Culture Culture 5 min read

Music legends

Rock all night with these 10 American rockstars!

Image: Kenny Eliason

Rock music is considered by many to be the most groundbreaking genre of the 21st century. It has spawned countless iconic songs, and almost 80 years since its inception, it shows no sign of slowing down. In that sense, America has produced its fair share of iconic rockstars throughout the decades. These revolutionary musicians have helped shape the music of their time, so we decided to pay homage to 10 of the most innovative and influential American rockstars in history. With that in mind, there’s only one question left to ask: Are you ready to rock?!

1
Chuck Berry

Image: Provincial Archives of Alberta

Let’s begin with the man known as the "Father of Rock and Roll." To label Chuck Berry as a pioneer would definitively misrepresent the legacy of this amazing musician; Berry was almost solely responsible for introducing the key elements that would eventually define rock music.

Songs like "Maybellene," "Roll Over Beethoven," and "Johnny B. Goode" influenced countless musicians through the ages. Legendary artists like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones famously covered some of his songs, while Bob Dylan once defined Berry as "the Shakespeare of Rock n’ Roll."

2
Bruce Springsteen

Image: Jose Antonio Gallego Vázquez

Up next, we have a boss that anyone would love to have in their office. Bruce Springsteen is undoubtedly one of New Jersey’s favorite sons. Known as "The Boss," Springsteen has dazzled the American public since his first album in 1973, earning a myriad of awards and recognitions in the process, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Known for his insane charisma and distinctive voice, Springsteen has performed with his iconic "E Street" band since 1972. Rolling Stone magazine has described him as "the embodiment of rock and roll" and included him in its list of "100 Greatest Artists of All Time."

3
Jimi Hendrix

Image: Aditya Wardhana

Can the ‘60s be summarized by one musician? Many believe they can even summarized by one performance: Jimi Hendrix’s jaw-dropping rendition of the "Star-Spangled Banner" at Woodstock. In a way, this legendary guitarist embodies the innovation and freedom that characterize this era, but make no mistake: Hendrix’s contributions to rock and roll can’t be limited to a single decade. Suffice it to say that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame considers him to be "arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music."

Born in Seattle, Hendrix showed interest in music from an early age. He bought his first guitar at age 15 and practiced daily, imitating the styles of blues musicians like B.B. King and Howlin’ Wolf. While he sadly passed away at age 27, his legacy continues to live on in every single one of his amazing songs.

4
Elvis Presley

Image: Clem Onojeghuo

Chuck Berry might have been the "Father of Rock and Roll," but Elvis Presley was this genre’s undisputed "King." This musician’s legacy is as timeless and eternal as his songs are, earning him a well-deserved spot among America’s most beloved pop culture icons. Just think of all the countless Elvis impersonators around the world to realize how iconic Elvis’s music and style were.

Elvis received his first guitar at the age of 7. Little did anyone know that this birthday gift would be the first step in a meteoric musical career. From his amazing dance moves to his unbelievable charisma, Elvis will forever be remembered as an American icon.

5
Tom Petty

Image: Samuel Ramos

In the 1980s, when Tom Petty joined the musical supergroup "The Traveling Wilburys," he stood shoulder to shoulder with juggernauts like Bob Dylan, George Harrison, and Roy Orbison. While Petty was relatively a newcomer when he joined what many believe to be the biggest supergroup in history, time would prove that he had what it takes to become one of the most memorable rock stars in history.

According to the man himself, Petty’s love for rock 'n' roll first started when he met Elvis Presley at age 10. This love for music would eventually lead him to form his most iconic band, "Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers," with which he performed for almost 40 years.

6
Jon Bon Jovi

Image: Simon Weisser

It takes talent to make your last name synonymous with rock 'n' roll, but John Francis Bongiovi Jr., better known as Jon Bon Jovi , was able to turn his last name into the name of one of the most groundbreaking bands of the ‘80s.

Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, Jon formed Bon Jovi when he was still in his teens, quickly rising to fame and becoming an undisputed rock star. While he is still very much active in music, he has also built a very successful acting career, appearing in TV shows like Sex and the City and The West Wing .

7
Jim Morrison

Image: Markus Spiske

Take it to the world of rock 'n' roll to produce a nickname like "the Lizard King" to describe one of the most emblematic vocalists of the '70s. Regardless of whether there was someone who could pull off such a strange nickname, it was Jim Morrison . In fact, this singer chose the nickname himself, as it perfectly described both his fascination with reptiles and Native American culture.

Morrison’s deep voice and magnetic persona were among the main reasons behind The Doors' rise to prominence, quickly making them the first American band to achieve eight consecutive Gold LPs. While his life was unfortunately cut short at the age of 27, his songs, poetry, and journals will forever celebrate the Lizard King’s legacy.

8
Prince

Image: DJ Johnson

Prince's first live band was called "The Revolution," and we believe that this is one of the most aptly named bands in history. After all, this Minneapolis-born musician brought forward a revolutionary and fresh take on music, fashion, and art in general. Known for his amazing falsetto voice and flamboyant persona, Prince is considered to this day one of the very best musicians in history.

You would think that such a flashy and daring musician would take a more ostentatious stage name, but Prince Rogers Nelson performed under his first name throughout his entire career. Actually, that’s not entirely true: while in the midst of a contractual dispute, he performed as " The Artist Formerly Known as Prince " for approximately a decade.

9
Steven Tyler

Image: Matt Botsford

Steven Tyler might have the nickname that every rock singer probably covets: known as "the Demon of Screamin’," Aerosmith’s frontman is recognized for his powerful voice and vast vocal range.

Tyler has been at the helm of Aerosmith since its beginning in Boston in the early ‘70s, producing such hits as "Dream On" and "Walk This Way." While the band is currently on hiatus due to Steven injuring his vocal cords, Aerosmith still hopes to return to performing soon.

10
Kurt Cobain

Image: Panos Sakalakis

The '90s introduced the world to a new take on rock music: for many, grunge was the quintessential sound of this decade, characterized by its raw and angry tone. In that sense, there’s no band that represents the '90s better than Nirvana, and this legacy is in no small part due to Kurt Cobain.

Known for his scruffy yet powerful voice, Cobain led this iconic trio since its inception in 1987. While his untimely death deprived the world of his incredible talent, his legacy still lives on in amazing songs like "Smells like Teen Spirit" and "Come as You Are."

Geography Geography 6 min read

NATURAL WONDERS

10 Breathtaking Waterfalls In The U.S. You Should Visit

Image: Jared Erondu

Waterfalls never disappoint. And the United States, with its vast and rich biodiversity, is home to some of the most impressive examples in the world: Niagara Falls, McWay Falls, and Tahquamenon Falls, just to name a few.

From stunning water slides overhanging white sandy beaches to gentle falls on the side of a glacier, here’s a list of 10 of the most dazzling American waterfalls that should be on your travel bucket list. Dive in!

1
Multnomah Falls (Bridal Veil, Oregon)

Image: Karsten Winegeart

Multnomah Falls is, without a doubt, the mother of all the 77 waterfalls that can be found in the gorge of the Columbia River in the state of Oregon. Located 30 miles east of Portland, it is one of the three largest waterfalls in the United States . Multnomah Falls has a staggering drop of 620 feet divided into two sections and is a natural wonderland of breathtaking beauty.

A stone bridge suspended between two cliffs offers the best views. The Benson Bridge, built in 1914, allows you to cross the lower falls and continue along a paved trail to the viewing platform at the top. From this privileged observation point, you’ll be able to appreciate the geology exposed by centuries of flooding. Multnomah Falls is the perfect place for hikers , especially during the autumn months. Its rich natural, cultural, and geological history is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

2
Bridalveil Fall (Yosemite, California)

Image: PeterBowers

Bridalveil Falls is a 617-foot cascade and is one of the most iconic sights in the Yosemite National Park . This famous waterfall drops to the base in spring and early summer with enough water to spray its visitors with a gentle mist. In winter, Bridalveil Falls offers a soft yellow glow.

