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If you want sandals that look good and actually feel good to walk in all day, the Clarks’ Laurieann Lily Sandals are worth a look. Whether you're sightseeing on vacation, spending hours on your feet, or simply planning to do a lot of walking this summer, these coastal-inspired sandals are designed to help keep discomfort at bay. 

Right now, they’re on sale at Amazon for as low as $28, a 71% discount from their usual $95 price. Designed with Clarks' Ultimate Comfort footbed, they offer cushioned support for all-day wear. They are slingbacks with an adjustable Velcro ankle strap, so they’re easy to put on and take off. It's a combination shoppers clearly love, with one reviewer calling them the "most comfortable sandals I have ever worn." 

Clarks’ Laurieann Lily Sandal, $28 (was $95) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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These sandals feature a braided leather upper that's soft and flexible, so they won't dig into your feet even after hours of wear. Their coastal look gives off casual, summery vibes that pair well with everything from breezy dresses to linen pants and your favorite denim.

Available in cream, black, and tan, the sandals make it easy to find a shade that complements your summer wardrobe.

The black option is currently the best deal for as low as $45, while the tan and cream shades start at $50 and $55, respectively. No matter which shade you choose, you're still getting a great deal. 

 Shoppers said the sandals are especially comfortable for long days on their feet. One reviewer purchased a pair for her mom — who needed supportive shoes for walking — and praised the fit and comfort. Sizing runs from five to twelve including wide widths, which many shoppers appreciated. "These sandals are incredibly comfortable," one reviewer wrote. "They're perfect for my wide feet, and I really appreciate how supported they feel with every step." While another said: "These sandals are very cute and very comfortable."

Related: Amazon’s Cushioned Walking Sandals Are a ‘10/10’ for Wide Feet, and They’re 33% Off

For as low as $28, the Clarks’ Women's Laurieann Lily Sandals are a solid deal for a genuine leather sandal. If comfortable summer sandals are on your shopping list, now's the perfect time to score a pair for less. 

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.

Three Days of the Condor was released in 1975 during one of the most uniquely distrustful moments in American history. The Robert Redford and Faye Dunaway starrer was released in the post-Watergate era and tapped into filmgoers’ unease about covert government activities happening behind closed doors. A new ranking names Three Days of the Condor the greatest conspiracy thriller ever made. Such a convincing film, even the KGB took notice at the time and used the film as inspiration for its own initiatives.

Three Days of the Condor Captured Post-Watergate Paranoia @cinemasavedmylife

Three Days of the Condor (1975) #SydneyPollack #RobertRedford #MaxVonSydow #FilmsYouShouldSee A bookish CIA researcher in Manhattan finds all his co-workers dead, and must outwit those responsible until he figures out who he can really trust.

♬ original sound - CinemaSavedMyLife

Three Days of the Condor was the rare mid-1970s conspiracy thriller that examined espionage activities happening on American soil. Directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Redford, Dunaway, Cliff Robertson and Max von Sydow, the film follows bookish CIA researcher Joe Turner, whose quiet job analyzing books and publications turns deadly when he returns from lunch to discover everyone in his office has been murdered.

A Different Kind of Spy Thriller

Turner quickly realizes he can’t assume the people who are supposed to protect him can be trusted. This was a marked departure for spy thrillers of the era, which typically focused on a threatening foreign enemy.

In Three Days of the Condor, the danger is coming from inside American intelligence rather than international secret agents and larger-than-life villains.

Why the Movie Felt So Relevant in 1975

The film expertly captured the mood in America in the mid-1970s. After Watergate, audiences were living through an era when stories about government deception no longer seemed entirely fictional. Three Days of the Condor turned anxiety into entertainment, presenting an America where the institutions one counts on for protection might actually pose the biggest threat.

Related: 1979 Debut Novel Shocked Readers, Sold Millions, and Became a Cross-Generational Cult Classic

Robert Redford Became an Icon of the Spy Thriller

Following the release of Three Days of the Condor, Robert Redford became synonymous with thrillers. Already a leading man known for his charm and cinematic good looks, starring in films like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting and The Way We Were, by the mid-1970s Redford took on more roles that played into, and questioned, American ideals about power, politics and institutions.

A year after Three Days of the Condor was released, Redford would star in All the President’s Men, playing Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward alongside Dustin Hoffman. The era was not only prolific for Redford, but one that closely associated him with movies that questioned the ethics of people in authority.

But it was Redford’s familiar movie-star charisma that made him one of the most trusted figures in this shining era of spy films.

The Movie Was So Convincing, the KGB Took Notice

Even more remarkable, the film was so convincing it inspired real KGB initiatives.

According to accounts from former Soviet intelligence officer Sergei Tretyakov and journalist Pete Earley’s book Comrade J, KGB officials believed the CIA had an operation similar to the one depicted in Three Days of the Condor. In response, the KGB was said to have established a real intelligence unit in Moscow dedicated to similar work.

Three Days of the Condor wasn’t based on a true story, but it inspired one.

Why Three Days of the Condor Still Matters @tedpie21

Three days of the Condor (1975)

♬ original sound - tedpie

Nearly 50 years after its release, the movie is one of the defining conspiracy thrillers of all time. More than a suspense film, Three Days of the Condor captured a specific moment in time and established a new kind of spy hero.

The Spy Hero Three Days of the Condor Created

Redford’s hero was intelligent rather than invincible, skeptical rather than trusting by default, and focused on finding out the truth, even if it meant exposing the wrongdoings of those in power.

That formula became the standard for spy thrillers and, for the most part, is still the norm. From Matt Damon’s Jason Bourne in The Bourne Identity films to the Mission: Impossible franchise, modern-day spy thrillers rely on a hero who doesn’t know whom to trust, an archetype established in the mid-1970s with Three Days of the Condor.

Related: 1969 Rock Classic, Written in Just 20 Minutes, Named the Greatest Protest Song of All Time

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Aubrey Plaza is a mom!

The popular actress has welcomed her first child with her partner, Christopher Abbott. She was spotted in New York City on Sunday, Aug. 9; photos obtained by TMZ show. She was wearing jeans and a black top, with her hair in a high ponytail.

Sources told the outlet that Plaza welcomed the baby during the last week of July.

Before she and Abbott got together, Plaza was married to Jeff Baena for roughly five years, but the director died at the age of 47 in January 2025 due to suicide. The couple had been separated for roughly four months before his passing.

