"American Pie" singer Don McLean isn’t too impressed with modern songwriters.
On the red carpet at the MovieGuide Awards, the musician told Fox News Digital the biggest change he’s seen over his career is "very bad lyric writing and no melodies. Two important things in a song, lyrics and melody."
McLean has remained a prolific performer and artist, re-releasing three of his albums, "Believers," "Chain Lightning" and "Prime Time," on vinyl and CD, as well as releasing two children’s books and continuing to tour.
"I got tons of stuff going on. I took some time off, and I’ll start rolling sometime around this summer and then go, really go all through next year," he said.
The 79-year-old also recently marked the 66th anniversary of "The Day the Music Died," when Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson died in a plane crash.
The tragedy served as the inspiration for McLean’s iconic hit, "American Pie," a song that has become an integral part of the pop culture landscape.
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But McLean says he never "planned" for the song to take off.
"People chose the song ‘American Pie.’ It wasn’t something that was planned. The minute it came out, they started to play Buddy Holly, and there wasn’t any reference to him in the song," he said.
He continued, "And a few years after that, all these radio stations started going to oldies, playing songs from the ‘50s and ’60s because they realized how much people missed this music. They miss it more now, I’m sure."
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The creation and impact of "American Pie" has been chronicled in the 2022 documentary, "The Day the Music Died: The Story of Don McLean’s American Pie," on Paramount+ and Amazon.
WATCH: DON MCLEAN ON ‘THE PEOPLE’ CHOOSING TO MAKE ‘AMERICAN PIE’ ICONIC
McLean has honored the passing of those music legends through song and acknowledgment of what has become an "unofficial holiday."
"Then the whole ‘The Day the Music Died’ started about 10 years ago, I guess. It’s sort of an unofficial holiday commemorating this solemn occasion, and the song, of course, deified that moment in a certain way," he explained.
"I was trying to write a big song about America, and so that’s how that all happened, but again, it all happened from the people," he added.
McLean can be seen presenting the best documentary category at the MovieGuide Awards airing March 6 on Great American Family.
The singer of the iconic punk group The New York Dolls has been secretly battling stage 4 cancer for the last several years.
David Johansen's wife of over a decade, Mara Hennessey, told Fox News Digital about his diagnosis.
"David has been living with stage 4 cancer for several years. He’s undergone chemo, radiation, immunotherapy and surgery, and weathered all the side effects and consequences of the various treatments, all with his indomitable spirit and incomparable sense of humor.
"He’s been nurtured by the love of his wife and daughter, while trying to spare his friends, colleagues, and fans and keep his troubles private. He’s always been like this," Hennessey said.
"He claims it’s because he’s half Norwegian," she continued.
Hennessey explained that the financial burden has taken a toll on their family.
"Our family have reached the point where we need more support. We’ve run up some serious debt caring for our beloved David, and are facing still more unmanageable expenses. This trying to be low-key is not sustainable," she concluded.
Johansen's daughter, Leah Hennessey, took to Instagram to share the sad news on Monday.
"David is a legend but he's also my very real very sick dad," she wrote alongside a picture of him on her Instagram story. "I have so much to say but I guess I'll be posting about this a lot and I don't have to say it all now. I know how dire so many of our situations are right now, and how much fundraising literally everyone is doing but if you love David or any of the magick (sic) he's brought into the world please just take a minute to read this or share it. Thank you guys as always."
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Leah also included a link to the Sweet Relief Musician Fund. The organization helps raise money for musicians who are struggling with health problems.
His daughter explained on the website that five years ago, Johansen's cancer progressed and he had a brain tumor.
"There have been complications ever since. He’s never made his diagnosis public, as he and my mother Mara are generally very private people, but we feel compelled to share this now, due to the increasingly severe financial burden our family is facing," the website states.
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According to Leah, things took a turn for the worse during Thanksgiving.
"To make matters worse, the day after Thanksgiving, David fell down the stairs and broke his back in two places," she wrote on the website.
Johansen has since had surgery, but Leah said, "David has been bedridden and incapacitated. Due to the trauma, David’s illness has progressed exponentially and my mother is caring for him around the clock."
Aside from the New York Dolls, Johansen is known for his alter ego, Buster Poindexter. In 1987, his song "Hot Hot Hot" was a Billboard hit.
Travis Barker is still struggling with his fear of flying after narrowly surviving a deadly plane crash more than 16 years ago.
In September 2008, Barker and his collaborator Adam "DJ AM" Goldstein were flying on a private Learjet that crashed in Columbia, South Carolina, after it caught fire. Barker and Goldstein were the only survivors of the six people on board the aircraft.
The musician, who was seriously injured in the incident, has battled PTSD and flew in a plane for the first time since the crash in 2021 after initially vowing never to board a plane again.
TRAVIS BARKER REPORTEDLY HOSPITALIZED IN LOS ANGELES, HIS DAUGHTER ASKS FOR PRAYERS
During an interview with Fox News Digital, Barker admitted that he hesitated over taking the trip to New Orleans this weekend, when he hosted his Run Travis Run event on Friday ahead of his performance at FanDuel x Spotify Super Bowl Party. He said that he was shaken by the two plane crashes that shocked the world just over a week ago.
