1

Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns N’ Roses

Image: Kyle Buss

Fans of Guns N’ Roses will tell you how fast "Sweet Child O’ Mine" was written. In under an hour, the band developed the accompaniment for a melody one of them had come up with—a hand-warming riff that guitarist Slash was playfully improvising. That same riff, by-now famous guitar melody, opens the song.

Hearing the result, Axl Rose wrote lyrics inspired by his then-girlfriend, Erin Everly, whose smile, it seemed to him, reminded him of childhood memories. Remarkably, he completed the poem in a single day. Later, while recording in the studio, the band made another on-the-spot call: they decided to include a sung line that Axl Rose had been repeating while searching for an ending to the song, "Where do we go now?"

2

Billie Jean - Michael Jackson

Image: Call Me Fred

Michael Jackson didn’t shy away from saying that he always knew "Billie Jean" was going to be a hit. While writing it, he was aware that he had hit material in his hands, and he worked on it accordingly. Thanks to his rigorous daily vocal training during the production of Thriller , Jackson recorded the main vocal in a single take. The song was mixed 91 times , while he and producer Quincy Jones strived for perfection. In the end, they settled on mix number two—the version we know today.

But here is the most impressive anecdote behind "Billie Jean." Jackson was driving his Rolls-Royce between recording sessions, obsessed with finding the best ideas for his song. He was so absorbed that he didn’t notice the underside of his car had caught fire —until a passing biker alerted him.

3

You Give Love a Bad Name - Bon Jovi

Image: Benjamin Farren

Can you imagine the iconic opening vocals of "You Give Love a Bad Name" belted out by any other voice than Jon Bon Jovi’s? A female voice, perhaps? Surprisingly, the melody was originally written by hitmaker Desmond Child for Bonnie Tyler . Her version, titled "If You Were a Woman (And I Was a Man)," featured different lyrics, and was released earlier that same year in 1986.

Dissatisfied with the final result of Tyler’s song, Child decided to take the same seed of an anthem and team up with Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora to rework it. The result was a powerhouse anthem that propelled Bon Jovi to the top of the charts. It also marked a radical change in the band’s career, which veered from then on to a more radio-friendly, arena-rock sound that would define their style.

4

Don’t Stop Believin’ - Journey

Image: Kristina Chuprina

If you strip this '80s rock anthem of its drums, bass, guitar, and even its melody, you’re left with a simple yet powerful plea: "Don’t stop believing." Those words have a heartfelt origin. When Jonathan Cain was invited to join Journey, he started working on a song, first deciding that he was going to name it after the words his father would repeat to him over the phone while he was still a struggling musician in L.A.: "Don’t stop believing or you are done , dude."

Cain wrote the emotional chorus first before sharing the project with the band to complete it together. That’s why it’s said that the song was written "backward ." The arrangements were carefully crafted to build up to the climactic final chorus. If you pay attention, this one doesn’t appear until near the end of the song—a structure that sets it apart.

5

We Didn't Start the Fire - Billy Joel

Image: David Clode

119 significant events are mentioned in the famous 1989 song by "Piano Man" Billy Joel. A rapid-fire history lesson, covering science, sports, music, politics, cultural icons, movies, and so many more, is uttered to assemble an image of the 40 years the artist had lived until then—from 1949 to 1989. The story of how he stumbled upon the idea for this musical whirlwind is just as fascinating.

Legend has it that Joel was in the studio one day when Sean Lennon, John Lennon’s son , visited with a young friend. The 20-year-old started complaining about the hardships of growing up in the ‘80s, and Joel replied that the ‘60s weren’t exactly easy either. This sparked a discussion where each mentioned world-relevant events they had lived through. Inspired, Joel jotted down the events and began piecing them together, eventually crafting the iconic song.

6

I Will Always Love You - Dolly Parton

Image: Wes McFee

"I Will Always Love You," immortalized by Whitney Houston ’s rendition for The Bodyguard (1992), was actually written 18 years earlier by Dolly Parton. Although it became a romantic power ballad in the voice of Houston, the original version hadn’t been written with romance or heartbreak in mind—it was a heartfelt farewell.

In 1972, after having become a performing regular in The Porter Wagoner Show , Dolly Parton decided it was time to leave and pursue her own path. Her deep appreciation for Wagoner and her love for her colleague drove her to write a sweet, sincere song to express her feelings. Explaining that, despite needing to move on, and regardless of where life took her, she would always love him. Touched by the song, Wagoner loved it and asked to produce it himself.

