Quality ingredients are part of what makes these fast food frozen treats so good. You’ll find wholesome add-ins, hand-spun shakes, and fresh frozen custard.
Mashed – Fast Food, Celebrity Chefs, Grocery, Reviews
Day: April 28, 2026
Reading Time: 2 minutes
We have tragic news to report from the world of music.
Cleetis Mack — the pioneering hip hop artist best known for his work with Digital Underground — has passed away.
News of Mack’s death comes courtesy of a statement issued by representatives of his former group:
The reps tell TMZ that the loss of Mack “leaves a void in our Digital Underground family and in our hearts that can never truly be filled.”
The statement notes that Mack was “more than a part of the movement — he was part of the soul behind it, bringing warmth, loyalty, and quiet strength to everyone around him.
“He will always be remembered by his humility, love, and spirited energy, qualities that lifted those around him and made a lasting impression on all who knew him.”
Digital Underground was founded in 1987 by original members Shock G (Gregory Jacobs), Chopmaster J (Jimi Dright), and Kenny-K (Kenneth Waters).
Mack joined the group in 1993, first performing on the single “Wussup Wit the Luv,” which also featured a young Tupac Shakur.
Though Digital Underground was best known for their 1990 hit “The Humpty Dance,” Mack had not yet joined the group at that juncture.
But it’s a testament to his immense talent that he was recruited for membership after DU had achieved international fame.
Within minutes of the news of his passing, Mack’s name became a trending topic across social media platforms, as friends and fans paid tribute.
Mack’s cause of death and his age at the time of his passing are both unclear at this time.
We will have further updates on this developing story as new information becomes available.
Our thoughts go out to Cleetis Mack’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Cleetis Mack Cause of Death: Digital Underground Rapper, Early Tupac Collaborator Passes … was originally published on The Hollywood Gossip.
The Hollywood Gossip
Ever give a raspberry a closer look and wonder why they’re so hairy? These little fruits are actually covered in two kinds of hair. Here’s what they do!
Mashed – Fast Food, Celebrity Chefs, Grocery, Reviews
Some may say country music is best enjoyed from big stages with packed festival crowds, but those who’ve experienced Backstage Access Presents could argue that there’s something special about hearing it in the heart of Napa Valley, surrounded by stunning vineyards, good wine, and an intimate crowd.
Held April 14–16, the inaugural three-day destination event brought this setting to life, thanks to the vision of seasoned music industry executive and experiential strategist, Bobbii Jacobs, who has spent more than three decades building connections across every corner of the music industry.
With this latest venture, a hand-selected guest list of artists, media, brands, and industry leaders came together to enjoy live music, shared meals, and relaxed moments with views beyond compare. This space naturally resulted in meaningful conversations and sparked creative connections throughout a carefully curated string of experiences.
The week kicked off at Sleeping Giant in Napa with a Music Industry Luncheon featuring acoustic performances from Bradley Gaskin, Allie Colleen, Cyndi Thomson, and more, setting the tone for what was to come. As guests enjoyed their family-style meal, each of the acts took turns showcasing new music and sharing meaningful stories behind their work.
Speaking to Country Now before sitting down with his guitar in hand, Bradley Gaskin shared his appreciation for being included in the event, noting how meaningful opportunities like this are for him as an artist working hard each day to achieve his dreams.
“Me being a singer-songwriter from small town Alabama, anytime somebody reaches out…The whole goal as a kid growing up being a songwriter and an artist is to go out and play and perform for people. And so being invited and being part of such a cool thing is right up my alley,” he explained.
From there, guests headed over to Round Pond Estate Winery for a Golden Hour Reception, to enjoy a new scenery along with estate wines, regional bites from Hook & Cleaver Ranch and performances from Alex Lambert, Thelma & James, Liam St. John, and The 502s. Just as the sun set over the open fields surrounded by vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see, each artist took the stage one by one in the rustic barn venue, delivering stripped-down performances that paired perfectly with the golden-hour backdrop.
As guests enjoyed the music, they also made the rounds to explore the delicious eats, take advantage of the photo ops and shop a curated selection of brand partners.
Husband and wife duo, Thelma & James, revealed they are no strangers to the beautiful Napa Valley area and were eager to return, this time as part of the Backstage Access Presents lineup. Sitting in front of the crowd, they delivered a more intimate rendition of songs in their catalog including their latest, “Alternate Ending.”
“We had some of our favorite people writing with us that day and it kind of just fell out of the sky for us. It was like one of those magic writes,” the duo’s Jake Etheridge shared of the track.
His wife and duo partner, MacKenzie Porter, added, “We didn’t have the title or the idea or anything. We just were working on something else and then it kind of shifted into that song and we turned it in and our team really loves it. And I think people have been enjoying it.”