As for how Plaza and Abbott met, the two worked on the 2020 movie "Black Bear" and the off-Broadway play "Danny and the Deep Blue Sea." She confirmed news of the pregnancy during an appearance on the “Smartless” podcast hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes and Will Arnett in April.

"Well, there’s a baby inside of me,” she revealed. "No, I said there is a baby inside of me right now.”

“Today was a big day. I went to the doctor’s today, and my dog also went to the doctor’s. And both of us — my dog’s getting a scan right now. I got a scan earlier. I’m not kidding,” she shared. “She had to get an ultrasound on her stomach. And then I got an ultrasound on my stomach, and there is a baby in there."

Plaza added that she's excited about becoming a first-time mom.

“I am. Yeah. I’ve always wanted, I’ve always wanted, I’ve always wanted to see what that’s all about, you know?," she explained. "“It just seems so interesting, that whole thing."

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Kylie Jennerjust spent the weekend celebrating the last birthday of her 20s. The KUWTK reality TV star/Kylie Cosmetics founder turns 29 on August 10, and she’s not waiting to mark her special day.

Jenner recently shared a cute carousel on Instagram, featuring her playful pink party. Along with plenty of pics, Kylie wrote, “Happy Bday eve to meeee. I had my dream princess kitty bday night. My heart is so full. I love my life and my friends.” And yes, based on the photos, she should definitely love her life.

So what does a princess kitty bday party for Kylie Jenner look like? More specifically, what exactly is a princess kitty birthday party? Well, as the name says, it was all about a princess (that would be princess Kylie dressed in pink) and kitties. 

The series of snapshots shows off the makeup mogul’s skintight hot pink ensemble (complete with a feathered crown, boa, and kitten heels), her BFFs (also dressed in pink), a glam bedazzled jewel cake, bedazzled cups, and an absolutely adorable cat cake that reads, “Happy Birthday Kitty Kylie.” That’s right, the soon-to-be-29-year-old had two cakes at her pre-birthday bash.

But wait, that’s not all. Earlier in the day, she posted a photo of her three (yes, there were really three) cakes on her Instagram Stories. The third cake was a cheeky bikini-clad body with “Meow” written on the bottoms and “Happy Birthday Kylie” on the belly. 

The mom-of-two also included a video of herself cuddled next to her eight-year-old daughter Stormi Webster as friends and family sing “Happy Birthday.” 

Which celebrities were at Kylie Jenner’s birthday party?

Who was pictured in the photos? Of course, Jenner’s guest list included sistersKim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, and Kendall Jenner. Other guests include pals Hailey Bieber, Yris Palmer, and Victoria Villarroel.

View this post on Instagram

Fans and a few famous friends flooded Jenner’s Instagram post with comments wishing the birthday girl a happy day. BFF Stassie Karanikolaou wasn’t pictured in the photos, but did send a message, writing, “Perfect girl! I love you forever.” 

Where was Kylie’s sidekick? Based on her social media posts, it looks like Karanikolaou may have still been vacationing in Ibiza. 

Big sis Khloe also commented, calling Kylie the “Prettiest Kitty Princess ever,” and makeup artist Ariel Tejada added, “We love u.” 

Even though it seems like Jenner thoroughly enjoyed her Bday bash (after all, she did refer to it as her “dream” princess kitty party), the entrepreneur called her 28th the “best birthday ever” on Instagram last year. And while she’s almost 30 now, she did say, “27 (basically 30) filled with love and so grateful” back in 2024. 

Will Kylie Jenner celebrate her birthday again on August 10?

Her pink party may not be the end of the celebration. Kylie still has her actual birthday to look forward to on August 10th.

Want to see how Kylie celebrated over the weekend? Check out her party pics on Instagram here!

Ben Jones, the actor best known for his role on The Dukes of Hazzard and later serving as a politician, has died at 84 years old.

The news was announced by his wife, Alma Viator, on Sunday, August 9. She claimed her husband suffered a "massive heart attack" while waiting to watch a baseball game.

Viator shared the announcement with a Facebook post. She posted a photo of her husband smiling next to a dog and captioned it, "I lost the love of my life today. Ben passed from a massive heart attack. He was home resting in his favorite chair waiting for the Braves to come on and whoop the Yankees. Ben had the most amazing rich full life. He loved and was loved by so many. He will be missed. I loved him so so much."

Jones was a stage actor who transitioned into the film and TV industry in the early 1970s. He was featured in projects like Smokey and the Bandit, Moonrunners, and Primary Colors.

Jones joined the 1979 action TV show The Dukes of Hazzard as CooterDavenport, the lovable mechanic friend. He stayed with the show for all seven seasons from 1979 to 1985 and was seen in 141 episodes.

Tom Wopat, who played Luke Duke on the series, honored his late costar. He shared a post on Instagram with the caption: "The Dukes of Hazzard lost another integral part of their cast today. Ben Jones was a fine friend and a fierce advocate of all the best things we can offer in the entertainment business. He will be sorely missed… DenverPyle frequently said to Ben, 'I’m not your Uncle Jesse!' But I feel like we lost a Duke cousin today. - Tom Wopat"

Jones left Hollywood for the U.S. House of Representatives. He served two terms from 1989 to 1993 while living in Georgia.

He is survived by his wife, Alma Viator, whom he married in 1992, and two children, Rachel and Walker.

George Russell, the 28-year-old British Formula 1 sensation, and longtime girlfriendCarmen Montero Mundt are engaged. The happy couple shared the news with a social media post documenting Russell’s beachside proposal to his girlfriend of six years and her stunning yellow oval-cut engagement ring. Judging by fan reaction and well wishes from other F1 WAGs—that’s wives and girlfriends of Formula 1 drivers—Montero Mundt is being welcomed with open arms into one of the most elite clubs in the world: F1 WAGs.

Russell shared the news on Instagram, posting a series of photos from his beachside proposal and celebration with the Spanish finance professional and entrepreneur. The happy couple glowed in their post-engagement photos, seemingly taken just after Montero Mundt said yes.

George Russell’s Fiancée Has a Stunning Yellow Diamond Ring View this post on Instagram

The only thing shining brighter than the couple’s beaming smiles was the future F1 wife’s engagement ring. The breathtaking three-stone ring featured a staggering oval-cut yellow diamond in the center.

Hers is a ring fit for a queen of Formula 1 and worthy of a relationship that lasted six years before Russell finally popped the question.

While many F1 WAGs were quick to share their congratulations for the newly engaged couple, social media commenters weren’t shy about giving Russell a bit of grief over the couple dating for six years before getting engaged.

“Yeez!!! It was about time, George!😭😂 Congratulations,” wrote one fan, echoing the sentiments of many. Another added, “finally.”