7

Maniac - Michael Sembello

Image: David Monje

"Maniac," made famous for its inclusion in the Flashdance (1983) soundtrack, is another example of a song that started with a very different theme. Its original name was still "Maniac," yes. But it wasn’t originally about a passionate dancer—it was about a serial killer.

Dennis Matkosky, the song’s author, had seen in the news a story about a psychotic criminal and conjured in his mind a song that warned of his deeds . Together with his friend Michael Sembello, they finished that version for their own amusement. The demo ended up being one of the songs used in the set of Flashdance for being upbeat, catchy, and danceable. Director Adrian Lyne grew so fond of it that he asked Matkosky and Sembello to rewrite the lyrics to better suit the film. The reworked song became a global hit, reaching the top 10 of pop charts in multiple countries that year.

8

Shout - The Isley Brothers

Image: Brett Sayles

If hearing the song "Shout" by The Isley Brothers makes you think of a festive event where a band interacts with a dancing audience, it means the song retained its original spirit. The iconic phrase "Jump up and shout now" was part of a series of playful instructions the band improvised during a live performance. At the time, they were covering "Lonely Teardrops," a Jackie Wilson hit, and went off on a tangent building on the climax of that song.

The band began shouting ad-libbed lines , encouraging the crowd to participate. That responsorial dynamic became the foundation of "Shout," and evolved further through subsequent performances. Once the song was written down and recorded, it became a timeless classic. Today, this 1959 hit remains a staple at celebrations around the world.

9

You’re So Vain - Carly Simon

Image: Dinielle De Veyra

A song with the famous line "You're so vain, you probably think this song is about you," has sparked decades of speculation about who inspired it. Mick Jagger, James Taylor, and Warren Beatty were all rumored to be the subject behind Carly Simon’s famous song. The singer and songwriter delighted in keeping the identity of any precise man a secret, and at some point declared that it had been written about a type of man in general.

However, in 2003, for a charity auction organized by Martha's Vineyard Possible Dreams organization, Simon decided to offer one big treasure to the highest bidder: The truth behind the song. Her friend Dick Ebersol paid $50,000 for the revelation. Under sworn secrecy, Simon revealed the person to Ebersol. He kept the secret, only telling the public that he found the answer "very surprising."

10

Walk the Line - Johnny Cash

Image: Simon Migaj

"I Walk the Line" was Johnny Cash's declaration of commitment and faithfulness, a song written for his first wife, Vivian Liberto. As he prepared to embark on long tours, Cash penned this song as a vow to assure her that he would remain true to her.

Beyond the inspiration for the lyrics, the song showed an array of singularities that made it stand out back in 1956. For example, each iteration of a verse is sung in a different key, a unique technique that can be heard in the gradual shifts of Cash’s voice. The low hum before each verse is Cash’s preparation for singing in each corresponding key. He also innovated by attaching a piece of paper to his guitar’s end which he would hit while playing, simulating the sound of a snare drum that can be heard in the song.

1

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog has held the title of the most popular dog breed in the US since 2022. Their friendly and adaptable nature, combined with their small size, makes them perfect companions for people living in apartments or smaller homes. They may snore a little when they sleep, but that only makes them even cuter.

Just be cautious around water. Despite their bold personalities, French Bulldogs are not strong swimmers. So it’s important to supervise them closely near pools, fountains, or any other body of water.

2

Labrador Retriever

In second place, we have the beloved Labrador Retrievers, who were surpassed by French Bulldogs only in 2022. For more than three decades, the sweet Labrador was America’s favorite dog, and for good reason.

Known for their outgoing and gentle temperament, they get along wonderfully with adults, children, and even other animals. Their intelligence and sensitivity also help them stand out not only as loyal family pets and hunting companions, but also as therapy and service dogs.

3

Golden Retriever

Right behind Labradors are Golden Retrievers, the good guys of the neighborhood. With their warm temperament and endless energy, they’ve earned the number three spot among the most popular breeds. Often described as "people pleasers," Goldens are more than just obedient; they’re quick learners who are always eager to join you on any adventure.

4

German Shepherd

Fourth on the list are German Shepherds, elegant, impressive dogs renowned for their loyalty, intelligence, and ability to learn quickly. Unlike Labradors and Golden Retrievers, however, they often have a more serious image, largely because they’re commonly associated with police work, search and rescue, and service roles. Naturally protective, they tend to be reserved at first but become affectionate with those they trust.