"It actually doesn't help me move past it, it makes it much worse," he admitted. "I almost didn't come."
"It's hard for me to get on flights," he continued. "I do it sober. I don't need to take anything. I don't need to do anything. But it just gets harder and harder. Especially when your biggest fears, like, you start to see them come to life in reality.
"When you kind of tell yourself, these things never happen. These things never happen. And then, just lately, I feel like we've been — like we're seeing it almost every day."
On Jan. 29, a United States Army Black Hawk helicopter collided midair with an American Airlines commercial passenger plane over the Potomac River as the airliner was preparing to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. All 67 people, including 64 on the plane and three in the helicopter, perished in the crash.
WATCH: TRAVIS BARKER SAYS RECENT PLANE CRASHES ARE BIGGEST FEAR COME TO LIFE AFTER SURVIVING DEADLY 2008 FLIGHT
The disaster marked the first major crash involving a U.S. passenger plane since 2009. It was also the deadliest crash since an American Airlines international passenger plane plummeted into a neighborhood in Queens, New York, which claimed the lives of all 260 people on board.
Just two days later, a medical jet crashed into a neighborhood in Philadelphia, killing all six people on board, including a young girl and her mother.
After the 2008 crash, Barker sustained severe burns all over his body. He spent 11 weeks in the hospital and his recovery included 16 surgeries and numerous skin grafts. Barker has credited the crash with helping him overcome his addiction to painkillers. Goldstein, who suffered severe second- and third-degree burns on his arms and scalp, died a year later from a drug overdose.
In August 2021, Barker took his first flight since the tragedy, accompanying his then-girlfriend Kourtney Kardashian, her mother Kris Jenner and the Kardashian family matriarch's boyfriend Corey Gamble on a trip to Cabo, Mexico, aboard Kylie Jenner's private jet.
Barker and Kourtney tied the knot in May 2022 after a year of dating. In November 2023, the couple welcomed their first child together, son Rocky Thirteen Barker. Barker is also father to son Landon, 21, and daughter Alabama, 19, who he shares with his ex-wife Shanna Moakler. Kourtney shares sons Mason, 15, and Reign,10, and daughter Penelope, 12, with her ex, Scott Disick.
While speaking with Fox News Digital at the Run Travis Run event, Barker gushed about raising Rocky and noted that his baby boy is following in his musical footsteps.
WATCH: TRAVIS BARKER SAYS HIS AND KOURTNEY KARDASHIAN'S BABY BOY ROCKY IS ‘COOLEST KID EVER’
"Baby Rocky is amazing," he said. "Playing drums, guitar, walking and running everywhere. And he's the best. He's the coolest kid ever."
The Grammy Award nominee also weighed in on the challenges and rewards of being a father to a 1-year-old.
"I think there's nothing challenging about it," he said. "The most rewarding is just starting my day and ending my day with my babies — the best — with all my kids, really. And that's my goal to start my day with them and be able to say good night to everyone and kiss them good night."
Barker also shared the secrets to his successful marriage with Kourtney.
"I think working out together is a big thing," he said. "I think date night is awesome. And I think just being with someone that's like your best friend is like, I couldn't ask for anything more."
Barker recently took the stage to perform with country star Jelly Roll at the star-studded FireAid mega-concert, which raised over $100 million for Los Angeles fire relief efforts and the disaster's victims. Last month, a number of fires devastated several different areas in the county, resulting in 29 deaths and destroying nearly 17,000 structures.
In addition to being a part of the lineup at the FireAid concert, Barker is also using his Run Travis Run event to help with the fires' aftermath. According to a press release for the event, all proceeds will be donated to the LAFD Foundation and the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, which is helping incarcerated firefighters who battled the infernos.
WATCH: BLINK-182'S TRAVIS BARKER SHARES WHY HE BECAME A RUNNER AT HIS ‘RUN TRAVIS RUN’ EVENT
The "I Think I'm OKAY" hitmaker told Fox News Digital that he was "very grateful" that he, his family and their houses were "safe" during the fires.
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"LA was affected, you know? I mean, you guys all saw it," he said. "So for me, doing anything I could for all the fire victims and our fire department."
"That's another reason why I'm doing this," he said of Run Travis Run. "It was like an easy call for me."
"And yeah, the energy that night was incredible," Barker added of the FireAid concert.
In June 2024, Barker launched the run and wellness experience Run Travis Run, which he previously said was inspired by the healthy lifestyle that he embraced as he recovered from the injuries he sustained in the 2008 plane crash. In July, Barker and Kourtney hosted Run Travis Run events in LA and New York City, and the "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" alum also accompanied her husband to the event in New Orleans.
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According to a press release, the New Orleans edition of Run Travis Run included "a scenic run through the iconic Audobon park, followed by an unforgettable Revival Zone featuring interactive activations, wellness experiences, and exclusive access to premium brands."
