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Dolly Parton has spent more than 50 years brushing off tabloid gossip with a wink and a smile. But back in 1976, even she had a limit.

When the rumor mill got too personal, Parton did what she does best: she picked up her guitar and wrote a song about it. Now, the country icon is looking back on the moment she decided enough was enough, and why, even decades later, she has no regrets about calling out the tabloids on her own terms.

In a new Substack post, Parton reveals that even her most frustrating brushes with the tabloids found their way into her songwriting.

“Shattered Image” was written by the country superstar in the mid-1970s in response to the tabloid stories. But what pushed Parton too far was when her family and friends were targeted.

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She explained, “I think ‘Shattered Image’ is a song that so many people relate to, especially in show business. Because it’s more about how, well, you don’t have to be in show business for somebody to shatter your image or ruin your reputation. But when I wrote that song, that was back during the early days when I was just really not used to people saying bad things about me, especially if they weren’t true.”

She continued, “Some of them are true. And a lot of those stories in the tabloids, like I’ve always said, they’re based on some thread of truth, but usually it’s so frayed by the time they get done with it, you don’t hardly even recognize it.”

“But I don’t mind so much what they say about me as much as it hurts other people, and I hate that. I can handle it myself by saying what I say, doing what I do, and saying I don’t deny nor admit anything. But when they drag other people into it,” the country legend clarified.

Dolly Parton/Jason Kempin/Getty Images

Jason Kempin/Getty Images

She wrote, “But that ‘Shattered Image,’ you know, it’s like: ‘I used to sit for hours as a kid and dangle my feet from an old flat bridge, seeing myself in the water below, shattering my image with the stones I’d throw. A long time gone and a long time ago, when I shattered my image with the stones I’d throw. The world is cruel, and people are cold. Now they shatter my image with the stones they throw.’”

Parton concluded, “And I really think it’s like, ‘I’m far from perfect, but I ain’t all bad. And it hurts me more than it makes me mad. We all do things that we don’t want told. And we all throw stones that we shouldn’t throw.’”

Her 2020 book, Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics, traced the origins of some of her most beloved songs. Part memoir, part songbook, it blended the life fans saw on stage with the personal history that inspired it.

Dolly Parton’s latest Substack post continues to look back on some of her most beloved songs, including the 1976 song born out of pure frustration when the tabloids wouldn’t leave her alone.

Related: Dolly Parton Shares an Emotional Look Back at a Lifetime in Music: ‘Everything I Am Starts With the Song’

For many travelers over 60, a cruise represents the ultimate stress-free getaway—a chance to unpack once while visiting multiple destinations in total comfort. However, when it comes to deciding where you will actually rest your head, it is easy to assume that any cabin will do.

Many vacationers focus their time and energy on planning shore excursions or choosing dining packages, viewing the stateroom as little more than a cozy closet to store luggage, shower, and sleep between busy days at sea.

Unfortunately, choosing the wrong stateroom is one of the most common ways to derail an otherwise wonderful trip. As daily itineraries fill up and the hustle and bustle of a busy ship sets in, having a quiet, comfortable sanctuary to retreat to becomes essential.

Fortunately, avoiding cabin regret is straightforward if you know where to prioritize your budget. By focusing on a few key upgrades that enhance space, accessibility, and overall relaxation, you can elevate your entire ocean experience.

Related: The Golden Rules of Stress-Free Cruising, According to a Lifelong Traveler

The Stateroom Upgrade Travelers Over 60 Should Never Skip

While younger passengers often view their room as a simple crash pad between shipboard activities, ocean views and private outdoor space take on a much higher priority for mature travelers. Having a dedicated spot to enjoy fresh air, morning light, and quiet sea views fundamentally upgrades the pace of your trip—turning brief moments of downtime into memorable highlights instead of feeling stuck inside.

“In my opinion, a balcony cabin is non-negotiable,” says Fora Advisor Julie Crotts. “Travelers in their 60s use the cabin more than they expect: for a rest before dinner, coffee before the ship wakes up, or on a port day they decide to skip. A balcony turns that downtime into part of the vacation instead of being confined to a dark room.”

Fellow Fora Advisor Lisa Roah agrees that mature voyagers are increasingly prioritizing comfort: “I find that most of my older clients want all these options—if they are taking the cruise, they want to do it right!”

Related: We Asked 3 Travel Advisors Their Favorite Multi-Generational Cruise—The Top Two Choices Shouldn’t Surprise Anyone

The #1 Cabin Regret

Skipping an exterior view is the most frequent source of buyer’s remorse.

“Nobody has ever told me they regretted paying for a balcony. However, I hear the opposite constantly,” Crotts notes. “This usually occurs somewhere around day three, from a couple in an interior cabin who assumed they’d never be in the cabin. Trust me, you will spend more time in the cabin than you think, even if you are an active traveler.”

Roah adds that experienced travelers rarely look backward: “So far, my mature cruisers typically opt for the suites or concierge level.”

Related: We Asked 3 Travel Advisors for the Most Scenic Way to Visit Canada in Fall—They All Said the Same Thing

The Surprising Upgrade That Matters

While sweeping ocean views get all the glory, the functional layout of the cabin’s bathroom is where upgrades pay off most in daily comfort.

“A larger bathroom because storage is often overlooked,” Crotts emphasizes. “Travelers in this group tend to arrive with a full home routine that includes skincare, supplements, or home medical devices. A standard cruise bathroom offers one small shelf and a mirror cabinet, making storage space a premium. Additionally, two people getting ready for the same dinner reservation in that space gets old quickly. Upgrading to more cabin space, but specifically in the bathroom, provides a big boost to quality-of-life.”

Roah highlights that premium touches make a noticeable impact: “Clients like a tub option and a butler/concierge service.”

Related: We Asked 4 Travel Advisors for Their No. 1 Tip for Choosing a Luxury Cruise—They All Agreed on This

Running the Math on Suites

Before writing off a suite or concierge-level cabin as an extravagance, experts recommend doing simple vacation math.

“Price the upgrade against what you’d buy anyway,” Crotts advises. “Most suite and concierge tiers bundle in things people purchase separately like drink packages, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, or priority boarding. Add those up at their standalone cost. I’ve had plenty of clients where the upgrade costs less than buying the pieces à la carte, making it an easy yes.”

Splurging on an upgraded tier is also a game-changer when sailing with extended family on mega-resort ships.

“If the family has chosen a ship built for a broad age range, like Royal Caribbean or Norwegian, then paying up for a suite changes the trip,” Crotts explains. “You get a private area to retreat to, more exclusive dining, and a way to step away from the parts of the ship geared toward younger families. You’re still together for everything that matters; you just aren’t trapped in the middle of it.”

Roah points directly to ship-within-a-ship concepts: “On Norwegian, the Haven is absolutely worth the upgrade.”

Related: Is a Balcony Cabin Worth the Upgrade? This Cruise Expert Says It Depends on One Thing

Whole Foods is one of my favorite places to shop for produce. Although the store tends to get flack for high prices (seriously, I never need to hear a “Whole Paycheck” joke ever again), there are a few parts of the store where you actually can find really good deals—including the produce section.

Whichever Whole Foods I go to, I can always count on the produce section to have plenty of options, ranging from the basics like apples and broccoli to items I’d only buy on special occasions, like dragon fruit and trumpet mushrooms.