Do you remember Rin Tin Tin? He was a great example of the breed and helped bring German Shepherds to worldwide fame.

5

Poodle

It’s hard to write a paragraph about Poodles, not because we don’t have anything to say, but because it’s easy to be distracted by all that cuteness. Ranked fifth among the most popular breeds, Poodles also rank among the most intelligent dogs in the world. Their extraordinary smarts and enthusiasm to learn come from their history as skilled hunting dogs and even circus performers. Thanks to their obedience, agility, and strong bond with people, they continue to hold a top spot among America’s favorite breeds.

6

Dachshund

In sixth place are the adorable Dachshunds. Famous for their long bodies, short legs, and big personalities, these dogs weren’t in the top rankings a decade ago. Many believe their surge in popularity has been fueled in part by viral internet videos showcasing their charm and humor. But don’t let their small size fool you: Dachshunds may be small, but their deep, bold bark makes them sound much bigger than they really are.

7

Beagle

Beagles come in seventh place, though if there were a contest for best ears, they’d surely take first. They’re loved not only for their adorable looks but also for their intelligence and, above all, their extraordinary sense of smell. Originally bred as rabbit-hunting hounds, Beagles have a highly efficient nose and a powerful tracking instinct.

8

Rottweiler

With their striking appearance and muscled bodies, Rottweilers naturally command respect. Known for their loyalty and strong protective instincts, Rottweilers are a favorite among families who have enough space for these large, energetic dogs.

Did you know they’re considered one of the oldest surviving dog breeds? It’s true! Their ancestors are believed to have accompanied the legions of the ancient Roman Empire, where they were used to herd and guard livestock.

9

Bulldog

They may have a grumpy look, but Bulldogs are incredibly sweet and calm. Ranked number nine on the list, this lovable breed is a great choice for anyone looking for a dog that easily adapts to their home and lifestyle. While they’re not exactly lazy, Bulldogs do enjoy taking plenty of breaks and conserving their energy, often choosing a cozy spot on the couch over a run around the block. Plus, with those funny faces, you’ll never run out of excellent pictures.

10

German Shorthaired Pointer

Last on this list, but still among the most popular breeds in the country, the German Shorthaired Pointer is admired for its elegance and presence. Originally bred in Germany as versatile hunting dogs, this breed excels at pointing, retrieving, and tracking. With their boundless energy, German Shorthaired Pointers are best suited to homes with plenty of outdoor space, as their athletic build and enthusiasm also help them shine in a wide range of dog sports.

1

Yellowstone National Park

Image: Meina Yin

Yellowstone National Park, created in 1872, is a vast natural forest of 3,500 square miles that spans the states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. More than half of the world's geothermal phenomena can be observed here , with some 10,000 different examples. It also has more than 300 geysers, which is about two-thirds of all the geysers on the planet.

This location, the first national park in the United States, has been a World Heritage Site since 1978. It is also known for protecting abundant and diverse wildlife —such as grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and wapiti— and for drawing millions of visitors from all over the world each year. And you, have you ever been?

2

Independence Hall

Image: Rdsmith4, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

The Independence Hall, located in historic Philadelphia, was designated a World Heritage Site in 1979. This location, far more than just a building, is considered the birthplace of America’s political foundation . The Assembly Room of the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall, is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. And just 11 years later, the United States Constitution was also debated and signed here.

This Georgian-style red brick structure was designed by Scottish lawyer Andrew Hamilton and completed in 1753 to house the colonial assembly of the Province of Pennsylvania. In the 19th and 20th centuries, it was then renovated several times. In 1966, the building was recognized as a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. government and is currently the centerpiece of the Independence National Historical Park.

3

Statue of Liberty

Image: Anthony DELANOIX

Installed in 1886 at the gate of New York’s harbor, the Statue of Liberty has since welcomed millions of immigrants who have come to populate the United States. This colossal neoclassical 305-foot-tall effigy enlightening the world with its torch was made in Paris by the sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi in collaboration with Gustave Eiffel. It was a gift from France to our country on the occasion of the centenary of our independence.

To visit this historic monument, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, tickets must be purchased in advance. Or you can always ride the fare-free Staten Island ferry and admire it from afar in all its splendor!

