The 11 Epic Music Moments That Defined 2016

Kat Armstrong
Dec 26, 2016

It might be true what they say: Sometimes the most turbulent of times can produce the best art. That saying most certainly is accurate for 2016. Even though we lost some of the biggest names in music, there was a lot to celebrate. 2016 will probably go down in history as one of the most iconic years for modern music.

1. Lady Gaga sings “Million Reasons.”This song. So heartbreaking, so raw. Gaga’s ability to really reach out and get to the heart of what’s happening in her life is one of the reasons she’ll go down in history. This song is one of our faves for 2016.

2. Jennifer Hudson gives a Tribute to Prince at the BETs.JHud is a force to be reckoned with, and her cover of Prince’s “Purple Rain” is so gorgeous. With the entire audience singing along, this soulful rendition will be one we can imagine that people will talk about for years.

3. Solange drops “Cranes in the Sky.”Although this year has certainly been a Beyoncé stunner, sister Solange made major indie waves when she dropped her album in the fall. The jam every cool kid has had on repeat ever since the album’s release is its first single “Cranes in the Sky,” a different kind of breakup song than Gaga’s. Solange can hold her own, and this year proved she is not living in her sister’s shadow.

4. Beyoncé drops Lemonade and slays us all. What can we say about Lemonade? The visual album and the music? There’s a reason Bey’s the Queen and will remain so. “Sorry” brought us one of the most famous moments of shade in 2016, having everyone and their mother wondering who exactly “Becky with the good hair” is, and how much of the album is real (and associated with the Solange/Jay Z elevator fight) and how much is art.

5. Drake presents Rihanna with her VMA Video Vanguard award and they finally are a couple (sort of). Rihanna is a legend. Drake’s crush on Rihanna is also legendary. After this awards moment, the couple had a short-lived romance, but they’ve already split, probably much to Drake’s chagrin. Who knows, though? It seems like the couple is on-again off-again forever.

6. Zayn launches his solo career. Zayn Malik has admitted that leaving One Direction was not the best time in his life. However, he came through the other end and released one of the sexiest songs we can remember. The video for “PIllowtalk” is muy caliente and features the singer’s real life girlfriend, Gigi Hadid.

7. Beyoncé and the Dixie Chicks perform at the CMAs. This performance made a lot of country music fans upset because of the Dixie Chicks’ now 13-year-old proclamation of distrust of former President George W. Bush, and they were mad because Bey isn’t technically a country singer. We, on the other hand, absolutely adore this performance and song and think this match is a perfect one.

8. DNCE releases “Cake by the Ocean.” What is this even? This song is so catchy and fun, but it makes zero sense. The video is weird to boot (and maybe an advertisement for dating app Bumble?). We have no idea what DNCE is even about, but we’re here for it.

9. Calvin Harris gives us “This Is What You Came For.” This song will forever be part of the Taylor Swift/Calvin Harris split ever since Taylor admitted writing this song for her ex, and it definitely was one of the defining music moments of 2016.

10. Kendrick Lamar performs at the Grammys. Kendrick Lamar has had a year. Performing a medley of songs from his To Pimp a Butterfly album, the rapper blends performance, music and politics to get people woke and share the truth of being black in America.

11. Drake and Tyra Banks date at Cheesecake Factory in “Childs Play.” Tyra’s angry girlfriend in this Drake video is everything. Honestly, we’re mad at Drake for ruining their Cheesecake Factory date too. WE. ARE. TIRED. OF. YOU. AUB. REY.

What was your favorite moment in music in 2016? Tell us @Britandco!

(Featured photo via Theo Warga / Getty)

This Story About "Protective & Kind" Pedro Pascal Will Restore Your Faith In Men

The entire world fell in love with Pedro Pascal during The Last of Us and The Mandalorian, and even though we won't see him as Reed Richards in the Fantastic 4until next summer, there is PLENTY of content to go around. He's always fangirling over someone's nails or hyping up his family, and Connie Nielsen explaining how Pedro made her feel special on the Gladiator 2 set makes me love him even more (which I didn't know was possible).

Keep reading to see what Connie Nielsen had to say about working with Pedro Pascal on Gladiator 2. TBH, It just might restore your faith in men.

Gladiator 2 follows Paul Mescal's Lucius, who's determined to bring down General Acacius (Pedro Pascal), who he considers responsible for his loss. Connie plays Pedro's onscreen wife Lucilla, and when asked what it was like to share scenes with him, she reveals she felt "really feminine around him."

"He's a protector in a way, and I'm not always used to that," she tells Good Morning America. "So it was kind of special to have that feeling that he was a guy who's protective and kind and just [a] very loving kind of person."

The actress also spilled on how "you can just tell he has this joy and, at the same time, you can also sense that he's been through stuff that's been hard and I just really love a person who responds to what has been hard in life with joy."

