10 Things You Need to Know Today

1. Ellen and Portia Have Left the Building

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are trading Hollywood glitz for rural charm. The couple has relocated to the English countryside and, according to reports, plan never to return to the United States.

2. Gaetz Bows Out

Former Rep. Matt Gaetz has officially withdrawn from consideration for Attorney General under President-elect Donald Trump, leaving many to speculate on what’s next for the controversial politician.

3. $1 Homes in Italy? Yes, Please!

Upset about the last election? The picturesque town of Ollolai, Italy, has your escape plan ready. With homes priced as low as $1, they’ve even set up a special website to welcome new residents.

4. Trump’s Guitars Are Here

President-elect Trump has launched a line of electric and acoustic guitars. The “Limited Edition '45' Guitar” is decked out with an American flag and eagle motif, with “Make America Great Again” inlaid on the neck. Prices range from $1,250 to $10,000, depending on your preferred level of presidential pizzazz.

5. Hurricane Helene = Christmas Tree Shortage

Hurricane Helene left devastation in its wake, and now the southeast is facing another consequence: a Christmas tree shortage just in time for the holidays.

6. Florida Man’s Stock Exchange Plot

Harun Abdul-Malik Yener, a Florida man, has been charged in a scheme to bomb the New York Stock Exchange. Documents reveal he collaborated with FBI informants to plan the attack, describing the exchange as a symbolic target.

7. Elton John’s Musical Fizzles

Elton John’s Tammy Faye, a multi-million-dollar musical, has announced its closing just five days after its premiere. A short-lived but memorable moment in theater history.

8. Democrats’ 2028 Presidential Picks

Looking ahead, Democrats have their sights set on Kamala Harris for the 2028 presidential race, followed by California Governor Gavin Newsom and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.

9. Jessica Simpson Heartbroken

Jessica Simpson has confirmed her separation from Eric Johnson after 10 years of marriage, expressing heartbreak over the split.

10. Pepsi Gingerbread Soda: Yay or Nay?

Pepsi is ringing in the holiday season with a new flavor—Gingerbread Soda. Whether it’s a festive treat or a fizzy flop is up for debate.

Quick Bites:

• Mark Zuckerberg’s jet reportedly burned through 7,254 gallons of jet fuel in just two days, releasing 70 tons of CO2 during frequent trips between California and Hawaii.

• Iceland’s capital experienced its seventh volcanic eruption since December.

• Guinness World Records Day saw the World’s Tallest Woman have tea with the World’s Shortest Woman in London.

Music News: Country Legends, Rising Stars, and Rock Royalty

George Strait Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award

The "King of Country" George Strait received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s Country Music Awards in Nashville. Artists like Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, Chris Stapleton, and Parker McCollum celebrated his legacy with a tribute performance of "Troubadour," earning Strait a standing ovation. In his acceptance speech, Strait humorously praised the performers for their takes on his classics, quipping he was glad he recorded them first. Joining past honorees like Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash, George’s reign continues!

Kacey Musgraves Delivers a Stunning CMA Performance

Kacey Musgraves moved the CMA crowd with “The Architect,” a track inspired by the emotional aftermath of the Covenant School shooting. Featured on her album Deeper Well, which was nominated for Album of the Year, Musgraves described the song as a reflection of life’s dualities—beauty amid tragedy. While the album didn’t take home the prize, Musgraves’ heartfelt performance was a highlight of the night.

Rod Stewart Announces the End of Large-Scale Tours

At 79, Sir Rod Stewart is bidding farewell to global tours but assures fans he’s not retiring. The music legend plans to focus on more intimate performances, hinting at a potential Swing Fever tour featuring songs from the Great American Songbook. With a U.S. tour scheduled for 2025 and a run of Las Vegas shows, Stewart’s passion for the stage remains undiminished.

Jelly Roll Showcases 120-Pound Weight Loss at CMAs

Country star Jelly Roll, known for hits like “Son of a Sinner,” made headlines at the CMAs not just for his music but also for his inspiring health transformation. The singer arrived with wife Bunnie XO and his daughter Bailee Ann, celebrating a 120-pound weight loss thanks to a high-protein diet and active lifestyle. On stage and off, Jelly Roll is living his best life!

Miley Cyrus Teases Trippy, Glamorous Visual Album

Miley Cyrus is crafting a psychedelic visual album inspired by Pink Floyd’s The Wall—with a glamorous twist. Her upcoming project, Something Beautiful, explores themes of healing and beauty in life’s darkest moments. Drawing from her love of films like Mandy, Cyrus aims to make music that resonates at a deeper, emotional frequency. Expect hypnotic visuals and plenty of bold artistry when it drops!

Zach Bryan Skips CMAs Amid Personal Drama

Zach Bryan’s absence from the CMAs raised eyebrows, especially since his duet with Kacey Musgraves was nominated for Musical Event of the Year. Instead, the singer spent a quiet evening with his dog, Jack Daniels. Meanwhile, his public split from influencer Brianna LaPaglia continues to stir conversation, with the pair embroiled in a custody debate over their shared pet cat, Stump. Despite the drama, Bryan is staying focused on his music.

That’s it for this week’s music roundup! From legendary honors to transformative journeys, the world of music continues to inspire and amaze. Whether you're tuning into the classics, diving into new releases, or following the latest industry stories, there’s always something to celebrate in the world of sound.

Thank you for being part of our music-loving community. Your passion keeps the beat alive, and we’re honored to bring you the news that matters most to you. Until next time, keep rocking, keep listening, and keep sharing the music that moves you.

Stay loud, stay proud,
The Rock King Team