More than two decades after their original hit, Brandy and Monica are once again in the spotlight. The R&B legends collaborated with Ariana Grande on a remix of “The Boy Is Mine,” which is now nominated for a Grammy. This new version, featured on Grande’s Eternal Sunshine album, has brought the artists together, rekindling their friendship and reigniting the magic of their iconic 1998 duet. Both singers reflect on the experience, sharing how it felt to reconnect and create something fresh while honoring the past. They also express their excitement about potentially earning another Grammy for a song that has stood the test of time.
A New Chapter in Music History
The collaboration between Brandy, Monica, and Ariana Grande represents a significant moment in music history. Over 26 years after their initial hit, the R&B superstars have come together once more, this time with a pop icon, to reimagine a classic. The remix, nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, showcases the enduring appeal of “The Boy Is Mine” across generations. For both Brandy and Monica, the experience was not just about music but also about reconnecting as friends and reflecting on their careers.
Monica describes the reunion as a blessing, noting that it allowed her and Brandy to catch up on life beyond just the song. “It gave us the opportunity to talk about everything,” she says. Brandy echoes this sentiment, adding that working with Grande transported them back to a pivotal time in their careers. The process was collaborative, with Grande actively involved in ensuring the new version felt both innovative and respectful to the original. “Ariana made sure her gratitude was felt, which meant a lot to me,” Monica explains. The result is a track that feels fresh yet nostalgic, perfectly blending the old with the new.
Reflections on Success and Future Collaborations
Both artists express immense gratitude for the recognition their work continues to receive. When the nominations were announced, Monica learned from her children, celebrating the moment with them. For Brandy, the nomination brings back memories of their first Grammy win in 1999. “To reignite the creation in a new way and still have it honored is such a blessing,” she reflects. Despite the excitement, both emphasize that being nominated is an honor in itself, especially given the lasting impact of their original song.
The success of the remix has sparked interest in potential future collaborations. Monica and Brandy are open to creating more music together, acknowledging the magic that happens when they team up. “Absolutely,” Monica declares, while Brandy adds, “Who knows what could be in store for us?” The possibility of another duet excites fans who have followed their careers since the late '90s. With a renewed sense of creativity and camaraderie, the future looks bright for these R&B icons.
In a surprising move, the tech giant Google has announced plans to update its mapping service, reflecting changes mandated by recent executive orders. The alterations include renaming significant geographical features, which has sparked considerable controversy both within and outside the United States. This decision, made in response to directives from President Donald Trump, aims to reflect a new perspective on these locations. Critics argue that this shift undermines historical context and international consensus. The implications of these changes extend beyond mere cartography, touching on issues of national identity and global recognition.
Redefining Geographical Names: A Closer Look
In the twilight hours of a recent Monday, Google Maps unveiled an impending update that will alter how one of the world's largest bodies of water is labeled. The Gulf of Mexico, a vast expanse known for its rich history and ecological significance, will now be referred to as the "Gulf of America." This change follows an executive order issued by President Donald Trump on his first day in office, asserting that the gulf played a crucial role in shaping America’s future and global economic influence. The decision was met with widespread criticism, not only domestically but also internationally.
The city of Panama City Beach, situated along the coast of this expansive water body, stands as a testament to the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Despite the official stance, many residents and visitors continue to refer to it by its original name. In response to the executive order, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reassured her people that Mexico would adhere to its traditional naming conventions. “For us, it remains the Gulf of Mexico, and for the entire world, it remains the Gulf of Mexico,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical names.
Additionally, another notable geographical feature, Mount Denali in Alaska, will revert to its former name, Mount McKinley. This mountain, the tallest in North America, has been a point of contention for decades. The name change between Denali, honoring the indigenous population, and McKinley, named after a former U.S. president, reflects deeper debates about cultural identity and historical recognition. The Obama administration had previously changed the name to Denali in 2015, but the latest executive order reverts this decision.
From a journalist's perspective, these changes highlight the ongoing tension between political mandates and cultural heritage. They underscore the importance of preserving historical context and respecting diverse viewpoints. While maps may seem like neutral tools, they carry profound meanings and can shape how we understand our world. The debate surrounding these changes serves as a reminder of the power of language and naming in shaping collective memory and identity.
Prime Video is set to release a new drama series that delves into the romantic journey of King Harald and Queen Sonja of Norway. Titled "Harald and Sonja," this production will explore their nine-year struggle against societal and royal expectations, culminating in a union that has lasted over five decades. The series promises to highlight the challenges faced by the couple as they navigated through the rigid norms of the Norwegian monarchy, ultimately leading to their marriage in 1968. Through dramatic reenactments, audiences will witness the intense pressure exerted by King Olav, Harald's father, who insisted on a royal match for his son. Despite these obstacles, Harald and Sonja's love triumphed, making their story a timeless tale of perseverance and devotion.
The narrative unfolds in post-war Norway, where tradition and modernity often clashed. Crown Prince Harald, then a cadet at the Norwegian Military Academy, met Sonja Haraldsen, a student at the University of Oslo, at a dinner party in 1959. Their immediate connection was undeniable, but the path forward was fraught with difficulties. King Olav staunchly opposed the relationship, demanding that Harald marry a woman of royal lineage. This stance created significant tension, particularly as Sonja, being the daughter of a merchant, did not fit the traditional mold expected of a future queen. The media began to speculate about the couple’s relationship, and public opinion was divided. The Norwegian Prime Minister, Einar Gerhardsen, even warned that such a union could lead to a constitutional crisis, further complicating matters.
Throughout the years, Harald and Sonja endured numerous trials. They experienced periods of separation and uncertainty, yet their bond remained unbroken. In 1965, Harald made a pivotal decision: he issued an ultimatum to his father, stating that he would either marry Sonja or remain single for life. This bold move eventually led to a breakthrough. By 1968, King Olav relented, giving his blessing to the marriage. On August 29 of that year, Harald and Sonja exchanged vows in Oslo Cathedral, surrounded by 850 guests. A poignant moment occurred when King Olav escorted Sonja down the aisle, symbolizing his acceptance and support.
Since ascending to the throne in 1991, King Harald and Queen Sonja have continued to serve Norway with dedication. Their reign has spanned over three decades, marked by resilience and commitment. Despite facing health challenges in recent years, both monarchs have expressed no intention of abdicating. The upcoming series, set to premiere on Valentine’s Day, offers viewers an intimate look into one of the most enduring love stories in royal history, celebrating the power of love that transcends societal boundaries.