Something else I love about Whole Foods’ produce section is how much of it is package-free. I prefer to buy loose produce as much as possible, as it reduces packaging waste as well as food waste (since you can buy the exact amount of carrots you need, rather than a huge bag of carrots that will ultimately lead to wasted food). So for certain items that are typically sold in plastic packaging, I can often rely on Whole Foods to have a “naked” option.

All that being said, I’ve bought a lot of fruit and veg at Whole Foods over the years, so I’ve compiled a list of which produce I recommend buying at Whole Foods, and which produce I recommend skipping. Keep reading for the full list!

Related: 7 Best Items To Buy From Costco’s Produce Section (and 5 To Skip)

7 Best Items To Buy From Whole Foods’ Produce Section

If you’re in Whole Foods’ produce section, these are some of the best items to look out for.

1. Medium Hass Avocado

Sophie Hirsh

This avocado is my No. 1 example of Whole Foods’ produce section actually having good prices. The Medium Hass Avocado is often on sale at four for $5, which comes out to $1.25 each—plus 10% extra off if you’re an Amazon Prime member.

2. Organic Cauliflower Florets

Sophie Hirsh

Cauliflower is one of those veggies that’s near impossible to find without packaging—and even when you do, cutting up a cauliflower is pretty challenging, not to mention messy. So, when I’m in the mood for some cauli, I often opt for the Organic Cauliflower Florets, which are washed and ready to use.

3. Hippie Organics Organic Asparagus

Sophie Hirsh

In some stores, bundles of asparagus are huge—and maybe it’s just because I live alone, but I would never be able to eat all that asparagus in a week! So I appreciate that the Hippie Organics Organic Asparagus isn’t too big. I also like that it’s organically grown and that the ends are already neatly trimmed.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Asparagus Every Day

4. Organic Loose Carrots

You’ll never catch me buying bagged carrots, baby or otherwise. When I need a carrot, I go straight Whole Foods where I can dig for gold in the bin of loose carrots. This way, I’m able to pick the carrots that look best to me, as well as get the exact amount I need without any packaging.

5. Grapery Cotton Candy Grapes

Sophie Hirsh

The Grapery Cotton Candy Grapes are only in season for a few weeks every year, typically between August and September. So whenever I see them at Whole Foods, you better believe they are going into my basket. If you’ve never had cotton candy grapes before, prepare to be amazed, as they really do taste like cotton candy. They’re one of the sweetest fruits I’ve ever tasted and they’re absolutely addictive.

The only drawback is the price. The bag I grabbed at Whole Foods today wound up costing me more than $10! That said, I just ate a bowl of them and I have no regrets.

6. Gotham Greens Butterhead Lettuce

Sophie Hirsh

As a resident of New York City, I love when I come across locally-grown produce in big-box stores—and I can often rely on finding Gotham Greens Butterhead Lettuce at my local Whole Foods. The company grows its lettuce in hydroponic greenhouses in New York (as well as a few other states across the country), which use less water, land and energy than conventional farming, per Gotham Greens.

7. Organic Turmeric Root

Sophie Hirsh

Finding fresh turmeric in a grocery store is a rarity, but Whole Foods often has Organic Turmeric Root in stock. Turmeric has incredible health benefits—namely, it is anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant.

Many doctors will recommend turmeric to patients dealing with inflammation, and interestingly, they often recommend eating turmeric (either fresh or ground) rather than supplementing it, per Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Plus, turmeric adds a gorgeous yellow color to your food, making it a vital ingredient for making tofu scramble, one of my go-to breakfasts.

5 Whole Foods Produce Items Not Worth Buying

Here are five Whole Foods produce items I usually skip.

1. 365 Broccoli Florets

Sophie Hirsh

Unlike its hardier cousin the cauliflower, whole broccoli is super simple to cut up. So when I’m shopping for broccoli at Whole Foods, I always opt for the loose broccoli crowns instead of the 365 Broccoli Florets. Plus, the florets are cut quite large—so when I have bought this bag in the past, I wound up getting out a knife and cutting board anyway so I could make the florets smaller.

2. Pop Its Bite-Sized Cucumbers

Sophie Hirsh

The cucumber shelves in a produce aisle are typically filled with plastic packaging, and Whole Foods is no exception. It’s valid that plastic wrap can keep cucumbers fresh longer, and help customers reduce food waste. However, novelty cucumbers like the Pop Its Bite-Sized Cucumbers seem pretty wasteful, in terms of both packaging and money. Personally, I prefer to buy package-free cucumbers within two days of when I plan to use them, which ensures they stay fresh.

Related: 5 Best Produce Items To Buy at Trader Joe’s (and 4 To Skip)

3. Sunset Organics Biologiques Bell Peppers

Sophie Hirsh

Whenever I take home a mixed bag of bell peppers, I find myself ignoring the ones that aren’t red and letting them rot in the back of my fridge. Personally, I think red bell peppers taste eons better than the orange, yellow and green ones, so for me, it’s not worth buying a mixed bag like the Sunset Organics Biologiques Bell Peppers. So when I’m craving a plate of bell peppers to go with my hummus, I just buy a few loose red bell peppers instead of a bag.

4. Watermelon Quarter

Sophie Hirsh

Look, I get it. Cutting up a whole watermelon is annoying. But man oh man, is it worth it. Every time I buy either pre-cut watermelon or a Watermelon Quarter from the grocery store, I wind up regretting my decision by the time I take the first bite. Watermelon is just never as good when it’s been cut in advance. So whenever I want watermelon, I try to buy the smallest whole watermelon I can find, and I wait to cut it until just before I’m ready to eat or serve it.

5. Organic Yellow Onion Bag

Sophie Hirsh

Maybe it’s just my singleness talking, but who on earth needs this many onions?! Not only does the Organic Yellow Onion Bag come with more onions than I could ever use up in a week, but when produce is prepackaged in a bag, it means you don’t get to pick your exact items. Personally, I like to choose each onion I buy based on exactly how much onion I’d like to use in a recipe, so I always skip the bagged onions.

Plus, instead of white or yellow onions, I usually opt for red onions (the ones that look purple) because they are higher in antioxidants, can reduce inflammation and have other disease-fighting properties, according to Prevention.

Final Takeaways

Whole Foods is a fantastic place to buy fruit and veg, even though it often gets a bad rap for high prices.

• You can find great produce deals at Whole Foods. I recommend buying package-free produce, which is often cheaper than its pre-washed, plastic-wrapped counterparts.
• Whole Foods has unbeatable variety. For people who have more unique items on their grocery lists, from trumpet mushrooms to cotton candy grapes, Whole Foods beats out many other major grocery chains.
• Eco-friendly shoppers can find great options at Whole Foods. If you prefer to buy package-free produce or organic produce, you’ll likely find what you need at Whole Foods. Don’t forget to bring your reusable produce bags and grocery totes!

Up Next:

Related: 9 Items To Buy From Aldi’s Produce Section and 6 To Skip

Sources:

• Reimagining How and Where Fresh Food is Grown. Gotham Greens.
• Turmeric Benefits. Johns Hopkins Medicine

Keke Palmer has a new relationship, and it’s refreshingly loyal.

The actor and entertainer, 32, is teaming up with Panera Bread for its new “Refreshingly Loyal” campaign, which puts a playful spin on the internet’s ongoing fascination with her dating life.

Palmer jokes about finally finding something that gives back before revealing that the “loyal relationship” she’s talking about is actually MyPanera.

Panera Bread

The campaign arrives as Panera launches a revamped MyPanera rewards program nationwide on Aug. 19, giving its more than 70 million members a new way to earn and redeem points.