Pedro Pascal has been vocal about his family fleeing Chile in the 1970s, and how his parents had to "go into hiding for about six months," and it's clear Connie's proud of the man he's become. "He doesn't become caustic or, you know, entitled," she continues. "He's the least entitled man, always nice to everyone on set. Just a sweetheart of a guy."

Is someone cutting onions?!

For his part, Pedro loved working with Connie too, and, when asked what it was like working together, Pedro immediately responds with, "Power couple."

"We just dove right in," he continues, joking that he "made sure Connie understood that I was her man."

Pedro Pascal always seems to have an encouraging comment or joke ready to make everyone laugh, and revealed to Entertainment Weekly that during an intense battle scene, he actually tripped and landed at Paul Mescal's feet.

"I was running off the drawbridge, and they kind of dressed it with some dust so that when it slams against the fortified wall, there's a big puff of smoke," he says. "And I'm charging off the drawbridge and jumping over the wall, and I slip. I literally bounce off the drawbridge on my —ss and land splat in front of Paul's feet on the first take." Naturally, he followed up with, "Are you not entertained?"

Are you excited to see Connie Nielsen and Pedro Pascal in Gladiator 2? If you're still thinking about the Roman Empire, read up on what What Paul Mescal Had To Say About Gladiator 3.

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Um, Zendaya Just Threw A Drink At Someone's Car

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson are currently filming the upcomingA24 film, The Drama, and it's a pair I didn't know I needed! I'm so pumped to see the two of them front and center in the new movie, and not just because the Massachusetts location is giving MAJOR New England autumn vibes. The actors have been spotted walking around the city, hanging out outside an art museum, and even getting into a road rage altercation? Yeah, that definitely sounds like drama to me.

Keep reading for every little detail you need to know about Robert Pattinson and Zendaya's new A24 movie The Drama.

What movie is Robert Pattinson and Zendaya in together?

Brendon Thorne / Getty Images

The Drama Plot

Zendaya and Robert Pattinson's The Drama comes from the mind of Kristoffer Borgli, who most recently directed Dream Scenario starring Nicholas Cage. Borgli is slated to work alongside Ari Aster and Lars Knudsen’s production company Square Peg for the film, so I'm sure it'll be just as thought-provoking and thrilling as some of the other projects they’ve produced (Midsommar, Beau is Afraid, Death of a Unicorn).

Jeff Spicer / Getty Images for Warner Bros.

Given Zendaya and Pattinson’s respective star power, I know this upcoming A24 project is going to be absolutely stunning. Even though we don't have any specific plot details yet, Deadline reported that The Drama tells the story of a couple whose romance takes a (you guessed it) dramatic turn right before their “big day.” Tell me more!!

One thing we do know is that a scene will apparently feature Zendaya's character getting into an altercation with a car while on a walk. The actress went viral for throwing a drink at a passing car, and she's so convincing, one TikTok user said "help i thought this was real for a second i was like omg what is going on."

Who else is in The Drama movie cast?

Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images

The Drama Cast

In addition to Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, we'll see Mamoudou Athie and Alana Haim. Stay tuned for more cast updates.

What else has Zendaya been up to?

Clive Brunskill / Getty Images

Zendaya currently boasts two Emmys from her work in HBO’sEuphoria and has only continued to exhibit her talents in recent feature titles like Dune: Part Two and Challengers. Plus she's finally reuniting with BF Tom Holland in Spider-Man 4and Christopher Nolan's brand new film. Busy gal!

What about Rob?

Alberto E. Rodriguez / Getty Images for CinemaCon

Of course, we all know and love Pattinson for his role as Edward in the Twilight movies, but he’s positioned himself as a truly versatile actor with roles in 2022’s The Batman and Bong Joon Ho’s upcoming sci-fi film, Mickey 17.

Mike Coppola / Getty Images, Francois Durand / Getty Images

The two stars are still in early talks about starring in the film, but Deadline has confirmed that The Drama is a “top priority” at A24 given the success with 2023’s Dream Scenario. And, like, DUH!

Loving this news on Zendaya's The Drama? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news in movies, TV, and pop culture!

This post has been updated.

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45 Things You Need In Your Home For Better Modern Living

Home is a haven. We all spend so much time in our home every day, whether we work from home or just start and end our days there. Because we spend so much time in our homes, they should be as comfortable as possible and as smart. We've rounded handpicked incredible products, each designed to make your home look and feel as comfortable as possible or to add ease to every room with smart gadgets. Make your home the haven you deserve with these curated products.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Keep the Bathroom Cozy With This Towel Warmer

Amazon

Unlike the towel warmers you've seen before, these towel warming bars are useful whether they're heating or not. Even if you have the warming feature turned on, these bars work as a handy storage rack.