Later on, music echoed through the space of the private industry dinner at Louis Martini. The underground cellar, lined with towering barrels, featured a long communal table stretching the length of the room, with an intimate stage set at the very front.
One of the night’s performers, Jake Hoot proudly showcased stories ranging from love songs to a letter to the state of Colorado and more. He took in everything the space had to offer noting, “Stepping down in that cellar and doing our soundcheck, it just felt like those halls were made for music.”
When day two came around, artists including Kruse Brothers, Julia Cole, Emily Ann Roberts, Matt Stell, and Ty Myers took part in the “Pickin’ & Playin’” luncheon at Regusci Winery.
Roberts, who was a first-time visitor to Napa Valley, said the simplicity of singing with just her and her guitar was a nice change of pace compared to her usual full-band shows because it reminded her of the early days of performing.
“I started playing shows just with me and my guitar, sitting on a stool for tips, anywhere where they would let me come and play. And so anytime I get to get back to the basics, I think it’s really special. And in this environment, you don’t really need all that much to have a special moment. Just a simple guitar and a vocal will do the trick.”
Each delivering their sets in between hitting the golf course, Ty Myers and Matt Stell reflected on the experience, highlighting the mix of great food, wine, and connection.
“Had some great meals, some great wine, great fellowships, people that I’ve met because I’ve been out here before a time or two and get to see people that I consider friends and then make some new ones. And then we got to play some music the last couple nights,” Stell shared.
Myers added, “Destination spots to play music and are never going to let you down.”
The day continued with a wine tasting experience at Mark Herold Winery. As guests sipped on wine and enjoyed light bites, Cooper Riley, Sacha, Brett Kissel, and FILMORE all took the mic. Riley put it perfectly when he said, “There’s no better place than wine country. I mean it’s just beautiful. Beautiful scenery and great wine, great food. Really it doesn’t get much better than that.”
The live music continued into the night with Mainstage at the Mansion Gardens showcasing a mix of rising acts like Kalsey Kulyk, Madden Metcalf and Jacob Hackworth as well as hitmaker Parker McCollum.
Metcalf was eager to introduce Backstage Access Presents attendees to “all the songs that really described me as a person” from his debut EP, Saltwater Southern. Meanwhile, Hackworth did not hold back in expressing his excitement over stepping into a new setting with a fresh set of hears on songs like his radio debut, “What Took You So Long.”
“It’s a bunch of new faces, new people, and I’m excited for them to get to hear my music. I love concerts from the perspective of a listener to being able to perform them, and I think it’s always amazing. So I’m excited.,” Hackworth shared.
Parker McCollum gave the listeners a chance to really get to know him as he cracked jokes, interacted with individual audience members and even showcased a few brand-new unreleased songs, alongside his fan-favorites such as “Big Ole Fancy House.”
The final morning took place at Pahlmeyer with a vineyard brunch featuring acoustic performances that spanned beyond country music and tapped into true artistry from Tom Siletto, Kasey Tyndall, Maggie Rose, Shinedown, and Grace Potter. Prior to these performances, Hannah Dasher brought her fun-loving energy to the stage where she did a live cooking demonstration for her delicious blueberry biscuit recipe pulled straight from her Stand By Your Pan cook book.
“Since I balance the fender and the frying pan, I’m getting to do both,” she said previewing the event, before adding that she was “tickled” to be a part of the week.
A select group stuck around for the final event, Wine, Women & Song at Whetstone Wine Cellars, closing out the first-ever Backstage Access Presents experience in Napa Valley. The intimate afternoon was filled with even more wine and a real sense of women supporting women, as the artists shared personal stories through song.
By the time the last glass was poured, it was clear Backstage Access Presents had delivered on its promise to show that country music feels just as powerful, if not more, in a quieter setting surrounded by true music lovers with a shared openness to learn, connect, and grow.
The post Backstage Access Presents Turns Napa Valley Into an Intimate Country Music Escape appeared first on Country Now.
Country Now
NOTN- The City and Borough of Juneau Assembly will hold a public hearing tomorrow on its proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, including property taxes, school funding, a multi-year capital improvement plan, Eaglecrest and the Gondola Project.
The special Assembly meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. and it will be followed by the Assembly Finance Committee. Residents may testify in person or via Zoom.
At the hearing, Assembly members will take testimony on several key ordinances, including a measure setting the 2026 property tax rate to fund the FY27 budget.
According to the agenda, officials will also consider a $551.2 million operating budget for city and borough services, along with a separate $97.2 million budget for the Juneau School District.
In addition, the Assembly will review a resolution adopting the city’s capital improvement program for fiscal years 2027 through 2032, which outlines infrastructure priorities and planned project spending.
Another resolution would set aside up to $2.3 million from the city’s restricted budget reserve to cover an anticipated operating deficit at Eaglecrest Ski Area.