Rather than earning rewards through a traditional punch-card-style system, members now earn 10 points for every $1 spent and can choose how to redeem those points on Panera menu items.

Rewards start at 250 points, which can be redeemed for a free bagel or mini bakery treat. Members can also save up to 2,000 points for a full entrée of their choice.

And there’s an incentive for members to start earning right away.

To celebrate the launch, new and existing MyPanera members can earn 500 bonus points with their first purchase from Aug. 19 through Sept. 1. That’s enough points for a free Energy Refresher or Fresca.

For a limited time, MyPanera members will also get exclusive access to the new Tropical Mango Pineapple Energy Refresher in the Panera app, which launches alongside the refreshed rewards program.

The new program also includes three membership tiers: the free MyPanera program, MyPanera+ for guests who spend $300 in a calendar year and unlock additional perks, and MyPanera+ Sip Club, which includes MyPanera+ benefits along with up to 30 select beverages per month and additional offers.

RELATED: New Gilmore Girls Collectible Is Perfect for Fall TV Rewatches

The Cyrkle were a young band from the 1960’s who had only a few hit tracks that gained them fame, like “Red Rubber Ball,” which was the work of Paul Simon and Bruce Woodley.

There’s quite some backstory behind the band’s major track that landed them at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the charts in Canada. The track was a commercial success and was first introduced to the public when performed on the US TV program Hullabaloo, and became their defining record.

In the 60s, The Cyrkle were still a relatively new band that had yet to release any of their own material. When they landed a record contract with Columbia Records, they joined Brian Epstein under his management. It’s reported that it was one of the Beatles who came up with the band’s unique spelling of their name. It just so happens that the band would hit a snag when guitarist and lead singer Don Dannemann was informed to complete his commitment to the U.S. Coast Guard. As a result, the band went on hiatus.

According to BestClassicBands, member Tom Dawes took up an offer to tour as the bassist for the hit duo Simon & Garfunkel. It was during his time on tour that The Cyrkle was offered “Red Rubber Ball.” In reality, Simon had developed the track alongside Woodley of the band The Seekers, having met him while pursuing his solo career. “Red Rubber Ball” was originally offered to Woodley’s band, but they rejected it

While on tour, Dawes heard Simon playing the track and was interested, with Simon admitting he had no plans other than to record it with Garfunkel. By the time The Cyrkle regrouped in 1966, they were ready to record a hit track.

“It came to us on a scratchy 45, just Paul singing it with a guitar,” Dannemann said, according to Noise11. “Tommy Dawes heard it and said, ‘This is a cute song’. We all listened and thought, ‘Yeah, let’s try it’.”

 “It was the organ lead, the guitar line, my lead vocal and Tommy’s harmony. That combination was The Cyrkle sound. If you heard it, you knew it was us.”

For Dannemann, he often forgot that “Red Rubber Ball” was written by both Simon and Woodley. He found it amazing that Woodley was originally a native Australian and found himself in England, where Simon lived, to create the track. “Red Rubber Ball” would end up being a major meal ticket for The Cyrkle in the ’60s when they were selected to join the Beatles on their final North American tour as their opening act.

The song would end up becoming a staple throughout the 60s, as Neil Diamond released his own cover that same year, as well as the Seekers. Del Shannon, Cliff Richard, and Mel Tormé were among the many artists who released their own versions.

Related: 1973 Blues Song, With Lyrics by Bob Dylan and Bette Midler, Became a Pop Culture Staple

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When messes get too out of control, it’s a sign that your home may be in need of a new storage solution. The Best Choice Products 2-Door Slatted Storage Cabinet offers an easy way to clear the clutter while adding more style and personality. It’s currently available starting at just $90 Walmart and comes in four neutral colors: black, brown, dark brown, and oak. Prices vary by hue, but you won’t pay more than $130 for any option.

The cabinet measures 31.5 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 32.5 inches high and fits into smaller corners while still providing plenty of storage. It has an interior shelf, a bottom shelf, and a top surface that can support up to 165 pounds in total. It’s made from engineered wood with metal legs and includes soft-close hinges, adjustable non-slip foot caps, and an elevated base that makes cleaning underneath easier.

Best Choice Products 2-Door Slatted Storage Cabinet, From $90 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The sharp design adds sleek texture and easily blends into bedroom, bathroom, hallway, or living room decor, making it both stylish and practical. The neatly-placed slats add a retro vibe and elevated style that you’d expect from a designer label. It works well for folded towels, extra bedding, or items that usually end up sitting out because your other closets are already jam-packed. 

Shoppers have called it “beautiful,” “sturdy,” and “well-made,” with several mentioning that it’s “very easy to assemble.” Another reviewer said it’s the “perfect extra storage piece,” noting that it pairs easily with existing furniture.

The cabinet’s versatile, slatted design makes styling such a breeze, especially since it comes in neutral, easy-to-match colors. You can add a lamp, books, or decorative objects on top, so it can double as an accent piece while keeping less attractive items tucked away.

Related: Walmart Is Selling a ‘Sleek’ 6-Tier Farmhouse Bookcase That Looks Designer for $70

Don’t miss your chance to snag the Best Choice Products 2-Door Slatted Storage Cabinet while it’s still available for just $110. It adds practical storage and offers an approachable way to refresh your home for the season while it’s still marked down at Walmart.

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In the 1970s, ABBA found worldwide success with hits such as “Dancing Queen,” “Waterloo,” and “Fernando.” But as the Swedish pop group was entering its final chapter in 1982, band member Anni-Frid Lyngstad, aka Frida, was making her mark as a solo artist.

Frida’s third solo album Something’s Going On featured a major pop hit, fueled by a music video heavily featured on the then-new MTV.

Written by Argent lead singer Russ Ballard, “I Know There’s Something Going On” was driven by Phil Collins’ thunderous drum track and a darker edge that was worlds away from ABBA’s polished pop sound. Ballard penned lyrics about a relationship falling apart—an especially personal subject for Frida, who had recently divorced her husband and ABBA bandmate Benny Anderson.

The song became a worldwide hit and reached No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Frida as a bona fide solo star in the music video era.

Ballard was known as the lead singer and guitarist for the ‘70s rock band Argent, but he was also a prolific songwriter, penning classics for bands such as Rainbow and Three Dog Night.

In an interview with Best Classic Bands, Ballard revealed that he wrote “I Know There’s Something Going On” very quickly.

“To write that whole thing took about an hour,” the musician said. “That’s not bad. I think the best songs of mine have been really, really quick songs.”

While the song was written by Ballard, Collins was brought in to play drums and produce the album. Frida had been determined to get the Genesis legend to help her.

Speaking with the Dutch magazine Weekend, Frida recalled that her daughter introduced her to Collins’ 1981 single “In the Air Tonight.”

“I thought that was a marvelous record,” she shared. “Soon after that I bought his album Face Value. When I had listened to that, I was determined to contact him for a possible collaboration. When I called him eventually with the proposition to produce my solo album and play the drums as well, he was enthusiastic immediately.”

“The result has become totally different from the ABBA-sound, but that was my intention,” Frida added. “For me, it was essential to create my own sound and, despite the fact that I worked with different musicians and in totally different circumstances, I think I succeeded.”

RELATED: 1982 Power Ballad Written by Rock Legends Became Iconic Band’s Only Top 40  Hit

Frida’s Something’s Going On was recorded in February and March of 1982 at Polar Studios in Sweden, according to a post on Collins’ Facebook page. In addition to Collins, musicians such as Daryl Stuermer, Mo Foster, the Martyn Ford Orchestra, Gavyn Wright, Skaila Kanga and the Phenix Horns contributed to the tracks.