Another gushed, “My fav driver couple finally makes the next step ahhh😍💍✨ congrats to both of you!! the ring looks so special 💛”

Related: Steve Jobs’ Daughter, 27, Stuns in Just-Released Wedding Photo: ‘Absolutely Radiant’

George Russell’s Rise to Formula 1 Stardom

A rising star in F1, George Russell’s career took a major turning point when he was called on to replace Lewis Hamiltonat Mercedes for the Sakhir Grand Prix. A botched pit stop derailed his race, but the event put Russell on the map.

He delivered his first F1 victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix after joining Mercedes full-time in 2022 alongside Hamilton. He recorded two victories in 2025, helping Mercedes finish second in the Constructors’ Championship.

Now fully in championship contention, Russell sits third in the Drivers’ Championship with two wins, five podiums, and four pole positions this season.

George Russell and Carmen Montero Mundt’s Love Story

Russell and Carmen Montero Mundt met in 2020 through a mutual friend in London but have kept their relationship mostly out of the spotlight. Despite her own career in finance and as a budding entrepreneur, Montero Mundt has become one of the most recognizable faces on the F1 sidelines, supporting her superstar boyfriend, now fiancé.

Excitement over the couple’s engagement has gone viral on social media, highlighting the popularity of sports WAGs and the ever-growing notoriety of F1 drivers.

Thanks in part to Netflix’s behind-the-scenes F1 series Drive to Survive and more opportunities to watch races on streaming platforms, Formula 1 drivers and their partners have become some of the most followed personalities in the pop culture and sports world.

Why F1 WAG Culture Is So Popular @formulaonewagupdates

💍🤍🌞🥹💛 #foryoupage #formulaone #f1wags #carmenmundt #georgerussell

♬ Pink and White. - ❔

And with A-list F1 WAGs like Kim Kardashian, who’s been dating Lewis Hamilton for about six months, Kelly Piquet, wife of Max Verstappen, and Alexandra Saint Mleux, wife of Charles Leclerc, adding glamour to the sidelines of Formula 1 races, interest in George Russell and Carmen Montero Mundt’s upcoming wedding has only just begun.

Related: Hollywood Star's Custom Monique Lhuillier Wedding Dress Leaves Fans Divided

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There's nothing quite like the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren. Seeing your child become a parent is pretty surreal, and it offers you the opportunity to bond with a new generation of your family. Spending quality time with your grandchildren is highly rewarding, but finding activities that you can all enjoy can be challenging at times. That's why we asked three child psychologists what hobby is best for grandparents and grandkids.

We know what you're thinking: How can you possibly find a hobby that works well for children of all ages? That's why we asked the pros to share different ways to adapt the hobby for different age groups, ranging from toddlers to teenagers. We also asked them to describe the science behind why this one hobby benefits the brains of children and grandparents.

Since variety is critical to keeping kids entertained, the psychologists we spoke with also share a few additional hobbies that work well for both grandparents and grandchildren. Screen time is always a hot topic with parents and grandparents, so the experts also explain the psychological difference between screen-free bonding versus babysitting to help you better understand the benefits of both as you embark on grandparent-grandchild bonding activities.

Related: We Asked 3 Psychologists What Daily Habit Brings Families Closer Together—They All Said the Same Thing

The Unanimous Winner: Why Psychologists Say Cooking and Baking Is the Ultimate Shared Hobby

You don't have to be a professional chef to show off your skills in the kitchen. While talking with three psychologists, all of them agreed that cooking and baking are excellent intergenerational activities for families.

"They're easy to do no matter your age or skill level," Miami psychologist and relationship expert Dr. Mindy DeSeta tells Parade. "Kids typically find it exciting to mix ingredients together, pour things into bowls and decorate."

Board-certified clinical psychiatrist Dr. Tamir Aldad says cooking and baking are the best hobbies for grandparents and grandkids since they remove the pressure of direct interaction.

"Kids open up more easily when they're doing something with their hands, side-by-side, rather than sitting across from someone making eye contact. The kitchen becomes a low-stakes container for real conversation," Dr. Aldad, the CEO of mental health clinic Mindful Care, adds.

On a practical level, you also walk away with something tangible out of the activity.

"You end up with more than just a meal. You create memories that both generations are likely to remember for a long time," Dr. DeSeta says.

Related: 10 Things ‘Naturally Nurturing’ Grandparents Do Differently, According to Child Psychologists

The Developmental Magic: How This Hobby Benefits Both Brains

Dr. Michael Roeske, a psychologist at Newport Healthcare, says cooking and baking with your grandchildren offers you a shared learning experience.

"Grandchildren practice following steps, measuring and problem-solving, while grandparents get to pass down family recipes and traditions, all through hands-on conversation rather than passive screen time," he shares.

Per Dr. DeSeta, the act of cooking and breaking gives children's and adults' brains a great workout "because you're using memory, attention, planning and problem-solving all at the same time."

"Following a recipe makes your brain think through each step instead of running on autopilot," she explains. "For grandparents, this kind of mental activity helps keep the brain engaged, while kids build important learning and thinking skills."

Additionally, Dr. Aldad says cooking and baking support fine motor development and sensory regulation for children as they practice kneading, pouring and cracking eggs.

"And because the setting is naturally collaborative rather than evaluative, it activates the same reward and attachment circuitry as secure play, without the anxiety some kids feel when an adult is watching them directly," he notes.

On the other hand, grandparents satisfy their "psychological need in later life to feel useful and to pass something on" when they teach their grandkids a new skill.

"That's a real driver of well-being in older adults," Dr. Aldad shares. "There's also a cognitive benefit: multitasking a recipe while managing a child's attention and answering questions is a mild form of cognitive load that fits the pattern researchers associate with maintaining cognitive reserve."

Related: 11 Things the Most Emotionally Supportive Grandparents Do Differently, According to a Psychologist

How To Adapt the Hobby for Every Age (Toddler to Teens)

Your grandchild won't become the next Gordon Ramsay overnight, but there are ways to tailor cooking and baking sessions to their developmental level.

Toddlers (2-4)

"Keep recipes simple and let them help with easy jobs like stirring, pouring pre-measured ingredients or decorating cookies. The goal is to make it fun while helping them learn how to follow simple directions," Dr. DeSeta suggests.

School-Aged (5-11)

"Give them more responsibility by letting them measure ingredients, crack eggs or read the recipe out loud," she states.

