tour on February 5 in Indiana, but following the tour’s launch, the band confirmed it was adding more shows in four different locations.

Richard Turner, Kent Aberle, Charlie Starr, Benji Shanks, Brandon Still and Paul Jackson of Blackberry Smoke are seen at SiriusXM Studios on June 20, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Jason Kempin/Getty Images

In an Instagram post, Blackberry Smoke announced it would perform in Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan and Connecticut for selected dates in August and September.

“New dates added! Check it out y’all: 8/28 - Des Moines, IA @hoytshermanplace8/29 - Marshfield, WI , @1centralwisconsinstatefair, 8/30 - Paw Paw, MI @warnervinyardspawpaw, 9/9 - Torrington, CT @warnertheatrect. Central Wisconsin State Fair on sale NOW! The caption reads.

For the Iowa, Michigan and Connecticut shows, the band announced that the ticket presales have officially begun and fans can sign up on its official website for updates.

View this post on Instagram

Blackberry Smoke, who have been on the road since February for its North American Tour, is set to conclude the run this September.

For June, the band will cover major cities in the Southwest and California, followed by the Pacific Northwest and Mountain West.

As mentioned, the ongoing tour was in support of the band’s 25 years together and the release of Rattle, Ramble & Roll: The Best of Blackberry Smoke - Volume One, which features a curated collection of 22 tracks from across their 25-year career.

The compilation album was released in 2025 through their own label, 3 Legged Records.

2026 Rattle, Ramble and Roll Tour

• June 4: The Rialto Theatre – Tucson, AZ
• June 5: We-Ko-Pa Casino – Fort McDowell, AZ
• June 6: Belly Up Tavern – Solana Beach, CA
• June 7: Belly Up Tavern – Solana Beach, CA
• June 9: Uptown Theatre – Napa, CA 

• June 11: Revolution Hall – Portland, OR
• June 12: EQC Event Center at Emerald Queen Casino – Tacoma, WA
• June 13: Spokane Live – Airway Heights, WA
• June 14: Knitting Factory – Boise, ID
• June 16: The Old Saloon – Emigrant, MT
• June 17: The Lincoln – Cheyenne, WY
• June 18: Arvada Center Outdoor Amphitheatre – Arvada, CO
• June 28: Rock, Ribs & Ridges Festival – Augusta, NJ 

• Aug 1: Capitol Theatre – Davenport, IA
• Aug 2: EPIC Event Center – Green Bay, WI
• Aug 4: Mayo Civic Center Presentation Hall – Rochester, MN
• Aug 6: Steelhouse Omaha – Omaha, NE
• Aug 7: Full Throttle Saloon – Sturgis, SD
• Aug 13: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park – Rochester, NY
• Aug 14: Agora Theatre – Cleveland, OH
• Aug 15 & 16: The Machine Shop – Flint, MI
• Aug 28: Hoyt Sherman Place – Des Moines, IA
• Aug 29: Central Wisconsin State Fair – Marshfield, WI
• Aug 30: Warner Vineyards – Paw Paw, MI

• Sept 4: Innsbrook Pavilion – Glen Allen, VA
• Sept 5: Capital One Hall – Tysons, VA
• Sept 6: Santander Performing Arts Center – Reading, PA
• Sept 9: Warner Theatre (The Oneglia Auditorium) – Torrington, CT
• Sept 10: State Theatre – Portland, ME
• Sept 12: Tim Horton's Southside Shuffle – Mississauga, ON
• Sept 15: HISTORY Ottawa – Ottawa, ON
• Sept 17: Harvest Music Festival – Fredericton, NB
• Sept 18: Paramount Theatre – Rutland, VT
• Sept 19: Ulster Performing Arts Center – Kingston, NY

Related: '80s Rock Band, Disbanded After Two Years, Ranked Among Failed Supergroups

For as long as time, travel has revolved around a particularly predictable summer staple: sun-swathed sandy beaches. But according to recent booking data from United Airlines, a growing number of travelers are hitting the skies to see the skies this year. They still may visit a beach—from Jökulsárlón Diamond Beach in Iceland to the Haukland and Skagsanden beaches of Norway's Lofoten Islands—not necessarily to sit in the sand or swim in the sea but, instead, to stare at the sky.