Recording the album was freeing for Frida during a transitional period in her life.

“Within ABBA I had to sing the songs that Benny or Björn [Ulvaeus] wrote,” she told Good Morning America in 1982. “But in this case I could choose myself what I wanted to do. From my heart, actually what I wanted to sing, what I wanted to have on the album. Of course, it’s different sound-wise because Phil Collins produced it, and he is also playing the drums.”

Nearly 45 years later, “I Know There’s Something Going On” remains one of Frida’s best-known solo recordings, a pop-rock hit with an irresistible hook that helped make it a timeless classic.

Related: 1976 No. 1 Hit Soft Rock Song Got Its Title in a Truly Unexpected Way

The NFL has made a new announcement ahead of its historic 2026 Melbourne Game, revealing that the cast of A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical will perform a special live rendition of Neil Diamond’s 1969 hit, “Sweet Caroline.”

The performance will be part of the 2026 NFL Melbourne Game, which will see the San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sept. 11.

The announcement, shared on Instagram, adds another major music moment to the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Australia.

“Sweet Caroline” was written and performed by Neil Diamond and was released as a single on May 28, 1969. More than five decades later, the song remains one of Diamond’s best-known recordings and has become a familiar singalong at major sporting events.

Will Swenson and the cast of “A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical” perform onstage during The 76th Annual Tony Awards at United Palace Theater on June 11, 2023 in New York City.

Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions

The NFL has not only brought football to Melbourne for the landmark game. It has also built a full entertainment schedule around the event, including live music, fan activities and the special halftime performance by the Jonas Brothers.

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The cast performance comes as A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical begins its Australian season in Melbourne.

The production opened at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre and marks the first time the musical has been staged outside the United States. Broadway star Will Swenson has returned to play the younger Neil Diamond, while Australian actor Terence Crawford plays Diamond in his later years.

The musical tells the story of Diamond’s life and career through many of his best-known songs. “Sweet Caroline” is included in the production and is presented as part of Diamond’s journey through commercial success and the demands of touring.

The Australian production will continue at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne until Nov. 9, 2026. It will then move to the Lyric Theatre in Sydney beginning Nov. 14.

The special NFL performance will bring the musical’s cast and one of Diamond’s most famous songs to the Melbourne Cricket Ground during a major weekend for American football in Australia.

The 2026 NFL Melbourne Game will take place on Sept.  11, with kickoff scheduled for 10:35 a.m. AEST.

The game will feature the 49ers and Rams in the NFL’s first regular-season matchup held in Australia. Fans around the world will also be able to watch the game, including the Jonas Brothers halftime performance, live on Netflix.

The NFL’s official game-day information says the NFL Stadium Campus in Yarra Park will open at 7:00 a.m. AEST. The wider area will include food and beverage outlets, merchandise, entertainment, sponsor activities, and fan experiences before fans head inside the MCG.

“Sweet Caroline” has remained a popular song long after its original release.

The song reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1969 and later became one of Neil Diamond’s most recognizable hits. It has also developed a strong connection to the sports world over the years.

In the United States, “Sweet Caroline” has been played at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, since at least 1997. It became a regular part of Red Sox games and has been played during the middle of the eighth inning at every game since 2002.

Peking Duk, Kita Alexander, Public Figures, Grinspoon, Hot Dub Time Machine and Sneaky Sound System are among the announced acts. The Jonas Brothers will headline the halftime show during the 49ers-Rams game.

Related: NFL Makes Halftime Show Announcement for Brazil Game

A 1969 song by The Beatles never reached No. 1 or even charted as a single when it was first released, but it has now been recognized among the greatest classic rock songs that never topped the charts.

In a July 15, 2026 ranking, Collider placed “Here Comes the Sun” at No. 2 on its list of “The 10 Greatest Classic Rock Songs That Were Never No. 1 Hits, Ranked.” The song was written and sung by George Harrison and appeared on The Beatles’ 1969 album Abbey Road.

The reason behind its unusual chart history is simple. During its original release period, “Here Comes the Sun” was intended as an album track rather than a single. Because The Beatles did not release “Here Comes the Sun” as a single in 1969, it did not have the opportunity to compete for a position on the singles chart at the time, per Collider.

The Beatles play in the Star-Club in Hamburg, in 1962.

Photo by: Photo 12/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

However, that did not stop it from becoming one of the best-known songs in The Beatles’ catalog.

Collider’s ranking puts the Harrison composition ahead of many other famous rock songs that also missed the top spot. 

“Here Comes the Sun” came during a difficult period for Harrison and The Beatles.

By 1969, Harrison had been writing songs for the band for several years, but he often had to compete for space on their albums with the prolific songwriting partnership of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. 

According to uDiscover Music, Harrison explained his motivation for writing songs in 1969, saying, “I wasn’t Lennon, or I wasn’t McCartney. I was me. And the only reason I started to write songs was because I thought, ‘Well, if they can write them, I can write them.’”

At the beginning of 1969, Harrison had a growing collection of songs. He also became frustrated during the group’s Get Back sessions and briefly left the band on Jan. 10 before returning later that month.

The inspiration for “Here Comes the Sun” arrived in April 1969, when Harrison decided to skip a meeting connected to The Beatles’ Apple business.

Instead, he went to the country home of his friend Eric Clapton in Ewhurst, Surrey.

Harrison recalled the experience in his autobiography, I Me Mine: “Here Comes The Sun” was written at the time when Apple was getting like school, where we had to go and be businessmen: ‘sign this’ and ‘sign that.’”

The Beatles began recording “Here Comes the Sun” at EMI Studios on July 7, 1969. Harrison played acoustic guitar, Paul McCartney played bass, and Ringo Starr handled drums. John Lennon was absent from the recording after being hospitalized following a car accident in Scotland.

The finished track grew beyond its acoustic guitar foundation. Over the following weeks, the recording gained more guitar parts, drum fills, handclaps, vocals, a harmonium, strings and sounds from an early Moog synthesizer that Harrison had acquired.

The song also showed Harrison’s interest in Indian music through its changing time signatures.

Ringo Starr recalled Harrison presenting the song with an unusual rhythmic idea: “He said, ‘Oh, I’ve got this song. It’s like seven-and-a-half time.’” Starr said he had to find a way to perform the changing rhythm consistently.

The result became one of the key songs on Abbey Road. Harrison’s other contribution to the album, “Something,” also helped show how far his songwriting had developed.

“Here Comes the Sun” was later used to promote the 50th anniversary reissue of Abbey Road in 2019. It also reached No. 3 on Billboard’s Hot Rock Songs chart and has been certified triple platinum for U.K. sales since 2010. As of 2026, it is the most-streamed Beatles song globally on Spotify.

More than 50 years after it first appeared on Abbey Road, the 1969 classic continues to show that a song’s chart position and its lasting place in music history are not always the same thing.

Related: 1984 Hit Song, With 20-Year-Old Singer From Kentucky, Ranked Among ‘Best Country Songs’ of All Time

If you’ve ever spent the final morning of your Disney vacation dreading the chaos of airport check-in lines with bulky suitcases in tow, leaving the theme parks just got a whole lot smoother.

Walt Disney World is officially expanding its complimentary Airport Luggage Transfer service, and for the very first time, a Moderate Resort is getting in on the action.