The Ahwahneechee tribe believed that Bridalveil Falls was home to a vengeful spirit named Pohono who protected the entrance to the valley and that those leaving should not look directly at the waterfall lest they suffer the curse. They also thought inhaling the mist from the waterfall would help them find someone to marry , hence the name it is known today.

3
Nugget Falls (Juneau, Alaska)

Image: Timon Cornelissen

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes, Nugget Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the United States. Although it’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts , the scenery alone provides ample reasons for anyone to visit and explore.

Located at the tail end of Alaska's Mendenhall Glacier, these 377-foot falls are formed from a glacial stream making their way to Mendenhall Lake in the course of a two-tiered plunge. They can be accessed by a gravel road, but they are often visited as part of an excursion to Juneau Shore or Mendenhall Lake. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for some tranquil moment in nature, Nugget Falls is sure to provide a memorable experience .

4
Wailua Falls (Līhuʻe, Hawái)

Image: Zane Persaud

You may recognize these waterfalls from their appearance in the opening credits of the hit TV show "Fantasy Island". Or you may have seen them in promotional materials for Kauai, as Wailua Falls are considered the most amazing waterfalls on this scenic Hawaiian island . It is located 5 miles north of downtown Līhuʻe and although there is no walking trail, it can be easily seen from the road.

The double-flow cascade spans an 80-foot drop, thundering and crashing into a small plunge pool below. A lush jungle wall surrounds Wailua Falls, a magnificent site, especially after heavy rains. If you visit in the morning, you may be greeted by a rainbow as the sunlight hits the mist rising from the waterfall . It's an excellent photo opportunity you don’t want to miss!

5
Tahquamenon Falls (Paradise, Michigan)

Image: Dillon Austin

The astonishing Tahquamenon Falls are divided into two equally impressive sections. You can visit the Upper Falls to witness the 200-foot-wide and 48-foot-high cascades before heading to the Lower Falls, a group of five waterfalls that drop around a freshwater island. This area was first popularized by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s "The Song of Hiawatha", but long before that, it was used as a hunting and fishing site by the Ojibwa natives .

Nowadays, these rust-colored cascades —the result of tannins released from cedar trees upstream— are known to some as "Root Beer Falls." They are located in Tahquamenon Fall State Park, an ideal location for fishing and swimming during the summer. In winter, it becomes a snow-covered paradise for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing . No matter the time of the year, the natural scenery of Tahquamenon is truly a sight to behold!

6
McWay Falls (Big Sur, California)

Image: Jairo Gonzalez

Located on the stunning California coast, McWay Falls is a true hidden gem. With its crystal clear waters cascading directly onto the white sandy beach, this 80-foot waterfall delights all visitors with its unique beauty . If you are planning to visit Big Sur and you're looking for spectacular views, McWay Falls is a must-see!

The history of McWay Falls dates back to the beginning of the 20th century when the area was acquired by the McWay family. Julia Pfeiffer McWay, a woman with an adventurous spirit and a passion for nature, fought all her life to preserve its native ecosystem. In 1983, the site was donated to the State of California and incorporated into Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, named in honor of Julia's generosity.

7
Crabtree Falls (Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina)

Image: Leslie Cross

North Carolina has many natural wonders that can be enjoyed all year round, and Crabtree Falls is no exception. Although it’s not as popular as other waterfalls in the state, it's a site worth visiting, especially during the warmer months . Located just 45 miles north of Asheville, this 70-foot-high cascade is surrounded by an oak and hickory tree forest.

Originally known as Murphy’s Falls, this area was renamed Crabtree Falls by the National Park Service when the Blue Ridge Parkway was constructed in the 1930s. If you are a flower and plant lover, Crabtree Falls is the place to be . In the spring, visitors can find a magnificent array of wildflowers along the trail, and during the summer, ferns fill the forest with rosebay rhododendrons in bloom.