Participants also receive a commemorative shirt, a custom medal and an all-access pass to the celebration.
During his interview with Fox News Digital, Barker reflected on how he became a runner.
"I just started running one day." Honestly, it's very similar to Forrest Gump," he said, referencing the character played by Tom Hanks in the Academy Award-winning 1994 movie "Forrest Gump." In the film, Hanks' character earns fame when he spontaneously embarks on a three-year cross-country run.
"I just started running, like, 20 years ago, maybe 15 years ago," Barker said. "It's been about 20 years now, and I started running and boxing at the same time. And it was just like my outlet. It was kind of a form of meditation, and it also helped me keep my stamina, my endurance for drumming and doing some of the fitness stuff I love to do."
"And just staying healthy," he added. "Once I had kids, I had this urge to be as healthy as I could be."
However, Barker admitted that he has sustained some injuries during training.
"I've actually been hurt a couple of times," he said. "So, like with running, I think I overtrained a little bit after my last 5K. I tried to beat my record, which is a 20-minute 5K, and I didn't and then I kind of got down on myself. I got harder on myself, and I was like, ‘I can run six miles a day’ and three miles into it, I hurt my hip."
"So I think I've been running like a week and a half now again. But yeah, I'll stay on the assault bike during that time or boxing."
Despite being injured, Barker said that he was determined to keep running.
"I'm going to do this regardless, whether I'm here in a park with however many people, or I'm solo. I run three to five miles a day."
Carrie Underwood showcased her next big move following her triumphant performance at President Donald Trump's inauguration.
Underwood will appear as a judge on season 23 of "American Idol" and took to social media to celebrate her upcoming gig with her fans.
"'Then' as a contestant vs. ‘Now’ as a judge 20 years later!" Underwood captioned a post on Instagram. The now 41-year-old singer won season four of the singing competition.
‘AMERICAN IDOL’ ALUM CARRIE UNDERWOOD REPLACING KATY PERRY AS JUDGE
APP USERS CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE INSTAGRAM POST
Underwood revealed she is "counting down" the days until the season premiere of "American Idol" on March 9.
The singer recently performed at President Trump's inauguration, where she sang "America the Beautiful" a cappella after some technical difficulties.
The "Jesus, Take the Wheel" singer was seen telling the production team "I can just sing it" after the accompanying music would not play.
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Underwood replaced "American Idol" judge Katy Perry. Auditions for the latest season began on August 12.
"This upcoming season marks 20 years since Carrie won America’s hearts on ‘Idol’ and launched her successful multi-GRAMMY Award-winning career. As a former Idol and dynamic musical force, she brings a remarkably unique perspective to one of the most popular shows on television," Disney Television Group President Craig Erwich said in a press release in August. "This is a full-circle moment both for the show and audiences at home who have been tuning in for over two decades. Welcome home, Carrie."
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When asked what kind of judge she would be on the popular singing competition show, she admitted, "I do have a big problem … I can’t lie."
"I feel like I’ll be very honest but hopefully constructive and encouraging," Underwood told "Good Morning America," ahead of her debut.
The "Before He Cheats" singer also reflected on how she feels returning to the show after being crowned the "American Idol" in 2005.
"It feels like home," Underwood said. "There are so many people that even still work on the show that were there when I was a contestant."
"I feel like being on both sides of the coin, I’ll be able to hopefully offer some insight, and help. . . . "
Fox News Digital's Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.
Country star Colt Ford shared that he and Jelly Roll were able to bond over what it's like to be the "big guys."
During a recent interview with People, Ford revealed that he and Jelly Roll hung out backstage at one of the "Save Me" singer's concerts, where they discussed the complicated feelings that come with trying to live a healthier lifestyle when so much of your public image is associated with weight.
"Jelly has lost a bunch of weight," Ford told the outlet. "You start to think when you're a big guy like that and people love you, 'What if I lose weight? Are they going to still like me?' And I'm like, 'No, bro. I thought that for so long. No, no, no. As long as you're who you are, and you're authentic and good to people, s---, they don't care.'"
Ford, who once weighed 340 pounds, began his health journey in 2022, after he was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness, dropping to 250 pounds.
COUNTRY STAR COLT FORD SAYS HE 'DIED TWO TIMES' AFTER SUFFERING A HEART ATTACK
Following a near-fatal heart attack in April 2024, Ford committed to an even bigger lifestyle change, revealing he has since given up fried food and soda, and has begun walking more.
"There's much easier diets," he said. "But when I tried to lose weight before, when you're as heavy as I was... you feel like you're working hard and you still look in the mirror and go, 'This sucks. I'd rather just go back to [fast-food chain] Zaxby's.'"
Ford went on to share that he has not had a sip of soda or eaten any fried chicken since his health scare, explaining, "I'm eating a lot healthier. It's nice to feel good and be able to tell people like Jelly that."
In a previous interview with People, Ford shared that he knew he had successfully given up his fast-food addiction when he was able to turn down his wife's offer to go to Waffle House to celebrate his 55th birthday.