Teens (12+)

"Let them take the lead by choosing a recipe and preparing most of the meal with a grandparent nearby for guidance," she shares.

Related: Grandparents Who Make the Biggest Impact on Their Grandkids Usually Do These 10 Things, Psychologists Say

Screen-Free Bonding vs. 'Babysitting': The Psychological Difference

Sometimes, you only have the energy to act like a babysitter and simply ensure that your grandchild doesn't get hurt while they're in your care (Newsflash: That's totally OK).

But there's a noticeable difference in how traditional "babysitting" impacts children as opposed to screen-free bonding. Here's a quick guide on how the two approaches differ.

Activity TypeExamplesThe Psychological Impact on the Child

Intentional shared hobbies

Playing board or card games, gardening, arts and crafts, building or puzzle projects

"Screen-free hobbies create conversations and shared experiences that help children build secure relationships, emotional regulation and communication skills," Dr. Roeske states.

Passive "babysitting"

Putting on a movie or TV show, handing over a tablet or phone, leaving them alone with a pile of toys for long periods

"Passive screen use can provide temporary entertainment, but generally lacks the mutual interaction that supports healthy social development," he says.

Related: We Asked 4 Child Psychologists What They Wish More Grandparents Would Stop Doing—They All Said the Same Thing

Honorable Mentions: 5 More Psychologist-Approved Indoor Hobbies

Depending on your age and mobility, you may be looking for a mix of low physical impact family activities and screen-free hobbies for kids. Luckily, the pros we chatted with were happy to offer up a variety of activities that work for every personality.

1. Reading

"Reading books together naturally creates opportunities for connection, conversation and learning across generations," Dr. Roeske explains. "No matter the type of story that is being shared, the experience encourages meaningful interaction without requiring extra materials or complicated planning. Also, reading together may allow grandparents to share family traditions and values while giving children a safe space to express themselves."

2. Doing puzzles

"Working on puzzles together encourages collaboration and critical thinking. It also creates opportunities for conversation in a calm, low-pressure environment that allows relationships to strengthen naturally over time," he says.

3. Building activities

"Building activities, like with LEGO or building blocks, can promote creativity, planning and flexible thinking, while also encouraging both generations to work toward a common goal. These projects also teach children that challenges can be solved through teamwork, communication and perseverance," Dr. Roeske states.

4. Board games

"Board games are great because losing gracefully in front of a patient adult is genuinely good practice for emotional regulation," Dr. Aldad notes.

5. Science experiments

"Get a little messy with simple science experiments. Activities like making a baking soda volcano or growing crystals spark curiosity and give grandparents and grandkids a chance to learn together," Dr. DeSeta says.

Up Next:

Related: 6 Benefits of Living With a Grandparent, According to a Child Psychologist

Sources:

• Dr. Tamir Aldad is a board-certified clinical psychiatrist and the CEO of mental health clinic Mindful Care.
• Dr. Michael Roeske is a psychologist at Newport Healthcare.
• Dr. Mindy DeSeta is a Miami psychologist and relationship expert.

Jennifer Lopez is a multi-hyphenate artist. Aside from being a singer, dancer, and actress, she also has several songwriting credits under her belt. She’s penned a number of her own singles, and some for other artists. One of which was accidentally given to R&B songstress Faith Evans, and would become a career staple.

“I Love You” was originally intended for Lopez's second studio album, J.Lo. The slow jam samples singer Isaac Hayes' 1976 song "Make a Little Love to Me.” It tells a story of a woman professing her love for a man. According to different reports, the song was inspired by Lopez’s blossoming romance with Sean “Diddy” Combs. It landed in Evans’ lap. Once received, Evans changed some of the lyrics and made the song about her then-husband, Todd Russaw. Evans and Russaw were married from 1998 until their divorce was finalized in 2011. She married him a year after the death of her first husband, the late rapper The Notorious B.I.G.

Released in 2002, the song peaked at No. 14 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and at No. 2 on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart. It became Evans' highest-charting single since her 1999 single "All Night Long.”

“I Love You” was featured on Evans’ third studio album, Faithfully. Evans would later confirm in press interviews for the album that the song, "It almost slipped through the cracks and ended up on her [Lopez’s] album."

Diddy is actually credited as a producer on the record. He and Lopez dated from 1999 to 2001, becoming a major influence in fashion and romance at the time. But their relationship was not without controversy. Kim Porter, the mother of Diddy’s second son Christian, claimed at the time that he left her for Lopez. They reconciled shortly after Lopez and Diddy split in 2001, and Porter publicly supported Diddy through legal woes. 

They later had twin daughters before splitting for good in 2006 after it was revealed that Diddy fathered a child just five months older than their twin daughters. Lopez would also later allege that Diddy was unfaithful during the relationship.

Frank Sinatra concluded touring in 1994 with what was billed as a final farewell in Tokyo, Japan. But a lesser-known appearance the following year in Palm Springs, California, is widely regarded as his final live performance in front of 1,200 VIP guests.

Palm Springs is still a favorite hideaway for celebrities escaping the bright lights of Hollywood. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa has undergone an extensive transformation since "Ol' Blue Eyes" serenaded a private audience with his greatest hits during what is widely considered the final performance of his illustrious career.

Related: Iconic ’60s Ballad Frank Sinatra Hated Became One of His Biggest Hits—And One of the Most-Requested Funeral Songs Worldwide

Staying there has never been easier, particularly as Palm Springs makes for an easy road trip for Southern Californians, no matter if it's from Los Angeles or San Diego. But it's also a worthy vacation spot if you're looking for a warm-weather getaway when temperatures become pool-friendly.

Nearby are more popular destinations such as Joshua Tree National Park, and a cluster of other cities with retro hotels and chic stays like Palm Desert, a lush oasis smack dab in the desert.

Sam Sears

That's where the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is located. Pulling into the palm-lined driveway with flamingos to your right and a swanky resort ahead, the retro motels of yesteryear quickly fade from view, replaced by what feels like an exclusive desert oasis.

The last thing you might expect in the desert — even one as green as this — is boat rides, but they've become one of the resort's signature attractions, alongside its championship golf courses and diverse dining options, from traditional hibachi to fresh sushi served in the grand lobby.

Related: Cozy Beer-Themed Hotel Was Just Crowned One of the ‘Coolest’ Stays in the World

To this day, the resort still continues to attract celebrity guests, from Doja Cat to Selling Sunset alum Heather Rae Young. You never know who you might run into in the lobby, world-class spa, or while taking in a game of miniature golf, especially when Coachella rolls around in nearby Indio.