4

Mesa Verde National Park

Image: Alec Krum

Located in the southwest of Colorado, the Mesa Verde Plateau reaches an altitude of over 8,500 feet. The National Park was established in 1906 and was added to the list of American World Heritage Sites in 1978. This location hosts a large number of Pueblo Indian dwellings built between the 6th and 12th centuries. Some 4,400 settlements have been found , including villages built high up on the plateau and imposing stone-built homes on rocky outcrops, with more than a hundred rooms in some cases.

The Mesa Verde National Park, which nowadays protects these invaluable archaeological sites, is a testament to the ancient cultural traditions of Native American tribes and is among the best preserved in the United States. If you haven’t visited yet, you must! We guarantee you a spectacular window into the past!

5

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Image: Zongnan Bao

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the southernmost Hawaiian island and was founded in 1916. It is best known for its extraordinary biodiversity spread over more than 340,000 acres, and it is in fact thanks to this natural richness that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1987.

The park, as you would have guessed, is home to several volcanoes . Although many of them are currently inactive, two are very much alive: Mauna Loa , which last erupted in 1984, is known to be still active and is considered the world's greatest volcanic mass; Kīlauea is more than 200,000 years old and has been erupting since 1983, the most recent occurring on June 3, 2024.

If you are considering visiting the park, exploring the volcanoes, and enjoying a unique experience, we also recommend a museum tour , where you can learn all about the history of these fascinating fiery peaks.

6

Monticello and the University of Virginia

Image: Richard Hedrick

The Monticello Residence in Virginia, designed by Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States, is one of the finest examples of American neoclassical architecture . Since 1987, it has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.

Jefferson created Monticello as his plantation mansion and envisioned the university as the ideal ‘academic village’ . His vision of architecture, based on classical antiquity, reflects not only his aspirations for a new American republic heir to the European tradition but also the degree of cultural experimentation that could be expected of a country in the process of democratic evolution.

7

Papahānaumokuākea

Image: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - Pacific Region's, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Papahānaumokuākea, made up of a series of 583,000 square miles of small islands, atolls, and surrounding marine wilderness, is located in northwest Hawaii. This particular location has enormous natural value as one of the largest marine protected areas in the world . It is equally important for its Native culture. Two of its islands, Nihoa and Makumanamana , bear archaeological remains that attest to the presence of human settlement even before the arrival of Europeans . For Hawaiians, this site has cosmological significance , as it represents the bond between humans and nature.

Papahānaumokuākea was designated a World Heritage Site in 2010, and although it’s not currently open to the general public, it continues to be accessible for research, habitat restoration, and cultural and educational purposes.

8

Grand Canyon National Park

Image: Isadora Neto

Grand Canyon National Park is known as one of the seven natural wonders of the world and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.

Located in the state of Arizona, this park is divided by a gigantic steep-sided canyon carved by the Colorado River, which, at more than 6,000 feet deep, is the most spectacular gorge in the world . This site is so relevant that all the geological history of the last two billion years can be found in its horizontal strata. And across its 277 miles, there are even traces of prehistoric man's efforts to adapt to a particularly inhospitable environment .

If you haven’t visited it yet, you should soon join the more than 5 million people traveling each year!

9

San Antonio Missions

Image: USA-Reiseblogger

This 2015 World Heritage Site, built on what was once the border of New Spain along the San Antonio River, constitutes five mission complexes that reflect the history of the region.

Founded by Franciscan missionaries in the 18th century, San Antonio includes architectural structures, archaeological remains, churches, dwellings, farmland, silos and water supply systems .

This site, located in Texas, is a living testament to the Hispanic monarchy's enterprise to colonize, evangelize, and defend the northern frontier territories of New Spain. These missions are also an example of the mixture of Hispanic and Coahuila culture , as can be seen in the ornamental elements of the churches that mix Catholic symbolism with native naturalist aesthetics.

10

The 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright

Image: Yuhan Du

This series of eight Frank Lloyd Wright works recognizes the famous architect's influence on modern design . The most relevant buildings included in the 2019 Unesco designation are Fallingwater House in Mill Run, Pennsylvania; Unity Temple Church in Oak Park, Illinois; Herbert and Katherine Jacobs House in Madison, Wisconsin; and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum of Art in New York City, among others.

These sites are a great example of the ‘organic architecture’ conceived by Wright, characterized by open plan design, the blurring of the boundaries between inside and outside, and the highly original use of materials such as steel and concrete . Wright's innovative conception of architecture, whether in residential, work, cultural, or religious buildings, greatly influenced the evolution of modern architecture in Europe and the United States and is still a point of reference for designers today.