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"When I woke up, my wife Megan goes, ‘I'll take you to Waffle House,’" the singer said. "And I said, ‘Nah, I don’t want to go.’ That’s when I knew I had won. I broke the habit."
Jelly Roll has also been open about his journey to a healthier lifestyle, sharing in November 2024 that he had lost 110 pounds. He debuted his slimmer appearance at the 2024 CMA Awards, where he walked the red carpet alongside his wife, Bunnie XO, and his 15-year-old daughter, Bailee Ann.
He went into detail about what the process has been like for him on a December 2024 episode of his wife's podcast, "Dumb Blonde," explaining he went through it "publicly for a reason."
"I think that people that become as big as I became, when they lose the weight, they're kind of ashamed," he said. "They're so ashamed that they go and hide and lose the weight, and then they come back out, and they don't really know how to interact with the world, looking different or feeling different, you know? And they kind of got to find their whole new way."
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The "Church" singer also wants people to see that his success in the music industry is not dependent on his size, saying he "became successful in spite of" his weight, somehow managing "to be this successful with carrying 550 pounds."
Country music star Colt Ford is switching up his diet after he suffered a heart attack last April.
The "Slow Ride" singer shared that he ditched certain food and drinks, including fried chicken and Mountain Dew, since his health crisis left him in an 8-day coma.
Ford explained that for his 55th birthday he turned down his wife’s invitation to a famous dining establishment for the sake of his health.
COUNTRY STAR COLT FORD SAYS HE 'DIED TWO TIMES' AFTER SUFFERING A HEART ATTACK
"When I woke up, my wife Megan goes, ‘I’ll take you to Waffle House,’" he told People.
"And I said, ‘Nah, I don’t want to go.’ That’s when I knew I had won. I broke the habit."
Ford, who co-wrote fellow country star Jason Aldean’s popular song "Dirt Road Anthem," and has collaborated with Toby Keith, described how his healthier lifestyle allowed him to shed 60 pounds.
"I’m wearing a 32-inch waist now instead of 44 — but I’ve told everybody there’s much easier diets," Ford joked. "I’m looking at it as a blessing. I’m going to be healthier than I’ve ever been."
The pro golfer-turned-country star admitted that fried chicken and Mountain Dew were his go-to food choices and admitted he used to weigh 340 pounds at one point.
COUNTRY STAR COLT FORD'S CONDITION ‘STEADILY IMPROVING’ AFTER SUFFERING HEART ATTACK
"I loved that stuff," he confessed. "I was a terrible eater."
Ford, who’s currently 190 pounds, shared how he opted for healthier options at fast food restaurants.
"I've changed everything. If I go by Whataburger, I'll eat a grilled chicken sandwich. I don't do all the fries and stuff," he said. "McDonald's used to be my s--- and I loved it, but I haven't even craved it."
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In 2022, the country star was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness, myasthenia gravis.
Last April, Ford said he "died twice" after he had a heart attack following his performance in Phoenix, Arizona.
He flatlined twice and underwent 10-hour surgery before being placed on an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine for a week, Ford told People.
After being hospitalized and then going to rehab for two months, Ford called his experience "life-changing."
"My doctor said, ‘I have no idea how you survived.'"
"God has more for me to do," Ford concluded. "For some reason he saw fit to give me another chance, so I intend to do something positive with it."
In May 2024, Ford detailed what he could remember from his heart attack during an interview on the "Big D & Bubba" show.
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"I didn't even remember coming out here to do a show in Phoenix, and apparently we played this great, sold-out show, and it was incredible," Ford said in a phone interview at the time.
"I walked back to the bus, texted my fiancée, ‘Hi baby,’ and fell over dead. I died two times. Luckily, my band came out to check on me. … All of a sudden, that's when all hell broke loose."
Around the time of his health crisis, Ford played a show at Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row in Gilbert, Arizona, his representative said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital at the time. At one point, he was in "stable, but critical condition in the ICU."
He admitted that after texting his fiancée, "I don't remember anything."
Ford was told he was transferred to another hospital that could provide better care, and he "died on the way over" to that center, but medics "brought me back, saved my life."
"The Lord had more for me to do, more music for me to make, hopefully more differences to make in some people's lives," he remarked.
Fox News Digital's Tracy Wright contributed to this report.
Though AC/DC has spent decades in the spotlight, some fans of the Australian rock band are just learning the origin and meaning of the group's name.
In 2022, one fan posed a question on Reddit that read, "What does AC/DC actually stand for?" Over the course of two years, fans have chimed in with various thoughts.
"To some Christians, AC/DC stands for 'Anti-Christ/Devil's Child'" one response read.
AC/DC FANS RIP BAND FOR DUMPING BRIAN JOHNSON FOR AXL ROSE
"Haven’t heard that Anti Christ / Devils Child BS in ages," another user commented.
"It actually just stands for Alternating Current/Direct Current," a fan explained. "The boys went with it for 2 reasons: 1. AC/DC was all about Power (hence both the name and the music) 2. It sounded cool."