Summer is a great time to enjoy the five sprawling pools and relaxing spa, but fall brings more comfortable temperatures for exploring the resort and nearby Palm Springs, with its Hollywood legacy and vibrant downtown.

Long before Joe Mantegna became known to millions of viewers as David Rossi on Criminal Minds, he was a teenager playing in a Beatles tribute band with one of his closest friends.

Mantegna, 78, shared a touching tribute to his longtime friend and former bandmate Neal Sordelli, who has died at age 78. Along with his message, the actor posted remarkable photos from their teenage years together, when the pair were members of a band that began as a high school project and ultimately became much more.

"Back in 1963 a few of us kids at Morton East High School got together for a Beatles tribute we called The Weasels," Mantegna wrote on Instagram. "What started as a school project turned into something much bigger, we started playing sock hops and teen dances and eventually became The Apocryphals."

View this post on Instagram

Mantegna identified Sordelli as the young man sitting on the car in the first photo he shared.

"Neal Sordelli, sitting on the car in the first photo, was there from the very beginning," he continued. "He was the guitarist, the musical heart and soul of the band, and one of my oldest and dearest friends."

"I'm grateful I got to share those early years with him," Mantegna added. "Rest in peace, Delli. You will always be a part of the music, the memories, and the kid I was back then."

Joe Mantegna and Neal Sordelli's Band Started as a School Project

The story behind the photos is almost as remarkable as Mantegna's subsequent acting career.

According to a 2020 Chicago Reader history of the Apocryphals, Mantegna was a junior at Morton East High School in Cicero, Ill., when an English class was given an assignment about British culture.

Sordelli and classmates Art Stout and Ricky Johnson decided to turn their project into a Beatles tribute called the Weasels. Mantegna was recruited to sing and play bass, despite not actually knowing how to play an instrument at the time.

The teenagers' Beatles act proved so popular that what had begun as a school project spilled out into sock hops and teen dances. The group eventually became the Apocryphals, with Sordelli on guitar and Mantegna on bass and vocals.

They weren't merely pretending to be rock stars for long.

The Apocryphals became fixtures on the Chicago-area teen music circuit and recorded a series of singles during the 1960s. Mantegna and Sordelli even co-wrote "Bernardine," which became the A-side of the band's first single in 1965.

Their story also intersected with some major names in music.

Future Ides of March frontman Jim Peterik played tambourine on the Apocryphals' first single, according to the Reader. The group also shared bills with acts including Paul Revere & the Raiders and Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs and even opened for Neil Diamond in April 1968.

The Apocryphals were also friends with members of the Missing Links, including Terry Kath and Danny Seraphine, who would become founding members of Chicago Transit Authority, later known simply as Chicago. Fittingly, Chicago's official Instagram account was among those that liked Mantegna's tribute to Sordelli.

Joe Mantegna's Co-Stars Send Their Love

Mantegna ultimately chose a different kind of stage. He began studying at DePaul University's Goodman School of Drama and made his professional acting debut in a Chicago production of Hair in 1969. With eight performances a week demanding his time, his days as a regular member of the Apocryphals came to an end.

His acting career eventually brought him a Tony Award for David Mamet's Glengarry Glen Ross, numerous film and television roles and his long-running role as Rossi on Criminal Minds.

But Mantegna never forgot the band or the friends with whom he started it.

His Criminal Minds co-stars were among those offering their support following his tribute to Sordelli.

"I look forward to giving this a look and i send you a deep breath and so much love from the pain of this loss ❤️," Kirsten Vangsness wrote.

Adam Rodriguez responded with "🔥❤️🔥," while Criminal Minds makeup artist Valentino Agundez offered her condolences, writing, "May all the good memories of him soothe your heart, and the hearts of his family, friends and loved ones, through this loss."

Actress Gail O'Grady added, "Love this ❤️."

Mantegna encouraged his followers to learn more about the Apocryphals' story through a fan-made video featuring photos from the band's early years and the Chicago Reader retrospective.

More than six decades after the Weasels began as a group of high school kids paying tribute to the Beatles, Mantegna's message made clear that Sordelli remained inseparable from those memories.

"You will always be a part of the music, the memories, and the kid I was back then," he wrote.

Related: National Memorial Day Concert Host Replaced at the Last Minute

In 1972, rock band Mott the Hoople released a track that would go on to become a career-defining hit — and one that would save the rockers' career.

The song "All the Young Dudes" was put out into the world on July 28, 1972, with the studio album of the same name following less than a year later. Written by David Bowie, the glam rock hit has been credited for giving the band a new lease of life, with the five-piece reportedly on the verge of breaking up, before Bowie offered the band the track.

"I literally wrote it within an hour or so of hearing their breakup was imminent," Bowie recalled, per Far Out. "They were a fair little band, and I thought, 'This will be an interesting thing to do, let’s see if I can write them a song and keep them together."

It was the first song that the legendary British musician had written for someone else, and it undoubtedly became a hit, just as Bowie had suspected. "All the Young Dudes" soared to No. 3 on the U.K. Official Singles Chart, spending 11 weeks on the chart in total. In the United States, the track hit No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the band's biggest hit in the U.S. Rolling Stone went on to rank the track at No. 166 on its list of "500 greatest songs of all time".

When Bowie first offered the track by playing it on acoustic guitar, the band knew that it had a winner on its hands.

"The first thing [I thought] was I can sing this. And the second thing was like I’ve never been behind a hit before," Mott the Hoople frontman Ian Hunter recalled of the track in a 2003 interview on the Howard Stern Show. "And it’s a funny feeling because nobody else has ever heard this you know. And then I’m sitting there with the band you know and we’re listening to this and it’s obvious, isn’t it?".

Following Mott the Hoople's release, Bowie recorded and released his own version of "All the Young Dudes" in 1995 and would often perform the track live in concert.

Related: 1973 Rock Masterpiece Was Reimagined 42 Years After Its Release

George R.R. Martin, the author whose epic fantasy novel series inspired Game of Thrones, just made a rare red carpet appearance following a tough admission of "sadness and depression."

Martin, 77, skyrocketed to notoriety as the author of the A Song of Ice and Fire series. The series was adapted by HBO into the game-changing show, Game of Thrones, and its prequel series, House of the Dragon. Outside of his books, Martin is generally known as a frequently contributor to his blog, which legions of fans follow. But the literary star took a break from tapping the computer keys to make a red carpet appearance at the world premiere of Game Of Thrones: The Mad King at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre this weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. While it was great to see Martin out and about, the prolific author recently opened up about greater struggles.