Beginning August 18, 2026, guests checking out of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort can drop off their checked luggage directly at the property before departing for Orlando International Airport (MCO). Disney’s team handles the legwork of transporting the bags straight to MCO and handing them over to participating airlines for the flight home—freeing travelers to enjoy one final morning at the parks or a relaxed brunch without dragging luggage along for the ride.

As reported by WDW Info’s Chloé Ferreira, who broke the news of the rollout, the service currently supports passengers flying out on American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or United Airlines.

Related: Disney World Just Brought Back a Massive, Deeply Missed Vacation Perk

View this post on Instagram How the Service Works

The luggage transfer program brings back a much-loved convenience that harkens back to the days of Disney’s former Magical Express (which ended in 2022). While the current setup does not include motorcoach transportation for passengers—travelers still need to book their own ride via rideshare, taxi, or airport shuttle—it completely eliminates the hassle of navigating curbside drops or ticket counter bag drop queues once you reach the airport terminal.

Disney initially piloted the service at Pop Century in 2025 before rolling it out across its Value properties, including:

• Disney’s Pop Century Resort
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

Related: Gen-Xers Will Love This Nostalgic Detail About Disney’s New Muppet Coaster

Why Caribbean Beach Is a Strategic Upgrade

Bringing the service to Caribbean Beach marks a major milestone in Disney’s rollout strategy. As Ferreira pointed out, the sprawling island-themed resort is an especially notable addition given how massive the grounds are and its prime location as the central hub for the Disney Skyliner, which connects vacationers directly to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

For guests taking an evening flight home, the perk is a game-changer: you can check your luggage at Caribbean Beach first thing in the morning, hop on the Skyliner for a full afternoon of park hopping, and head straight through airport security at MCO without ever touching your heavy bags again until you land at your home airport carousel.

With a Moderate Resort now officially in the rotation, all eyes are on whether Disney will continue expanding the perk to Deluxe properties and bringing additional domestic airline carriers onboard in the months ahead.

Related: Disney’s Newest Lake Houses Are a Love Letter to Classic Disney Artistry

Clay Walker was 26 years old, riding a run of No. 1 hits, and had a baby daughter at home when a doctor delivered the worst news of his life: he had multiple sclerosis, and according to that diagnosis, he’d be in a wheelchair within four years and dead within eight.

“I was told that I wouldn’t be around very long,” Walker recalled of that 1996 diagnosis. At the time, MS research was still limited, and the neurosurgeon who broke the news wasn’t even an MS specialist. Walker said the words landed like a death sentence.

Rather than accepting the forecast, Walker found a new doctor and began a treatment that halted the disease’s progression and sent it into remission. He kept touring, kept charting, and kept building. His debut single, “What’s It to You,” had already hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart in 1993, and he went on to notch five more chart-toppers, four platinum albums, and more than 30 charted singles, all while managing MS behind the scenes. Between music, touring, and business ventures, his fortune is now estimated in the tens of millions, according to celebrity finance trackers.

In 2003, Walker turned his diagnosis into a public mission, founding Band Against MS to raise money and awareness for the disease. He’s stayed active with the cause for more than two decades.

The battle hasn’t stayed entirely in the past. Walker revealed in 2025 that he was going through a “rough patch,” including new balance and mobility issues that led to spinal surgery earlier that year. He’s continued physical therapy since, calling his slow but steady progress on a treadmill a genuine win.

Now, three decades after that grim prediction, Walker is marking a birthday few doctors expected him to see. He turns 57 today, still touring, still fighting, and still proving the original prognosis wrong one year at a time.

In 1965, being offered a new song by Paul McCartney would have seemed like a golden ticket. But one British Invasion star was reportedly offered what would become one of The Beatles’ most famous songs and decided it wasn’t for him.

Billy J. Kramer, who became one of the biggest stars to emerge from Liverpool’s Merseybeat scene outside of The Beatles, turns 83 on Aug. 19.

Born William Howard Ashton in Bootle, England, in 1943, Kramer initially had his sights set on a much different career. He took an engineering apprenticeship with British Railways and played guitar in his spare time before eventually becoming a vocalist.

Music won out, and after coming to the attention of Beatles manager Brian Epstein, Kramer was paired with the Dakotas and signed to Parlophone under producer George Martin.

But his connection to The Beatles went much deeper than sharing a manager, producer and record label.

Billy J. Kramer Turned Down Paul McCartney’s ‘Yesterday’

Kramer became one of the chief beneficiaries of McCartney and John Lennon’s rapidly developing songwriting talents in the early 1960s.

His first major hit was “Do You Want to Know a Secret,” which had already appeared on The Beatles’ debut album Please Please Me. Kramer followed it with “Bad to Me,” a Lennon-McCartney composition that The Beatles never commercially recorded themselves.

“Bad to Me” went all the way to No. 1 in the U.K., while other Lennon-McCartney songs recorded by Kramer included “I’ll Keep You Satisfied” and “From a Window.”

But Kramer eventually went looking elsewhere for material. His gamble paid off spectacularly with “Little Children,” which became another No. 1 hit in the U.K. and reached the Top 10 in the United States.

Later, Kramer reportedly approached McCartney about giving him another song. McCartney’s offer was a little number called “Yesterday.”

Kramer passed.

According to an account by longtime Merseybeat journalist Bill Harry, Kramer simply didn’t think “Yesterday” was suitable for him.

The Beatles went on to release “Yesterday” on Help! in 1965, with McCartney performing the song essentially solo, accompanied by a string quartet. It became one of the group’s most enduring recordings.

For Kramer, turning it down became one more remarkable chapter in a career that was intertwined with The Beatles almost from the beginning.

John Lennon Even Gave Billy J. Kramer His Name

Kramer also has Lennon to thank for one of the most recognizable parts of his stage name.

After Epstein agreed to manage the young singer, Kramer recalled being called into Epstein’s office for a meeting where Lennon was waiting.

Lennon suggested adding the middle initial “J” to Billy Kramer to give his name more distinction. When Kramer wondered what he should tell reporters the letter stood for, Lennon suggested “Julian.”

Kramer kept the “J,” although not Lennon’s proposed explanation.

More than six decades after his breakthrough, Kramer has continued recording and performing. He released the album I Won the Fight in 2013 and published his autobiography “Do You Want to Know a Secret” in 2016. More recently, he released the singles “Are You With Me” in 2024 and “Go On Girl” in 2025.

And while Kramer may forever be the singer who once said no to “Yesterday,” he didn’t exactly need The Beatles’ future standard to leave his mark. By then, Lennon and McCartney had already helped give him a collection of hits all his own.

Related: Paul McCartney’s No. 1 Duet Partner Swooped In to Outbid Him For The Beatles’ Catalog For $47.5 Million 41 Years Ago Today

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For decades, people have sworn by one very particular pair of resort sandals to complete their warm weather looks. The catch? Those shoes retail for $900, making them a bit out of reach for the average consumer. If you’re wild about the iconic style but don’t want to spend a small fortune, you can just as easily achieve the chic look for a fraction of the price with a pair of Madden Girl Hailey Slides.

These cute shoes are a dream for spring and summer wear, adding a classy finishing touch to virtually any outfit. Wear them with jeans, skirts, shorts, or dresses — the choice is yours, and Walmart has them in an assortment of pretty colors right now. Snag the black, merlot patent, gold, dark brown fabric, taupe suede, and tortoise versions in assorted sizes for as little as $24, down from their usual $39.