"Quite literally just power," another chimed in. "Why? Because Mal & Angus got it from the back of their sister's sewing machine. So it's quite literally power. It also helps their name that they use a lot of power chords in their songs, so not only does their name mean power, but they also deliver it."
The legendary rock band, which includes brothers Malcolm Young and Angus Young, bassist Cliff Williams, drummer Phil Rudd, vocalist Brian Johnson, and rhythm guitarist Stevie Young, was created in 1973.
During an episode of the VH1 documentary, "Behind the Music," Malcolm shared that his sister-in-law Margaret actually suggested the name and signature lightning bolt.
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"Her sewing machine had AC/DC on the back of it," he said in the documentary. "We were tossing around names for weeks and she just said it one night and everyone went ‘That’s good.’"
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"No one could agree," Dave Evans, the band's original singer, said during a recent interview on the Podpokas Podcast.
"I thought it’s an easy name to remember and it was on the side of a lot of electrical appliances," he added. "AC/DC means alternate current and direct current… I thought, free advertising. It's easy to say and it means power. It all went through my head very quickly, and I said, ‘Yes. Great, I love it.’"
The band, which has had an imperative influence on heavy metal bands throughout the years, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 and have sold over 200 million records worldwide.
The Grammy Awards 2025 red carpet kicked off Sunday at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Calif., with the Recording Academy focused on raising funds for relief efforts and honoring first responders following the LA fires.
Since launching the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort To Support Music Professionals, the Recording Academy and MusiCares have raised and pledged over $4 million in emergency aid for music professionals impacted by the crisis, according to the Recording Academy.
Taylor Swift simply stunned wearing a short red Vivienne Westwood gown with a subtle nod to boyfriend Travis Kelce on her thigh in the form of a "T" ruby chain.
GRAMMY NOMINEE POST MALONE'S COUNTRY MUSIC CHALLENGES TRADITIONAL STEREOTYPES: EXPERT
Kelsea Ballerini stepped out wearing a black Tamara Ralph mini dress adorned with sequins. A long cream-colored silk coat draped down her shoulders, with a lengthy train running across the red carpet.
Kacey Musgraves, who already won best country song for "The Architect," looked effortlessly chic wearing a white tank top paired with a glittering gold skirt and silver belt from Ralph Lauren.
JELLY ROLL PERFORMS FOR LA FIRES RESPONDERS AHEAD OF ACTING DEBUT
Sabrina Carpenter showed some skin wearing a backless baby blue JW Anderson gown with feathers wrapped around her waist and trailing around a train. A sparkling diamond halter neckline draped across her back with a massive bauble dangling down.
Charli XCX, who already won the Grammy awards for best dance pop recording and best dance/electronic album, stepped out in a periwinkle Jean Paul Gaultier gown with black gladiator heels.
Olivia Rodrigo wore a long black vintage Versace dress with a plunging neckline and cutouts along her hips. She added Tiffany & Co. jewelry to complete her bold Grammys ensemble.
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Fresh off her Grammy win for best country duo/group performance with Beyoncé, Miley Cyrus sported a black leather Saint Laurent gown on the red carpet.
Sheryl Crow sparkled wearing a strapless Missoni gown with rows of gold necklaces and a turquoise pendant.
Supermodel Heidi Klum rocked a sheer beaded gown with a thick diamond choker to match a massive bauble ring as she walked the Grammy Awards red carpet with her husband, Tokio Hotel frontman Tom Kaulitz.
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"Selling Sunset" star Chrishell Stause sported a white lace corset top with a flowing skirt and slacks by Galia Lahav. She tied up her light brown hair into a high ponytail, and wore glittering rhinestones near her eyes.
Jelly Roll is giving back to first responders who have been battling the fires in Los Angeles for over a month.
The Grammy nominee partnered with Live Nation Saturday night at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, for the "A Concert for All First Responders" to thank them for their efforts.
"I want you to know that you are here tonight because you are a hero or you are a loved one of a hero," he told the audience from the stage.
He continued, "And I knew the moment I was watching this go down all the way in Tennessee in my house, I thought if I got a chance to go to California I was gonna play music to everyone who worked their ass off for the last 2 months trying to keep the rest of this place safe. Thank y’all for having me tonight – this is awesome!"
The audience included almost 16,000 emergency personnel, including more than 1,000 incarcerated firefighters from across the state.
California has utilized inmates to combat fires for over a century, according to reporting from NPR.
During the two-hour event, Jelly Roll was joined by several guests, including Lainey Wilson, his "Save Me," duet partner, Nate Smith, Shinedown, Marshmello and Public Enemy.
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"Music has the power to bring joy and healing, and we’re honored to partner with Jelly Roll to offer that to those who’ve served the Los Angeles community during the devastating wildfires and the rebuilding process," said Geni Lincoln, president of California, Live Nation Concerts.
The concert for first responders came one day after Jelly Roll’s appearance at FireAid, raising funds for victims of the Los Angeles fires and featuring artists like Gwen Stefani and No Doubt, Dave Grohl, Billie Eilish, Katy Perry and many more.