8
Havasu Falls (Supai, Arizona)

Image: Daniel Hernandez

The Grand Canyon attracts more than 5 million tourists every year and is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. But hidden deep in the canyon, on the Havasupai reservation, there is a breathtaking site little known to most tourists: the Havasu Falls . Being in a protected reserve, a special permit is required to visit. If you're lucky enough to get one, the falls can be accessed by helicopter, horse, or mule. Another option is to hike 10 miles there and back, along a beautiful path of red rocks and ancient pictographs.

Havasu Falls is known for having a fantastic turquoise color due to the high levels of calcium carbonate present in the spring-fed waters of Havasu Creek, the main source of the waterfalls. These high levels also create the 70-degree travertine pools at the top, making them the perfect swimming spot!

9
Palouse Falls (LaCrosse, Washington)

Image: Dave Hoefler

The unexpected beauty of Palouse Falls dominates eastern Washington, attracting thousands of visitors each year to experience the 200-foot drop from a stunning rocky outcrop into a swirling blue pool. The falls are surrounded by striking cliffs and can be seen from several vantage points throughout the State Park, including the trail that hugs the canyon's rim.

Palouse Falls is the result of the last Ice Age , the product of several glacial floods known as the Missoula Floods that swept across the region, creating the unique landscape that amazes us today. If you are feeling adventurous, just pack a tent and prepare to catch one of the best sunset views the country has to offer!

10
Niagara Falls (New York)

Image: Ivan Torres

Last, but certainly not least, Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful sights in the United States and a unique destination that attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. With a width of more than 3,000 feet and a drop of 160 ft, these three magnificent falls —two American and one Canadian— are located 400 miles from New York City. Approximately 600,000 gallons of water flow over the falls every second and the average depth underneath is 170 ft.

Named by the Iroquois tribe, the word Niagara means "thunder of water" . Since its discovery by European settlers in the 17th century, Niagara Falls has become very popular, not only for their beauty but also as a source of energy. Niagara Falls is a marvelous spectacle that will remain in the memory of all those who have the chance to explore it . There’s no doubt about it, everyone should visit Niagara Falls at least once in their lifetime!

General General 4 min read

Beloved products that vanished from stores

Ten discontinued American products we still miss today

Image: Natasha Connell

Remember when you could walk into any store and find your favorite snack, only to have it vanish without a trace years later? Some discontinued products become legends, living on in our memories and late-night conversations about "the good old days." Here are ten discontinued products that still make us nostalgic, and honestly, a little hungry for the past.

1
Hydrox Cookies

Image: Conor Brown

Introduced in 1908, these chocolate sandwich cookies with cream filling were the original, while Oreos followed four years later in 1912 . Hydrox had a crunchier cookie and a less sweet filling, which devoted fans absolutely loved.

Hydrox disappeared from shelves in 2003, leaving longtime fans heartbroken and insisting that they were superior to their more famous competitor. The cookie made a brief comeback in 2015 under new ownership, but it never quite recaptured its former glory or widespread availability.

2
Squeezit

Image: Haley Owens

Squeezit arrived on the scene in 1985 with its unique bottle design that you literally had to squeeze to drink from—no straw needed! The bottles came in wild colors and flavors like Chucklin' Cherry and Grumpy Grape, each with its own cartoon character printed on the label.

General Mills discontinued Squeezit in 2001, crushing the dreams of millennials everywhere who had fond memories of squeezing these bottles a little too hard and squirting juice everywhere.

3
Jell-O Pudding Pops

Image: sheri silver

Bill Cosby might have made these famous in commercials, but it was the frozen treat itself that made Pudding Pops legendary in the 1980s. Introduced in 1979, these weren't your typical popsicles— they had a creamy, mousse-like texture that was somewhere between pudding and ice cream.

Jell-O discontinued the original Pudding Pops in the early 1990s, and despite several attempted comebacks with different formulations, they've never tasted quite the same as the originals. People who remember the real deal insist that the modern versions just don't have that same creamy texture or rich flavor.