Jeff Spicer / Getty Images

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Struggling With Sadness and Depression

On his blog, which is titled "Not a Blog," Martin shared that he's been battling sadness and depression after a stressful year.

"This year has been… stressful, to say the least. So much has been happening, it’s been overwhelming. Some great things, exciting things. Dreams coming true. But there have been nightmares too," he wrote. "I have lost friends. Battled sadness and depression. The worst may be yet to come. I turned seventy-seven last September, and I tell you, getting old is no fun. But there have been amazing times as well."

Martin added that he assumes "that’s just life. Of course, I knew that. If you’ve read my stories, you know that."

Martin Is Excited About Emmy Nominations

While Martin was candid about his struggles, he also posted a highlight. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, the HBO series adapted from his work, scored big with the Emmy nominations.

"One highlight you may already know. Emmy finalists for 2026 have been announced, and A KNIGHT OF THE SEVEN KINGDOMS nabbed nine nominations — yes, 9, not damn — including the big one, Best Drama," he shared.

Martin noted that he hopes to be able to attend the September 14th awards ceremony in person, but he's not quite sure if he'll be able to yet.

If you haven't watch the new series, check out the trailer below:

Related: ‘Game of Thrones’ Star Lena Headey Says the Show’s Fans Were Angry She Didn’t Go Nude

Peter Frampton had “Baby, I Love Your Way.” Lynyrd Skynyrd had “Free Bird.” Both were foundational. But neither reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. That is until 1988, when a Florida dance-pop group known as Will to Power had the unlikely idea of mashing the two rock classics together. It's that Franken-hit that somehow became a chart-topping smash.

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Released in August 1988, “Baby, I Love Your Way/Freebird Medley,” sometimes styled as “Free Baby,” combines Frampton’s 1976 hit with Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 1975 timeless masterpiece. In the blended rendition, Carr sings the warm, pleading verses of Frampton’s “Baby, I Love Your Way,” while Rosenberg counters with the restless lines of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” over a breezy synth-pop beat.

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It sounds like the kind of mashup that should have existed only as a novelty, yet it became one of the biggest songs in America.

The song came out of necessity after Rosenberg signed with Epic Records and needed material for an album. Following the Miami producer’s success with the dance track “Dreamin’,” he was tasked with finding another chart-climber as the record company clamored for a debut studio album.

Rosenberg, who was also a deejay, worked his magic with a pair of popular hits. Songfacts stated that because Miami radio station Power 96 started playing the song in heavy rotation, Will to Power released it as a single from their self-titled debut shortly after.

That December, the song climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for one week. The music video was another hit. Featuring Rosenberg and Carr as a couple, the visuals directed by S.A. Baron received plenty of airplay on networks like VH1, helping to solidify the mashup as one of the most unlikely hits.

When this new version of "Baby, I Love Your Way" reached No. 1, Frampton told the L.A. Times he was "thrilled.” "I always thought it was a strong song," he said. "And it's definitely not hurting my situation."

Though the track reached No. 1 on the all-genre tally, it was kept from the pinnacle spot on the adult contemporary chart. Anita Baker’s “Giving You the Best That I Got” and then Boy Meets Girl’s “Waiting for a Star to Fall” were in full domination mode there.

Frampton, Allen Collins, and Ronnie Van Zant are all credited with the track’s songwriting, and the song gave them a boost of cash and motivation.

“Frampton hadn’t stopped making music, but he couldn’t get any airplay for new songs once the '80s rolled around,” Songfacts wrote. “This medley proved there was still an audience for his work; he released another album in 1989.”

Lynyrd Skynyrd would release another album in 1991.

Will to Power, which began as a trio featuring Rosenberg, Dr. J, and Maria Mendez and later became a duo, continued releasing music after their chart-topping hit. Despite several lineup changes, the duo scored another Top 10 hit with “Fading Away” in 1989, which hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play and No. 2 on the Hot Dance Singles Sales charts after finding its way into nightclubs as an essential banger.

In 1990, the duo, then consisting of Rosenberg and Elin Michaels, got back to its roots and put out a remix, re-envisioning 10cc’s 1975 art-pop masterpiece “I’m Not in Love” into an uptempo, synth-pop and adult contemporary hit featuring a sax solo by Ed Calle. Fans loved it, sending the song to No. 7 on the Hot 100.

Rosenberg continued the Will to Power name into the 2000s, releasing albums including Shalom and Spirit Warrior, which featured a new version of the early dance hit “Dreamin’.” Today, Rosenberg and Michaels continue to perform together.

Related: 1964 Heartbreak Hit, Co-Written by Burt Bacharach, Turned a 17-Year-Old Singer Into a No. 1 Star

​

In 1991, Reba McEntire put her own spin on a song that was written and released over 20 years earlier — Bobbie Gentry’s “Fancy.” 

Already a hit for Gentry, the track reached No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 26 on the Hot Country Songs chart. But, decades later, McEntire would introduce the song to a new generation, and in turn, the Southern Gothic classic became one of her signature songs and a major success for her. 

RELATED: 1994 No. 1 Breakthrough Song, Written by a 22 Year Old, Is Still a Powerful Hit 32 Years Later

Though McEntire’s version never went No. 1, it surpassed the original on the country charts, reaching No. 8 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. Her version also ranked at No. 65 on Rolling Stone’s 2024 list of “200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.”

“Fancy” was released as a single on Feb. 11, 1991, but McEntire had wanted to record the track since 1984. Producer Jimmy Bowen initially opposed the idea, and it wasn’t until Tony Brown began producing her records that she finally recorded it for her Rumor Has It album.

“I always wanted to record it,” McEntire shared in a 2019 interview with Country Living. “Then [producer] Tony Brown said,‘What’s a song you’d like to do a remake of?’ And I said, ‘Fancy.’ He said, 'That’s one of my favorite songs, too.' And so we recorded it.”

McEntire even had a hand in the making of the music video directed by Jack Cole. The clip finds her portraying the adult version of Fancy Rae Baker, the character from the song. She plays a now-famous Fancy who takes a cab to the rickety shack where she once lived, drawing up old memories of her troubled past through heartbreaking flashbacks. 

Written by Gentry, “Fancy” provides a masterclass in storytelling, offering vivid details throughout its nearly five-minute runtime. The song is told from the perspective of a young girl named Fancy, who looks back on growing up in poverty in a one-room shack on the outskirts of New Orleans with her mother and infant sibling. In a desperate attempt to give Fancy a chance for a better life, her mother spends their last penny on a satin dancing dress for 18-year-old Fancy, dolls her up, and sends her out into the world, telling her, “Here's your one chance, Fancy, don't let me down.” 