Jelly Roll’s performance for first responders comes on the heels of the announcement of his acting debut on a show all about firefighters, CBS’ "Fire Country."
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In a promotional video released Friday, the "Son of a Sinner" singer joined series creator Max Thieriot to deliver the news to fans.
"From the stage to the fire line, it’s time to see if I can keep up," Jelly Roll said.
His episode will air in April, and Billboard reports that he will be playing a hospital orderly named Noah.
Jelly Roll also guest starred on "Tulsa King," in a cameo playing himself, making "Fire Country" the first time he’ll be playing a character.
It's been nearly two weeks since Billy Ray Cyrus stumbled onstage during a performance at President Donald Trump's inauguration celebration. Since then, fans and family members have voiced concerns about the "Achy Breaky Heart" crooner, questioning his health and stability.
On Jan. 23, Billy Ray's adopted son, Trace, wrote a message on Instagram, expressing his family's worry and asking his father to seek help.
A few days later, Billy Ray seemingly responded to Trace's public plea, saying he continues to pray for his children and their mother.
BILLY RAY CYRUS EXPLAINS TRUMP INAUGURAL BALL PERFORMANCE THAT CONCERNED FANS
"Let this moment be the start of healing for us all," he wrote on Instagram.
The public feuding is nothing new for the Cyrus clan. As a prominent family in the music industry, each member, including Billy Ray, ex-wife Tish, and their children — Trace, Brandi, Miley, Braison and Noah, — have experienced various forms of betrayal and heartache, all while navigating the chaos in the public eye.
Here's a look at the Cyrus family and the drama that has unfolded throughout the years.
From allegations of abuse to public rifts with his children, the patriarch of the Cyrus family has had his share of ups and downs.
Billy Ray married Tish Cyrus in 1992. The musician adopted Tish's children, Trace and his older sister, Brandi, at the time. The couple later welcomed children Miley Cyrus, Braison Cyrus and Noah Cyrus before their divorce in 2022. The singer is also father to Christopher Cyrus with ex-wife Kristin Luckey.
After announcing his divorce from Tish in April 2022, Billy Ray got engaged to Firerose, whose real name Johanna Rosie Hodges, that August.
BILLY RAY CYRUS CLAIMS ESTRANGED WIFE BEGGED HIM TO TAKE HER BACK AFTER NASTY SPLIT
"Everyone knew that that relationship was over a long time ago," Billy Ray told People magazine of his split from Tish. "Everybody's turning the page. It's been a lot, but everyone knew that it was time for a change."
Billy Ray and Firerose married in October 2023. The following May, Billy Ray filed for an annulment, citing "irreconcilable differences" and alleged "inappropriate marital conduct" in documents obtained by Fox News Digital at the time.
Toward the end, both claimed they were victims of abuse in their marriage.
Earlier this month, Billy Ray sparked concern after a confusing performance at Trump's inauguration celebration Jan. 20.
In a statement to People magazine the next day, he said, "I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event whether my microphone, guitar and monitors worked or not. I was there because President Donald J. Trump invited me.
"I had a ball at the Liberty Ball last night, and I’ve learned through all these years when the producer says, 'You’re on,' you go entertain the folks even if the equipment goes to hell. I was there for the people, and we had a blast. That’s called rock n' roll!!!"
Tish's relationship with Billy Ray had its flaws throughout their marriage. The Cyrus family matriarch and Billy Ray had previously gone through two divorce filings before officially calling it quits in 2022.
In April 2022, Tish filed for divorce, citing "irreconcilable differences."
"It is after 30 years, five amazing children and a lifetime of memories, we have decided to go our separate ways — not with sadness, but with love in our hearts," Tish and Billy Ray said in a joint statement to People at the time. "We have grown up together, raised a family we can be so proud of and it is now time to create our own paths.
"We will always be family and look forward to a continued and loving shared experience as friends and parents. We have not come to this decision lightly or quickly, but with so much going on in the world, we wanted to provide some clarity and closure, so we can remain focused on what is important, With Love and Hopec… Tish and Billy Ray Cyrus."
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Tish, who has been daughter Miley's manager for years, tied the knot with actor Dominic Purcell a year later. The wedding sparked rumors of a family feud when fans noticed her children, Noah and Braison, weren't in attendance.
Noah, who was reported to have casually dated Purcell before Tish, and Braison allegedly spent their mother's wedding day together at Walmart, where Noah wore a Billy Ray shirt and posted a cryptic message about loving her father to her Instagram story.
Miley, 32, and Billy Ray starred on the Disney Channel teen sitcom "Hannah Montana" for four seasons, from 2006 to 2011.
In a 2011 interview with GQ, Billy Ray said the show "destroyed" his family.
"I'll tell you right now — the damn show destroyed my family. And I sit there and go, 'Yeah, you know what? Some gave all.' It is my motto, and guess what? I have to eat that one. I some-gave-all'd it all right. I some-gave-all'd it while everybody else was going to the bank. It's all sad."