Madden Girl Hailey Slides, from $24 (was $39) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The similarities between this and the premium brand’s shoe are striking. It features a signature “H” cutout and the same sleek, flat sole that makes the sandals so wearable. The square toe is equally on trend, giving the slip-on style a classy appearance that sets them apart from ordinary slides and flip-flops.

While the geometric vamp channels a designer vibe, it serves a dual purpose, too. Because it’s so wide, it holds down your foot comfortably while you’re on the move. The effect is a clean, minimalist look that is “just gorgeous” and “very mistakable for expensive similar styles,” according to a reviewer who gave the pair five stars.

Another person dubbed them “chic and comfy,” adding that they’re a “great” alternative to luxury styles and feel “like walking on a cloud” thanks to the padded foot bed. Dozens of other shoppers agreed that the shoes bring instant understated elegance to any look. It’s a small investment for a wardrobe staple you can wear on vacations, brunches, and even errand runs.

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Don’t miss the chance to pick up a pair of Madden Girl Hailey Slides in the color of your choice for just $24 at Walmart. They’re moving fast at this price, but there are still options available in assorted colors and whole and half sizes ranging from 5 to 11. 

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On the latest episode of The Challenge, titled “Say It To My Face,” the Blue Team gets a massive advantage in the team challenge… and is still a complete embarrassment.

In other news, which person who should be on their best behavior is going to fall first? And Nurys Mateo goes scorched earth on some of her castmates.

Related: Who Wins ‘The Challenge: Cutthroat’? Season 42 Spoilers, Eliminations, Disqualifications and Finalists

SPOILER ALERT: There are spoilers ahead for the fourth episode of The Challenge: Cutthroat, so don’t keep reading if you don’t want to be spoiled.

Who Went Home on ‘The Challenge’ Season 42 Last Night? Nurys Mateo

Jonne Roriz/Paramount+

Nurys Mateo, 31 (veteran)

Related: How Old Are Johnny Bananas, CT Tamburello, Cara Maria and Brad Fiorenza From ‘The Challenge’?

Advancing Contestants on ‘The Challenge: Cutthroat’ Adrienne Naylor, 29 (veteran)
Alexis “Lete,” 29 (rookie)
Anna Leigh Wilson, 30 (rookie)
Cara Maria Sorbello, 40 (veteran)
Cassidy Clark, 30 (veteran)
Chris “CT” Tamburello, 45 (veteran)
Chris Underwood, 33 (veteran)
Cory Wharton, 34 (veteran)
Deb Chubb, 29 (rookie)
Isabella “Izzy” Fairthorne, 26 (veteran)
Johnny “Bananas” Devenanzio, 44 (veteran)
Josh Goldstein, 29 (rookie)
Justin Hinsley, 26 (veteran)
Keanu Soto, 33 (rookie)
Leonardo “Leo” Dionicio, 24 (veteran)
Michele Fitzgerald, 35 (veteran)
Nelson Thomas, 37 (veteran)
Sydney Segal, 30 (veteran)
Victoria “Tori” Deal, 32 (veteran)
Will Gagnon, 29 (veteran)

Related: Where Was ‘The Challenge’ Season 42 Filmed? Here’s Every Location Featured in ‘Cutthroat’

What Were the Challenges on the ‘Cutthroat’ Premiere Episode & Episode 2?

The team challenge was called “Infiltration Dive” and it tasked the teams with swimming to a dock, then one at a time swimming a decent distance complete underwater, with only submerged air cones to surface in. Along the way, they would have puzzle pieces to grab. Blue Team had a huge advantage because they only had to get five people through the swim; both other teams had eight people. And Blue Team still lost.

It was entirely the fault of (captains, ahem) Cara Maria and Nelson. Nelson had decent excuse — he was absolutely not prepared to swim with his prosthetic leg on, so he eventually took it off. However, after that, he should’ve been able to do it and he got into the first air bubble and kind of panicked.

Related: ‘The Challenge’ Season 42: Cast, Premiere Date, Trailer and More

Cara Maria had no excuse. She’s not a good swimmer, but good lord. As she yelled later at Josh, she’s been doing The Challenge since she was 23 years old. She is now 40. Basically her entire adult life. Why in the name of all that is holy haven’t you become a better swimmer?! It’s seriously insane. Get your ass down to the YMCA and learn how to frickin’ swim!

Her teammates had every right to be pissed. Lete, Josh and Anna Leigh absolutely crushed it and then Cara Maria and Nelson really dropped the ball. Josh later confronted her about even wanting to be there and she tearfully said she does. And I think she truly does want to be there. She’s in arguably the best shape of her entire life.

HOWEVER — how many seasons of this show have you done and you still haven’t bothered to learn how to swim? C’mon.

Related: How to Watch ‘The Challenge: Cutthroat’ Season 42: Streaming, Premiere Date and Time

Personally, I think Cara Maria should have sucked it up and volunteered for the elimination. Because that’s what a captain whose fault it was they lost should do. But she didn’t and of course, the Orange Team full of vets didn’t choose her. They also didn’t chose Lete because she’s making out with Bananas. So Anna Leigh had to go into ANOTHER elimination before either girl on her team had done one. That’s garbage.

Nurys got voted into the choice for Orange Team by her team and Adrienne was the other one, so obviously Captain Izzy didn’t pick her BFF Adrienne to go into the sand. Nurys was super mad about it and lashed out hard. I don’t think what she said to Sydney is fair. Sydney is pretty real. Nurys just doesn’t like that Sydney is frank with some meanness rising.

Either way, Anna Leigh aboslutely smoked Nurys in “I’ve Got You Pegged,” a puzzle and strength challenge. Just about everyone on the sidelines was rooting for Anna Leigh because everyone’s pretty much over Nurys and her drama.

Afterward, they were informed that at the next challenge, they would tell him who the sole (permanent) new captain is. Dun dun dun!

In other news, Anna Leigh needs to stop trying to blow up her marriage on national TV by sitting with Leo and saying some super borderline things top him. Girl, he will jump your bones at the slightest nod, so if you don’t want to cheat on your husband for all the world to see, you better tighten up.

And Izzy and Cory are also both half a step away from making a big mistake. Izzy, girl, RUN. You in danger, girl. STOP.

The Challenge: Cutthroat season 42 premieres Wednesday, August 5 at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT on Paramount+ with two back-to-back episodes. Subsequent new episodes drop every Wednesday at the same time.

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A good cardigan is one of those pieces you’ll keep around because you can wear it almost all year. It’s light enough for cool summer evenings but works just as well layered over heavier pieces once fall arrives. Whether you throw it over a tank top, wear it buttoned on its own, or layer it over a dress, it’s an easy way to add coverage without making an outfit feel bulky.

One elevated option at a surprisingly affordable price is the Arach&Cloz 100% Cotton Lace Cardigan. Right now, it’s on sale for 57% off at Amazon, bringing the price down from $30 to just $13. Considering many cardigans at this price point are made from synthetic materials, the combination of an all-cotton construction and a stylish design makes this a particularly good value.

Arach&Cloz 100% Cotton Lace Cardigan, $13 (was $30) at Amazon 

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The cardigan comes in three neutral shades — black, brown, and beige — so each one is easy to work into an existing wardrobe. It’s available in sizes small through extra large, giving you the option to choose the fit that works best for your preferred styling.

The biggest standout is the 100% premium cotton material. The fabric is soft, lightweight, breathable, and designed to help wick moisture, making it comfortable when you need a little extra coverage without overheating. It’s also machine washable, although the brand recommends placing it in a laundry bag to protect the delicate lace detailing.