Later verses find Fancy escaping poverty after being taken in by a benevolent man. She eventually becomes involved with powerful men, and acquires a mansion and a townhouse. Looking back on her upbringing, Fancy pushes back against the critics who judged her mother for sending her out into the world. 

RELATED: 1999 Power Ballad, Lasting 53 Weeks on the Charts, Ranked Among ‘Favorite Country Love Songs of All Time’

Of why she felt the urge to record the song, McEntire shared: “It’s a rags-to-riches story. I love rags-to-riches stories. Cinderella,Annie Get Your Gun, all poverty, and then make it big in the world. Well, she did, too. Fancy, she had a lot going against her, and she persevered and moved on.”

Related: 1970 No. 1 Hit, Reimagined by Scotty McCreery, Ranked Among ‘Best Country Songs of All Time’

Jared Padalecki thought he was extending some kindness to Perez Hilton amid the celebrity blogger's hospitalization. Instead, the message landed him in hot water with fans.

On Sunday, August 9, the Supernatural star posted a message on X wishing Hilton well following reports about his serious condition. "Hey @PerezHilton Just wanted to reach out and let you know that you're in my thoughts. This 'being human' is a strange thing. Exhilarating. Exhausting. Fast. Slow. Wonderful… and… at times… awful," Padalecki wrote, per TV Insider.

The post quickly drew criticism from users who pointed to Hilton's controversial history and past treatment of celebrities. Padalecki subsequently deleted the message and responded, "I didn't know. It's been brought to my attention. I'm sorry," in a follow-up post.

I didn’t know. It’s been brought to my attention. I’m sorry ❤️

— Jared Padalecki (@jarpad) August 9, 2026

The 44-year-old then returned with a much longer explanation. "I had ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA about his past," he wrote in a third post, explaining that while he'd heard of Hilton and knew the blogger hadn't always been kind to him personally, he believed in offering "grace and forgiveness,” because in his experience, “It usually works out better than holding a grudge or wishing punishment on someone else.”

Padalecki said he had never visited Hilton's websites and had assumed he was simply a "'tabloid' type of sensationalist journalist.” After apparently learning more from fans, however, he made his position on the matter known. "I DO NOT stand for, or support, ANY of the actions I just now found out that he has committed. Full stop," he wrote. "I'm sorry if my words caused any harm."

Fans seem to have forgiven the Gilmore Girls alum for the most part.

“You shouldn't apologise for being kind, I admire your kindness towards those who struggle themselves,” one fan responded.

“You gave grace and that is not a bad thing.  Thank you for being human and a really good guy.” another said.

A third wrote, “Wishing someone well after something horrific isn’t an endorsement of every shitty thing they’ve done.”

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The controversy unfolded as Hilton, 48, remains hospitalized following a serious August 4 self-harm incident which was documented on TikTok Live.

His family and team initially confirmed he was receiving medical care in the Miami area and asked for privacy. In an August 8 update, his team said Hilton had experienced "significant blood loss" and additional injuries and remained in serious but stable condition.

Hilton is also expected to undergo surgery, though details about the procedure have not been disclosed. His representatives cautioned that his treatment and recovery are expected to be a "long process," with no timeline yet provided for his release from the hospital.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

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If you’re a Dolly Parton fan — or shopping for one — this $24 tray is a sweet little find that brings charm wherever it’s placed. It works just as well styled on your own table as it does as for gifting on special occasions.

Right now, the Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Tray is available for just $23 at Walmart and Amazon, which is a great price for piece made from durable, long-lasting stoneware. It measures 13 by 9 inches and features Parton’s signature butterfly motif in a shimmering jeweled mosaic design. It also includes one of her most-quoted lyrics from her 2014 song Try: “Dreams are of no value if they’re not equipped with wings.” 

Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Tray, $23 at Walmart and Amazon

Courtesy of Walmart

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The star of this platter is the design. The blue mosaic pattern features glittery butterflies that bring sparkle wherever it’s placed  — whether that's a kitchen counter, a console table, or a dinner party spread. 

With Parton’s popular song lyric etched into the tray, it’s an inspiring gift for weddings, birthdays, and fans of the country icon. One shopper shared, “Lovely plate to give to my daughter with the quote from Dolly.” Another said they bought it for their daughter's wedding, and it "was more beautiful than expected.”

Beyond gifting, it’s just as practical for everyday use. Bring it out for charcuterie boards and movie night snacks, or even use it on a vanity to corral jewelry and perfume bottles. It’s also dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup easy after entertaining.

If you’re looking to build a matching set, the Dolly Parton collection at Walmart also includes a Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic 12-inch Sharing Plate for $25.

Related: Dolly Parton's Cast Iron Lodge Skillet Doubles as a 'Beautiful' Display Piece, and It's on Sale

For anyone whose tablescape could use a little sparkle, the Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Tray is an easy pick for just $23. Head to Walmart or Amazon to grab one while it’s still in stock. 

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On Aug. 9, 1969, the murder of 26-year-old actress Sharon Tate shook the nation as she was eight and a half months pregnant and was found dead at her home in Los Angeles along with four others.

Tate was the highest-profile victim on a killing spree that was conducted by the followers of cult leader Charles Manson. At the time of her death, she was one of Hollywood's biggest stars, having appeared in television roles before landing films such as The Fearless Vampire Killers, Don’t Make Waves and Valley of the Dolls. Tate married director Roman Polanski in January 1968 and became pregnant with the couple's first child.

Before the murders, Tate went to dinner with her friends Jay Sebring, Abigail Folger, and Wojciech Frykowski. Afterwards, they all returned to her house. It was just after midnight when Manson's followers, Charles D. “Tex” Watson, Patricia Krenwinkel and Susan Atkins, entered the house and killed the four, as well as Steven Parent, who was leaving the home. Specifically, Tate was killed by Atkins, who went on to testify and say she didn't remember how many times she stabbed the actress.

Corner Dr. Thomas T. Noguchi later said it was 16 times when he took the stand.

“She said, ‘Please don’t kill me,’ and I told her to shut up, and I threw her down on the couch,” Atkins testified, per PEOPLE. “She said, ‘Please let me have my baby.’ Then Tex came in, and he said, ‘Kill her,’ and I killed her. I just stabbed her, and she fell, and I stabbed her again. I don’t know how many times. I don’t know why I stabbed her.”