When asked if he "wished ‘Hannah Montana' never happened," he said, "I hate to say it, but yes, I do. Yeah. I'd take it back in a second. For my family to be here and just everybody be OK, safe and sound and happy and normal, would have been fantastic. Heck, yeah. I'd erase it all in a second if I could."
Miley found success as an award-winning recording artist, winning her first Grammy in 2024. However, the family drama continues to affect her in various ways.
"The divorce between her parents has put a strain on her relationship with her dad, and it's been hard to connect with him in the last year," a source previously told E! News. "She hopes they can eventually work on their relationship."
In her Hulu special, "Endless Summer Vacation: Continued (Backyard Sessions)," Miley made a rare comment about her dad and explained how fame affected them.
"I think that’s where me and my dad’s relationship to fame and success is wildly different," she said. "Him feeling loved by a big audience impacted him emotionally more than it ever could me. When he feels special or important, it’s like healing a childhood wound, and I’ve always been made to feel like a star. It makes me emotional [to think about]."
Trace, a musician who lives in Nashville, has had his share of public struggles with addiction. Now over a year sober, Trace made a plea to his father after his inaugural performance sparked concern.
"Since my earliest memories all I can remember is being obsessed with you and thinking you were the coolest person ever," he wrote on Instagram after Billy Ray's performance. "I wanted to be just like you. The day you adopted me was the happiest day of my life. Sadly the man that I wanted so desperately to be just like I barely recognize now. It seems this world has beaten you down and it’s become obvious to everyone but you."
Trace continued, saying he and "the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years but you’ve pushed all of us away.
"We haven’t talked in a while but I’m over a year and half clean from alcohol. Guess what? I feel amazing," he added. "I don’t know what you’re struggling with exactly but I think I have a pretty good idea & I’d love to help you if you would open up and receive the help. You know how to reach me. Till that day comes I will continue to pray for you."
Noah, the youngest of the Cyrus family, has never been one to shy away from speaking her mind.
In 2022, shortly after her parents' divorce, the singer-songwriter released a song titled "Noah (Stand Still)" with the help of her father.
Billy Ray expressed his joy at his daughter's strength and resilience after releasing the song, and Noah responded by calling her dad "my hero and inspiration."
Noah's relationship with her mother, Tish, has not been as smooth.
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Noah was seemingly caught in a love triangle after Tish married Dominic Purcell, who Noah reportedly had a casual relationship with before he began dating Tish.
Noah is now in a new relationship, engaged to fashion designer Pinkus.
Braison Cyrus has mostly stayed out of the public eye. However, recently he's been in his dad's corner.
"I've spent this past year getting to know my dad better than I ever have," Braison, who is working on his dad's forthcoming album, said in a press release. "I’ve heard stories, jokes and songs that I don’t think anyone else has.
"It’s an opportunity to tell my dad’s story through music, and I’m fortunate to be able to take it. Music, stories and family are the most important things to my dad, so to bring the two together is a full-circle endeavor."
MILEY CYRUS SAYS BILLY RAY SEES FAME ‘WILDLY DIFFERENT’: ‘I’VE ALWAYS BEEN MADE TO FEEL LIKE A STAR'
However, Trace recently called out his little brother for seemingly enabling his dad.
One fan recently inquired about the relationship on Trace's Instagram page, writing, "Braison is posting your dad is happy and healthy. I'm confused"
Trace responded by writing, "Birds of a feather flock together."
Brandi, the oldest of the bunch, has mostly remained by her mother's side throughout the years.
During an appearance on the "Call Her Daddy" podcast in 2024 with Tish, the two firmly disputed Billy Ray's past comments about how "Hannah Montana" ruined their family.
"Absolutely not," Tish said when asked if she agreed with Billy Ray's assertion that the Cyrus family had been "destroyed" by the show.
"Not at all," Brandi agreed. "I mean the family’s not destroyed, first of all. We’re doing great."
"No, I just think he was having a moment," Tish said.
Post Malone's gone country, and it's challenging "traditional country stereotypes," according to one music expert.
The star's genre shift landed him five of eight Grammys nominations. The artist is up for best recording package with his album "F-1 Trillion," and best country album.
His song featuring Morgan Wallen, "I Had Some Help," was nominated for best country song and best country duo/group performance. Meanwhile, the rapper's country collaboration with Beyoncé, "Levii's Jeans," was nominated for best pop duo/group performance.
"F-1 Trillion" also features a handful of big-name country artists, including Wallen, Dolly Parton, Tim McGraw, Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll.
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The singer's decision to align himself with country stars already at the top of the charts "generally fast-tracks" a transition, according to branding expert Doug Eldridge.
"When compared to 'country western' of 40 years ago, modern country is more up-tempo and pop-infused but still built around a core group of relatable issues: love, loss, faith, family and America," Eldridge told Fox News Digital. "It's arguably never been a better time for Malone — or anyone else — to dip their toes in the warm waters of country music."