Separately, the Assembly is expected to introduce an ordinance to begin terminating a revenue-sharing agreement with Goldbelt Inc. tied to the proposed gondola project at Eaglecrest. City officials say the project is no longer financially feasible after cost estimates rose to more than $37 million, up from initial projections of about $10 million.
This is still up in the air, but under this agreement Juneau would be required to repay Goldbelt’s $10 million investment plus interest if the deal is terminated. Repayment would include general funds and previously allocated project money.
Luke Combs continues his latest success streak, fueled by his new music and his My Kinda Saturday Night Tour.
According to a press release, Combs is adding to his history-making run by becoming the first artist ever to land two different solo songs at No. 1 on the Billboard and Mediabase country radio charts at the same time. The milestone comes as “Sleepless in a Hotel Room” holds the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart for a third consecutive week, while “Days Like These” earns him his 21st straight No. 1 on the Mediabase Country Aircheck chart. This extends his own record for the most consecutive No. 1s to start a career.
Additionally, “Days Like These” is also currently No. 2 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart, giving Combs the distinction of being the first artist to hold the top two spots at the same time, and the first to achieve the feat twice, following “Fast Car” and “Love You Anyway” reaching Nos. 1 and 2 together in 2023.
Both “Sleepless in a Hotel Room” and “Days Like These” appear on Combs’ latest album, The Way I Am, which arrived earlier this spring. The project debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart and No. 2 on the all-genre Billboard 200, earning 100,700 equivalent album units in its first week.
On the touring side, Combs’ My Kinda Saturday Night Tour continues to break records, with each stop setting new attendance highs. Most recently, he made history at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, drawing 97,367 fans for the largest show of his career to date. He’s also brought massive crowds to Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium, Charlottesville’s Scott Stadium, Ames’ Jack Trice Stadium, and South Bend’s Notre Dame Stadium.
The tour is scheduled to hit The University of Tennessee’s Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee on Saturday, May 2 and run through August 2 with a run of shows at Wembley Stadium in London.
Combs was recently honored with a TIME100 cover story that included a tribute by Ed Sheeran. He is also nominated for three awards at the 2026 ACM Awards: Entertainer of the Year, Male Artist of the Year and Artist-Songwriter of the Year.
Luke Combs Confirmed Tour Dates
May 2—Knoxville, TN—Neyland Stadium*
May 9—Norman, OK—Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium*
May 15—Green Bay, WI—Lambeau Field*
May 16—Green Bay, WI—Lambeau Field* (SOLD OUT)
May 29—Montreal, Quebec—Parc Jean-Drapeau*
May 30—Montreal, Quebec—Parc Jean-Drapeau* (SOLD OUT)
June 5—Toronto, Ontario—Rogers Stadium*
June 6—Toronto, Ontario—Rogers Stadium* (SOLD OUT)
July 4—Gothenburg, Sweden—Ullevi‡ (LOW TICKETS)
July 7—Paris, France—Accor Arena§ (LOW TICKETS)
July 11—Amsterdam, Netherlands—Johan Cruijff ArenA‡ (SOLD OUT)
July 18—Ireland—Slane Castle‡ (SOLD OUT)
July 19—Ireland—Slane Castle‡ (SOLD OUT)
July 24—Edinburgh, U.K.—Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium+
July 25—Edinburgh, U.K.—Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium+ (SOLD OUT)
July 31—London, U.K.—Wembley Stadium# (SOLD OUT)
August 1—London, U.K.—Wembley Stadium# (SOLD OUT)
August 2—London, U.K.—Wembley Stadium#
*with special guests Dierks Bentley, Ty Myers, Jake Worthington and Thelma & James
‡with special guests The Script, Ty Myers and The Castellows
§with special guests Ty Myers and The Castellows
+with special guests The Teskey Brothers, Ty Myers and The Castellows #with special guests Thomas Rhett, Ty Myers and The Castellows
The post Luke Combs’ My Kinda Saturday Night Tour Breaks Attendance Records While He Continues To Dominate Country Radio appeared first on Country Now.
Country Now
Carly Pearce’s quippy ‘You Can Have Him’ is a cheating song, but don’t expect any tears. Continue reading…Country Music News – Taste of Country
Pralines are a sweet New Orleans staple, and these shops are doing the Crescent City proud with their excellent versions of this classic confection.
Food Republic – Restaurants, Reviews, Recipes, Cooking Tips
Musgraves is making good on a gig offer she extended after The Mariachi Brothers were released from ICE custody last month. Continue reading…The Boot – Country Music News, Music Videos and Songs
Musgraves is making good on a gig offer she extended after The Mariachi Brothers were released from ICE custody last month. Continue reading…Country Music News – Taste of Country