The design gives this otherwise classic layer a little more personality. A V-neckline with lace trim adds a feminine touch, while metallic buttons bring a subtle hint of shine. The front-slit hem creates a more modern finish, and the closer-fitting silhouette is flattering and can be paired with just about everything.

Related: Shoppers Are Calling Amazon’s Oversized Vegan Leather Jacket a Fall ‘Staple,’ and It’s Over 30% Off

There are plenty of ways to style it depending on the occasion. Wear it open over a simple tank top with straight-leg jeans, ballet flats, and a tote for an easy casual look. Button it up and pair it with trousers and loafers for a more refined outfit, or layer it over a dress or maxi skirt for something softer and more romantic. It’s also an easy choice for commutes, dates, weekend plans, and casual outings.

One shopper said the cardigan offers “breathable coverage for warm days,” calling it a “must-have for layering.” They added, “Its breathable material is soft, with a lovely stretch to it..” Another described it as “beautiful” and “comfortable,” writing, “This cardigan is such a versatile piece that can be styled in so many different ways. It easily transitions from casual daytime wear to something a bit more dressed up.”

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For a lightweight layer you’ll be able to reach for from summer through fall and beyond, the Arach&Cloz 100% Cotton Lace Cardigan is tough to beat. And with Amazon’s current 57% discount, you can save more than $15 and even pick up multiple shades for just $13 each.

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.

ZZ Top has announced that it will continue The Big One! Tour following the death of longtime drummer Frank Beard, though the band has canceled two shows scheduled for Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs.

The rock band shared the update on X, writing: “Following Frank’s passing, ZZ Top has canceled its upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs. The band will resume The Big One! Tour this weekend with two dates at Austin City Limits, one of Frank’s favorite venues in a city he considered a second home.”

Beard died at age 77 on Monday. According to the band’s statement, he was in hospice care at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, with family members by his side. No cause of death was given.

Elwood Francis, Frank Beard and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top perform at Stiefel Theatre on August 6, 2025 in Salina, Kansas.

Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images

The canceled concerts had been scheduled in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. ZZ Top is now set to return to the stage for two shows at ACL Live at the Moody Theater in Austin on Saturday and Sunday.

Following Frank’s passing, ZZ Top has canceled its upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs.

The band will resume The Big One! Tour this weekend with two dates at Austin City Limits, one of Frank’s favorite venues in a city he considered a second home.

— ZZ Top (@ZZTop) August 18, 2026

The band is expected to continue its current tour with Billy Gibbons on guitar and vocals, Elwood Francis on bass and Michael Monahan on drums.

The Austin concerts hold special meaning following Beard’s death. ZZ Top said the city had been something of a second home for the drummer, while Austin City Limits was one of his favorite venues.

The band plans to continue touring after those two dates. Its next scheduled show is set for Aug. 29 in Terre Haute, Indiana, followed by concerts in Kettering, Ohio; East Meadow, New York; Gilford, New Hampshire and other cities across the United States.

The current run will also take ZZ Top to Mexico, Chile, Brazil and Argentina. The tour is scheduled to end on Nov. 24 in Buenos Aires.

In a statement following Beard’s death, per Ultimate Classic Rock, Gibbons paid tribute to his longtime bandmate.

“Today, Elwood and I lost a great friend and collaborator, and the world lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers and a great and true son of Texas,” Gibbons said.

He continued: “His signature backbeat was key to keeping ZZ on top. The band of which he was part for six decades is going to keep on keeping on as he had wished.”

Beard had been part of ZZ Top for more than 50 years and was one-third of the band’s famous classic lineup with Gibbons and bassist Dusty Hill.

Frank Beard’s death marks another major loss for ZZ Top. Hill, the band’s longtime bassist and vocalist, died in July 2021. Following Hill’s death, ZZ Top continued performing with Elwood Francis, the band’s longtime guitar tech, taking over bass duties in line with Hill’s wishes.

Gibbons is now the only surviving member of ZZ Top’s classic lineup.

The group’s last concert featuring Gibbons, Hill and Beard took place on July 18, 2021, at Iroquois Amphitheater in Louisville, Kentucky. The band performed songs including “I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” “La Grange,” “Legs” and “Tush.”

Beard had also been mostly absent from ZZ Top’s recent touring schedule. He stopped touring in March 2025 after the band announced that he was dealing with unspecified health issues. John Douglas initially filled in, while Michael Monahan later became the group’s substitute drummer and has continued performing with the band.

ZZ Top was formed in Houston, Texas, in 1969. Beard, Gibbons, and Hill formed the lineup that would remain together for five decades, making it one of rock music’s longest-running groups with the same core members.

The band released 15 studio albums and became known for songs including “La Grange,” “Tush,” “Cheap Sunglasses,” “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs” and “Sleeping Bag.”

Its 1983 album Eliminator became one of the group’s biggest releases. The record included “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Legs” and later received diamond certification after selling more than 10 million copies.

ZZ Top was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. The group continued to perform across North America, Europe and South America and has sold an estimated 50 million records.

Beard was also known as “The Man With No Beard,” a nickname that came from the fact that, despite his last name, he was the only member of the band’s famous classic lineup who did not wear the long facial hair associated with ZZ Top.

Now, after losing both Hill and Beard, the band is preparing to carry on with the next chapter of The Big One! Tour.

Related: ’90s Rock Band Remembers 21-Year-Old Album Recorded in L.A.

Lee Ann Womack is celebrating a milestone birthday.

The country music star turns 60 on Aug. 19, giving fans another reason to revisit the song that became her signature hit and introduced her music to an audience far beyond country radio.

Womack was born Aug. 19, 1966, in Jacksonville, Texas. She began her professional music career in Nashville and released her self-titled debut album in 1997. Her breakthrough came a few years later with her 2000 album I Hope You Dance.

The album’s title track, “I Hope You Dance,” became Womack’s biggest hit. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and crossed over to the Billboard Hot 100, where it reached the Top 15.

Written by Mark D. Sanders and Tia Sillers, “I Hope You Dance” became closely associated with Womack and helped establish her as one of the leading country artists of the early 2000s.

The song’s crossover success also helped Womack earn major recognition outside the country genre. “I Hope You Dance” was nominated for multiple awards and became a popular choice for milestone moments, from graduations to weddings.

Womack continued releasing music throughout the following decades, earning additional country hits and maintaining a career that has spanned more than 25 years.

Her other notable songs include “A Little Past Little Rock,” “The Fool,” “I’ll Think of a Reason Later” and “I Hope You Dance,” the latter of which remains the song most closely associated with her career.

Now, as Womack turns 60, the country singer has another milestone to celebrate: more than two decades after its release, “I Hope You Dance” remains one of the most recognizable crossover hits of the country music era.

RELATED: Garth Brooks Producer Allen Reynolds, Who Shaped His Biggest Hits, Turns 88

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When you’re looking for jewelry that blends bold glamour with classic sophistication, a pair of sparkly hoops is always a go-to. For something a bit more elevated, inside-out hoop earrings take things up a notch. These designs feature stones on both the outer front and the inner back, so they shine from every angle instead of just one side.

While styles like this can easily cost hundreds, the Gem Treasures Sterling Silver and White Topaz Graduated Inside-Out Hoop Earrings are a more budget-friendly find that still look incredibly luxe. Thanks to ShopHQ’s current 40% discount, the price drops from $167 to just $100. Stock is moving fast, so interested shoppers should add them to their cart before they sell out.