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Post Malone debuted his country album, "F-1 Trillion," Aug. 16, days after he performed for the first time at the Grand Ole Opry. The singer was introduced by country star Brad Paisley, who is featured on Post Malone's single, "Goes Without Saying."
However, Post Malone's country reinvention has been "in the making for years," according to industry expert Lyric Mandell, co-founder of artist development and media management firm Tutti Agency.
"Since 2015, Post Malone has hinted at his eventual dive into country and folk music, once tweeting that he would fully embrace the genre by the time he turned 30," Mandell explained to Fox News Digital.
"Now, just under 30 and true to his word, he continues to lean into personal narratives that have always defined his music, like struggle and nostalgia, while leaning into country music’s emotional core and killer collaborators. The transition doesn’t feel forced because it isn’t; it’s a logical next step rather than a trend-chasing pivot that has been in the making for nearly a decade.=
"From a media theory perspective, Post Malone’s shift mirrors the shifting landscape of country music, where artists like Jelly Roll and now Post Malone are challenging traditional country stereotypes," she added. "The genre is embracing a rawer, more diverse group of artists who blur the lines between country, rock and hip-hop. This shift creates the perfect conditions for Post Malone’s crossover to feel both innovative and organic."
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Post Malone hasn't completely changed his tune. He worked alongside pop star Taylor Swift in 2024 to release "Fortnight," which has also been nominated for multiple Grammys. The duet is up for song of the year, record of the year and best music video.
"Genres suck," Post Malone previously told The New York Times. "It’s easier to catalog music that way. But at a certain point — and the cool thing is that it’s moving towards this — why can’t you mix all this together and make something that’s truly unique to you?"
The move "reflects a broader trend of genre-bending" in today's music industry, Mandell said.
"For him, this transition doesn’t feel like an abrupt evolution or total reinvention, but rather a natural shift. His music has always been rooted in the storytelling traditions that are fundamental to both genres."
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Post Malone's country reinvention began in his personal life. The rapper moved from Los Angeles to Utah in 2019.
"I love living here in Cottonwood Heights," Malone previously said in a video shared by the city. "It’s the most amazing place ever, and I have had such a great time over these years, and I love you guys, too."
The singer has become a part of the community, performing at the NBA All-Star Game in Salt Lake City in 2023. Post Malone also helped design a Raising Cane's restaurant in Utah's Midvale.
Jennifer Lopez shimmered as she walked the red carpet at the premiere of her latest film, "Kiss of the Spider Woman," at the Sundance Film Festival, wearing a sheer black gown with a sparkly spider web design on it.
The singer and actress accessorized the Valdrin Sahiti gown with black velvet high heels, a black velvet clutch and a few rings on her fingers. Her makeup included a nude lip with dark eyes, including bold eyeliner and lashes, paired with an elaborate updo reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour.
She posted multiple photos from the evening on social media, sharing with her fans in one of the captions that "this project has been such a labor of love" and that she's excited for her fans to see it.
"You really looked so beautiful!" one fan wrote on a different post featuring the red carpet look. "I have never thought of spiders as being beautiful, and yet, here we are. Wow," another wrote, while a third told her "you never miss."
Country music singer Kelsea Ballerini looked stunning as she posed for photos at the SiriusXM studios in black trousers and a matching suit jacket, which she paired with a sheer shirt with a black collar underneath.
She also paired the look with sheer black high-heeled shoes, a few rings and small diamond hoop earrings. The star wore her hair in a low bun with a few strands left out to frame her face.
While co-hosting on "Today with Jenna & Friends," Ballerini gave some insight into her relationship with her boyfriend Chase Stokes.
"I often hear, ‘They make me a better person.’ I like ‘bigger,’" Ballerini said. "I feel like when you get into a relationship, when you’re really ready for it, you’re already better. You should be a really healthy, good, whole version of yourself going into it."
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Renée Zellweger looked regal when she walked the red carpet at the premiere of "Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy" in Paris, wearing a sheer Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello one-shoulder gown with a scalloped neckline and floral lace patterns on it.
The actress was all smiles as she posed for photos, keeping her makeup look natural and wearing her hair in a low ponytail tied together with a black bow. She styled the look with black heels and an emerald ring.
Zellweger starred in the first "Bridget Jones Diary" movie in 2001, playing the titular character. The upcoming fourth installment follows Bridget Jones as she manages motherhood, work and dating, even dabbling with dating apps.
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Danica McKellar looked stunning as she celebrated her 50th birthday with a ballroom dancing-themed party, wearing a sparkly disco-ball inspired sequined mini dress with a halter neckline.
"Dancing truly lights up my soul and gives me a powerful motivation to stay in shape. I really think it keeps me young in mind, body and spirit!" McKellar said in a statement.
She posed for photos with many of her guests, which included fellow '90s child stars, friends and other Great American Family actors, including Candace Cameron Bure and Jesse Hutch.
Bure was all smiles as she posed in a sequined two-piece set composed of a long sleeve top and a matching high-waisted skirt. Hutch kept it casual in jeans, a black shirt and a black suit jacket over it.
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