United reported rising demand connected to major cultural and natural events, including celestial phenomena like meteor showers, eclipses, and the Northern Lights. The trend points to the popularity of "astro tourism," which is travel centered around rare events happening overhead.

And astro tourism is not just a niche hobby for astronomy aficionados. Sky stuff is becoming one of the biggest experience-driven trends in tourism.

Travelers are flying to see rare celestial events

In recent years, events like the total solar eclipse and intense Northern Lights displays have proven capable of driving massive travel demand. Unlike traditional attractions, celestial events come with a sense of urgency. If the weather interferes or travelers miss the moment, they may not get another chance for years—if ever again in their lifetime.

During the 2024 eclipse across North America, hotels in prime viewing areas sold out months in advance, flights surged, and travelers flooded small towns positioned along the eclipse's path of totality. Many people traveled specifically for the chance to experience the eerie mid-day darkness in person.

Today, travelers are increasingly planning trips around this year's meteor showers like the August Perseids (when U.S. sky-watchers could observe up to 100 or more shooting stars per hour), November and December supermoons, and rare planetary alignments.

Bookings for United Airlines flights—which head to 35 destinations within the upcoming August 12 total solar eclipse's path of totality—are up more than 50% to destinations like Santiago de Compostela, Bilbao, Palma de Mallorca, Madrid, and Barcelona, Spain, as well as Reykjavík, Iceland, and Nuuk, Greenland, ahead of the eclipse.

"Whether travelers are flying to witness a solar eclipse, cheer on their team or see their favorite artist live, our goal is to provide convenient flight options and a seamless travel experience, making it easy for them to get wherever they want go around the world," Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances, said in a press release. "With the largest global route network—and the most flights across the Atlantic and Pacific—we're connecting customers to the moments that matter most this summer."

Another big draw for astro tourists is witnessing aurora activity, which experts expect to be especially strong this year and, according to an Expedia survey, is one of the world's most sought-after bucket-list items. Travelers can anticipate the strongest aurora activity in the last decade, due to Solar Cycle 25, as the sun approaches a period of heightened solar activity known as the "solar maximum."

Destinations such as Iceland, Norway, Finland, Alaska, and parts of Canada have seen growing interest from travelers hoping to get a glimpse of the glowing green and purple skies for themselves. Norway even unveiled the world's first-ever glass-roof night train to take travelers on a journey beneath the dancing neon lights.

Remote areas around the world with little light pollution—from Utah's national parks to Chile's Atacama Desert—are drawing travelers specifically for stargazing opportunities, with some even opening up official Dark Sky Parks and reserves. Hotels in these dark-sky destinations are responding by offering aurora wake-up calls, guided night-sky excursions, telescope experiences, and glass-roof accommodations designed specifically for sky viewing.

Travelers crave deeply meaningful experiences

The rise of astro tourism reflects a larger shift happening across the travel industry. Increasingly, people are prioritizing experiences that feel infinitely memorable and difficult to replicate. Instead of simply choosing a destination of interest first and finding experiences there, many travelers are choosing an experience and researching destinations that can provide them with that experience.

Travelers crave more than just lounging on the beach. A Priceline study suggests they want immersive and energizing experiences, whether they're snorkeling around coral reefs, hiking jungle trails down to the beach, surfing along craggy coastlines, or stargazing from the sand.

Related: Travelers Are Trading Lounge Chairs for Adrenaline in the ‘Expedition Beach’ Boom

Whatever the case, American Express research finds that, for 83% of today's travelers, authenticity is the priority. They want experiences and stays that feel seriously special. They also want stories to tell long after the experience is over. Eighty-two percent of Millennials and Gen Zers, in particular, are considered "lore chasers" who are likely to travel for something completely out of the ordinary if it makes for a good story.

It makes sense, after all. Social storytelling platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are now the most influential source of travel inspiration—even more impactful than review platforms and official travel sites. Travelers are eager to share their stories of otherworldly night skies on social media, and social media users are eager to get out and experience it all for themselves.

In many ways, sky-based travel also taps into something much deeper. Watching an eclipse occur before your eyes or standing beneath a star-studded sky offers a sense of awe that feels increasingly rare in everyday life. Nature, after all, satiates the soul.