This crime was ultimately tied to Manson, with him and his followers ultimately being convicted of nine murders. As for Manson, he was sentenced to nine life sentences in prison and died at the age of 83 in November 2017.

Don Nelson, the second-winningest coach in NBA history has died at the age of 86 on Sunday, Aug. 9, his family announced.

"On Sunday morning our beloved husband, dad, grandfather and great-grandfather Don Nelson peacefully went to be with the Lord, surrounded by his loving family," they shared in a statement, per ESPN. "Throughout his last week, friends and family encircled him with love, sharing the blessing of his friendship and revisiting treasured memories."

Nelson served as the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and Dallas Mavericks. Throughout this time, he was a three-time winner of the NBA Coach of the Year award (1983, '85, '92).

"A basketball innovator. A Mavericks legend. An impact that will never be forgotten. We mourn the passing of former Mavericks head coach Don Nelson and celebrate a life that left an incredible mark on our franchise and the game of basketball. Rest in peace, Nellie," the Mavericks posted.

"Don Nelson was a true innovator whose influence on the game of basketball is still felt today," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said in a statement. "He consistently challenged conventional thinking, experimented with different lineups and styles of play and saw possibilities in the game that others often did not. So much of what is now commonplace in the modern NBA can be traced back to the way Nellie approached the game."

But before his time leading the teams, he played on the Boston Celtics for 11 seasons, going on to win five NBA titles. The team retired his No. 19 jersey in 1978.

"Don Nelson’s success as a Hall of Fame Coach is so vast, that it could overshadow his playing career, but it would be a mistake to do so. A favorite of Red Auerbach’s, “Nellie” was a tough and reliable all-around player whose tenacity and ability to “think the game” was on full display throughout his 11 seasons with the Boston Celtics, where he was a key member of five championship teams across two eras. His most celebrated moment as a player came in Game 7 of the 1969 NBA Finals against his former team the Los Angeles Lakers, when Nelson converted one of the most famous shots in playoff history—a foul-line jumper which dropped through the basket after hitting the back rim and bouncing several feet straight up. The shot, taken with just over a minute to go in the game and the Celtics clinging to a 103–102 lead, was an essential play in helping secure Boston's 11th NBA title in 13 seasons. Nellie’s number 19 was raised shortly after he retired following yet another championship season in 1976. The Celtics extend our deep condolences to Nelson’s family, loved ones, and everyone he touched through his rich and impactful life in basketball and beyond," the Celtics said in a statement.

He finished with a regular-season record of 1,335-1,063 as well as a 75-91 postseason record. When he retired, he held the record for the most wins ever, but it was broken by  San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich in March 2022.

In the late 1970s, few songs captured the frustrations of a generation as powerfully as "Alternative Ulster."

Released by Stiff Little Fingers in 1978, the explosive punk anthem was written and sung by Jake Burns, who was just 20 years old at the time. Drawing inspiration from life in Northern Ireland during one of its most turbulent periods, the song has endured for nearly five decades as both a rallying cry and one of punk's defining recordings.

Burns wrote "Alternative Ulster" out of frustration with the world around him.

The title came from a Belfast fanzine that encouraged young people to create their own cultural identity instead of accepting the violence and political division that dominated daily life. Rather than focusing on one side of the conflict, Burns channeled the boredom, anger, and lack of opportunity experienced by many young people growing up during the Troubles, giving the song a message that reached far beyond Northern Ireland.

"It was a song written in the classic punk mode about having nothing to do," Burns told The Guardian in 2003. "Because that was the over-riding reality of life in Belfast for a teenager in the mid-70s. Not the fear of riots or bombs or whatever. It was the sheer tedium of having nowhere to go and nothing to do when you got there."

Its urgency immediately set it apart.

Driven by razor-sharp guitars, a relentless rhythm, and Burns' impassioned vocal, "Alternative Ulster" combined the raw energy of punk with lyrics that challenged listeners to imagine something better. The song became the centerpiece of the band's live performances and helped establish Stiff Little Fingers as one of the most important voices in politically conscious punk rock.

Although it wasn't a major chart hit, its influence proved enormous.

"Alternative Ulster" became a staple of punk compilations and has regularly appeared on lists celebrating the greatest punk songs ever recorded. It also introduced countless listeners to Stiff Little Fingers, whose landmark debut album, Inflammable Material, is widely regarded as one of the genre's essential releases.

The song's message continues to resonate.

While its lyrics were rooted in a specific time and place, themes of resilience, self-determination, and hope have allowed "Alternative Ulster" to connect with successive generations. More than a protest song, it remains an anthem encouraging people to challenge their circumstances and work toward something better.

"If you took the references to the RUC and the British Army out you have a song that is about bored teenagers," Burns told VICE in 2017. "A song about having nothing to do and wanting that to change. It complains as much about tired venues and their unwillingness to allow young people to play there as it does about the fact that there are police and army on the streets.

Forty-eight years after its release, "Alternative Ulster" still stands as one of punk's most inspiring classics. Written and performed by a 20 year-old Jake Burns, the 1978 rocker transformed youthful frustration into a timeless anthem whose message remains every bit as powerful today.

Related: 1963 Rock Song With 19-Year-Old Singer, Covered by The Rolling Stones, Is Still a Powerful Hit 63 Years Later

U2 fans are about to get a closer look at the stories behind some of the band's most recognizable songs.

U2 All the Songs arrives Oct. 6, 2026, offering a track-by-track examination of the Irish rock band's five-decade recording history.

The $60 hardcover book goes beyond simply listing U2's biggest hits. It explores how the band's songs came together, from their origins and songwriting to the recording and production process that helped turn them into international favorites.

Among the songs featured are some of U2's best-known tracks, including "With or Without You," released in 1987, and "Beautiful Day," which became one of the band's biggest hits more than a decade later.

For longtime fans, the book offers a chance to revisit those songs with more context about how they went from ideas in the studio to anthems known around the world.

U2 formed in Dublin in 1976 with Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen Jr. Over the following decades, the band became one of the biggest acts in rock, releasing albums including The Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby, All That You Can't Leave Behind and How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb.

Their catalog has produced songs that have remained staples of rock radio and live performances for generations, making the band's creative process a natural fit for a book devoted entirely to its music.

U2 All the Songs is part of a larger series of music books that takes a detailed look at the recordings and creative histories of major artists.

The book will be released Oct. 6, giving U2 fans a new way to revisit the band's music and perhaps discover a few details about familiar songs they didn't know before.

RELATED: Johnny Cash’s ‘Ring of Fire’ Was Co-Written by Merle Kilgore, a Country Music Pioneer