4
Crystal Pepsi

Image: Giorgio Trovato

Launched in 1992, this clear cola was supposed to represent "purity" and tap into the clear product craze of the era . It tasted almost exactly like regular Pepsi, which created a weird cognitive dissonance: your brain expected lemon-lime, but your taste buds got cola. Crystal Pepsi flopped hard and disappeared by 1994, but it achieved cult status among nostalgic millennials and Gen Xers.

5
Bonkers! Candy

Image: Edgar Chaparro

"Bonkers bonks you out!" went the commercial jingle, and this chewy fruit candy certainly made an impact when it hit stores in the early 1980s. Each piece was wrapped individually and packed an intensely fruity flavor that was almost overwhelming—in a good way . Bonkers came in flavors like grape, strawberry, and watermelon, and they had a unique texture that was chewier than Starburst but softer than taffy.

Nabisco stopped making Bonkers in the 1990s, and fruit candy lovers have been mourning ever since. There were brief periods when the candy reappeared under different ownership, but it never achieved the same widespread distribution.

6
Dunkaroos

Image: RUMEYSA AYDIN

Introduced by Betty Crocker in 1990, these snack packs came with small kangaroo-shaped cookies and a container of frosting for dipping. The concept was simple but brilliant—make cookies even more fun by turning them into an interactive snack. Flavors included chocolate chip cookies with vanilla frosting, vanilla cookies with chocolate frosting, and the ultimate combo of chocolate cookies with chocolate frosting.

General Mills discontinued Dunkaroos in the United States in 2012, sparking outrage among millennials who considered them a sacred part of their childhood. The good news? After years of petitions and social media campaigns, Dunkaroos made a triumphant return in 2020.

7
Clearly Canadian

Image: 소녀

Before sparkling water became trendy, there was Clearly Canadian— a flavored sparkling water that came in distinctive teardrop-shaped glass bottles . Launched in 1987, this Canadian import became hugely popular in the U.S. throughout the late 80s and 90s. The flavors had fancy names like Wild Cherry, Country Raspberry, and Orchard Peach, and the carbonation was more aggressive than today's LaCroix.

Clearly Canadian largely disappeared from American stores in the 2000s as other beverages dominated the market, though the company never completely shut down. Thanks to a Kickstarter campaign in 2015, it made a comeback, but it's still not as widely available as it once was.

8
P.B. Crisps

Image: Olga Nayda

Planters gave us the ultimate peanut butter snack in 1992 with P.B. Crisps— crispy shell-shaped cookies filled with peanut butter . These weren't ordinary peanut butter cookies; they had a unique, crispy texture on the outside and creamy peanut butter on the inside, creating a perfect contrast.

Sadly, P.B. Crisps were discontinued in 1995 after just three years on the market, leaving peanut butter lovers devastated. No snack has quite filled that void—Nutter Butters are too cookie-like, and peanut butter crackers are too cracker-like.

9
Altoids Sours

Image: Customerbox

These tiny, tangy candies came in flavors like Tangerine, Citrus, and Raspberry, and they packed a seriously sour punch that made your whole face scrunch up . They came in the same iconic tin as regular Altoids, which made them feel substantial and collectible.

Altoids discontinued the Sours in 2010, and fans have been petitioning for their return ever since. There have been multiple online petitions, Facebook groups, and even people hoarding old tins as collectors' items.

10
Snapple Elements

Image: Snappr

Launched in 1999, these drinks came in wide-mouthed glass bottles and had more exotic flavors than typical Snapple offerings . Rain was agave cactus, Sun was starfruit, and Fire was dragonfruit. The bottles themselves were beautiful, with distinctive designs and colors that made them stand out on store shelves.

The Elements line was discontinued in the early 2000s, though Snapple brought back a reformulated version in 2008 that wasn't quite the same. The original Elements had a devoted following who appreciated the more complex flavors and the beautiful bottle design.

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