Gem Treasures Sterling Silver and White Topaz Graduated Inside-Out Hoop Earrings, $100 (were $167) at ShopHQ 

Courtesy of ShopHQ

These earrings are crafted from sterling silver with a rhodium-plated, high-polish finish for extra shine and durability. They have a total gram weight of 6.3 grams and feature untreated white topaz stones totaling 4.1 carats. The stones are set in graduated sizes, including 5, 4, 3, and 2 millimeters, which adds dimension and sparkle.

In terms of size, they measure about 1.1 inches in length and 0.2 inches in both width and height. They’re designed with a push-button release closure, making them secure while still easy to put on and take off. 

Despite the hoops’ eye-catching design, the moderate size means they’re still comfortable enough for extended wear. The balanced weight and secure closure make them feel stable without being too heavy, so you can wear them throughout the day without constantly adjusting them. That combination of statement-worthy style and everyday comfort makes them even more versatile.

Styling them is simple thanks to their classic look. You can wear them with a crisp white button-down or a neutral turtleneck for an elevated casual outfit. They also work well in office settings with a blazer, or paired with a dress for a dinner or special event. They even make a thoughtful gift that feels luxe, unique, and timeless.

One reviewer called them “beautiful” and “expensive”-looking, adding: “They are going to be a 60th birthday gift for a friend, and I know she will love them.”

Related: We Found Satiny Gold Button Stud Earrings That Add Quiet Luxury to Any Look for Nearly 40% Off

If you want a subtle twist on a classic hoop, the Gem Treasures Sterling Silver and White Topaz Graduated Inside-Out Hoop Earrings deliver old-money levels of luxury at a great price. With the current 40% discount, you can save nearly $70 on this polished, high-end style.

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At a time when women had few legal rights and even fewer choices about the lives they could lead, Coco Chanel was making a name for herself. Women in France could not vote, married women faced significant restrictions on their financial and legal independence, and many professions and institutions remained largely closed to them. Against that backdrop, Chanel wasn’t just designing clothes. She was creating a new vision of what a woman could be.

Coco Chanel completely transformed fashion. Born on August 19, 1883, in Saumur, France, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel rose from an impoverished childhood to become one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century. After her mother died when Chanel was a child, her father placed her and her sisters in an orphanage, where she learned to sew. From those difficult beginnings, she would go on to build a fashion empire. And she transformed the way women dressed.

Chanel was a true pioneer. At a time when women’s clothing was often restrictive, she introduced designs that gave women greater freedom to move. She borrowed from menswear, embraced comfortable fabrics and showed women that elegance didn’t have to mean discomfort. Her little black dress, Chanel suit and other groundbreaking designs helped redefine modern femininity.

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And Chanel didn’t just create clothes. She created a new kind of woman: independent, confident and unapologetically herself. Her life was itself an extraordinary act of reinvention, rising from poverty to become a global fashion icon.

Chanel was also very gifted at reinventing herself. As biographer Axel Madsen wrote, she “made things up,” transforming her own story as she moved from a poor childhood to the upper echelons of society and from seamstress to celebrated couturier. Her life became almost as legendary as her clothes. As she famously said, “My life didn’t please me, so I created my life.”

In honor of Chanel’s birthday on August 19, her words offer the perfect reminder that sometimes the thing that makes us stand out is precisely the thing that makes us different.

Quote of the Day by Coco Chanel

“In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.”

—Coco Chanel

The quote comes from Coco Chanel: Her Life, Her Secrets, the 1971 book by French journalist Marcel Haedrich. In it, Chanel reflects on the importance of individuality and standing apart from the crowd.

The meaning is simple but powerful. If you want to be truly irreplaceable, you can’t simply follow everyone else. You have to embrace what makes you different. That philosophy was at the heart of Chanel’s own life and career. She didn’t follow the rules of fashion—she changed them.

Chanel put that philosophy into practice throughout her career. She introduced designs inspired by menswear and made comfort part of elegance. Her little black dress, Chanel suit and other groundbreaking designs challenged women’s ideas about what they could wear and how they could present themselves to the world.

Related: Quote of the Day: Martina McBride on Why Being Your Best Doesn’t Mean Being Perfect

Deeper Meaning of Coco Chanel’s Quote

At first, Chanel’s words sound like advice about fashion. She made her name by creating designs that looked different from what other women were wearing. But the deeper meaning is about individuality.

Being “different” doesn’t necessarily mean trying desperately to stand out. Chanel’s philosophy was more radical. It meant developing a point of view of your own. Instead of asking what everyone else is doing and then trying to imitate it, she encouraged people to discover what makes them distinctive. She inspired people to have the confidence to embrace it.

Chanel’s own life was an act of reinvention. She didn’t begin with wealth, connections or an established place in the fashion world. She created a new identity for herself and then built a career that was equally original. Her clothes reflected that same philosophy. She didn’t simply decorate existing fashions. She changed the idea of what women’s clothing could be.

That’s why the word “irreplaceable” is so important in the quote. Chanel isn’t saying that everyone needs to be famous or extraordinary. She’s suggesting that what makes someone memorable is an authentic quality that cannot simply be copied. The little black dress could be imitated. A Chanel-inspired suit could be reproduced. But the vision behind those creations belonged to Chanel.

And that idea extends far beyond fashion. Whether you’re an artist, writer, entrepreneur, performer or simply someone trying to figure out who you are, there can be enormous pressure to fit in. Chanel’s advice offers another possibility. Instead of worrying about being like everyone else, figure out what is uniquely yours.

Related: Quote of the Day: Audra McDonald on Why the Scariest Choices Often Lead to the Greatest Growth

More Quotes By Coco Chanel

“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.”

“Adornment, what a science! Beauty, what a weapon! Modesty, what elegance!”

“Fashion is architecture. It is a matter of proportions.”

“Nothing is ugly as long as it is alive.”

“Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury.”

“Adornment, what a science! Beauty, what a weapon! Modesty, what elegance!”

Next, 225 life quotes.

For today’s New York Times Connections Sports Edition puzzle, think of words of Tennessee professional teams, familiar SEC nicknames, first names of Dallas Wings players and famous terms associated with Italian soccer, among other things.

Get excited—there’s another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you’re looking for some hints and answers for today’s Connections Sports Edition on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, you’ve come to the right place.

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Today’s NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Tuesday, August 18, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it’s a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It’s up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you “group sports terms that share a common thread.”

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

Hints for Today’s Connections Sports Edition Categories on August 19, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Volunteer State.
• Green: Major college sports conference.
• Blue: They play in Texas.
• Purple: European football.

Here Are Today’s Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we’ll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: TENNESSEE PRO TEAMS
• Green: SEC TEAMS, FAMILIARLY
• Blue: FIRST NAMES OF DALLAS WINGS PLAYERS
• Purple: ASSOCIATED WITH ITALIAN SOCCER

If you’re looking for the answers, no worries—we’ve got them below. So, don’t scroll any further if you don’t want to see the solutions!

The answers to today’s Connections Sports Edition #664 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• TENNESSEE PRO TEAMS: GRIZZLIES, NASHVILLE SC, PREDATORS, TITANS
• SEC TEAMS, FAMILIARLY: A&M, BAMA, MIZZON, VANDY
• FIRST NAMES OF DALLAS WINGS PLAYERS: ARIKE, AZZI, ODYSSEY, PAIGE
• ASSOCIATED WITH ITALIAN SOCCER: AZZURRI, ROSSONERI, SAN SIRO, SCUDETTO

Don’t worry if you didn’t get them this time—we’ve all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Tuesday, August 18, 2026