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Add the Viral Samsung Frame to Your Home

Amazon

The internet has long loved the Samsung Frame and we don't blame them. The TV doesn't just give you incredible 4K QLED views, but it also looks like elegant, museum-style art when you're not using it.

See it on Amazon

This Folding Sofa Bed Is Great for Smaller Spaces

Amazon

Whether you add this to a kid's playroom or you use it in your studio apartment, this stylish folding sofa bed won't take up too much space but adds tons of style and a bit of color to the room.

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This Device Keeps Your Fridge Fresher Longer

Amazon

Believe it or not, this brilliant smart device can help keep the food in your fridge fresher for longer. The device removes bacteria load, reduces odors, and even works with Alexa or Google Home to keep up with your fridge.

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This Smart Faucet Is Touch-Free

Amazon

The busier the kitchen is, the better this smart faucet is. The extendable, commercial-style faucet allows you to wave a hand and instantly turn the water on or off, which is great for multitasking.

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These Outdoor Wall Sconces Add Elegance

Amazon

These lanterns are a waterproof dream, designed to elevate your outdoor space with minimal work. The lights offer a bit of a modern touch to your front or back porch when you install them.

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This Bathroom Organizing Shelf Keeps You Organized

Amazon

This shelving unit is modern and sleek and looks fantastic above your toilet. The shelf is easy to install and offers shelves, hooks, and a large drawer to tidily fit all your bathroom essentials.

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This Electric Salt and Pepper Set Is a One-Handed Wonder

Amazon

You only need one hand to operate these handy, modern electric grinders. These allow you to easily and quickly season your recipes or the plate of food on your table. They're battery-operated and easy to adjust.

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These Smart Lights Work Under Your Cabinets

Amazon

These puck lights adhere to the underside of your cabinets, shedding light right where you need it. Control the color, warmth, and brightness with the handy app to customize your lighting.

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This Smart Oven From Breville Is Bite-Sized

Amazon

The best thing about this smart oven is that it's compact to help you preserve your precious counter space. The versatile oven offers you eight different cooking functions for quick and easy meals.

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This Ergonomic Desk Chair Is Modern and Sleek

Amazon

The tufted pleather of this desk chair makes it look timeless, but the shape and the ergonomic technology give it the most comfortable touch of modernity. It's great for work-from-homers.

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Keep Up With Everything With the Echo Hub

Amazon

Extend the Alexa ecosystem in your home or welcome it into your house for the first time with the Hub. The tool allows you to keep track of everyone's schedules, your grocery lists, and even lets you stream music and shows.

See it on Amazon

This Smart Kettle Makes Tea Time the Best Time

Amazon

Whether you're a tea drinker or a coffee fanatic, this Govee smart kettle makes your life easier. Control the kettle with the app and keep it at the perfect temperature, start it up while you're still in bed, or turn it off when you forget.

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This Smart Bidet Does It All

Amazon

Bring the modern into your bathroom with this smart bidet toilet. This addition to your home keeps you clean, warms you up, deodorizes, and even cleans itself to make your life as easy as possible.

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These Dining Chairs Are Modern and Fun

Amazon

These gorgeous chairs are a nod to mid-century modern styles, but the material makes them read as truly modern. The slightly transparent look is so different and exciting and adds some fun to your dining room.

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This Adorable Alarm Adds Modern Charm

Amazon

Add something a little different to your home with this home-shaped alarm. The beautiful gadget uses bright LED lights to display the time clearly across the side of the sweet house.

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This Blink Camera Works Inside or Out

Amazon

The Blink security camera is a compact, powerful device that helps you keep track of everything happening inside or outside your house. The two-year battery life means you don't have to worry about recharges.

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Create a Beautiful Nightscape With This Govee Light

Amazon

This beautiful Govee smart light allows you to create a gorgeous setting for the party or your bedtime routine. Easily control it using the same app that all your other favorite Govee lights run on.

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This Mid-Century Modern Chair Is So Comfy

Amazon

Not all beautiful furniture is comfortable, but this MCM armchair manages to be both. The chair has supportive, thick cushions and a sturdy wood base designed for all the lounging your heart desires.

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Keep Your Home Cozy With This Dehumidifier

Amazon

Control the temperature and humidity of your home with this smart dehumidifier. The app means you can control the climate of your home even when you're gone, which is great for plant parents!

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Shed Some Light With These Rechargeable Lamps

Amazon

These dimming lamps are elegant, simple, and really useful. Because these don't need to be plugged in, you can't put them anywhere in the house, casting light right where you need it.

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This Coffee Table Is Beautiful and Simplistic

Amazon

Add some storage to your living room with this gorgeous coffee table. The table itself is simple, but the white washed oak and iron bands give it just a bit of a modern twist.

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Make Delicious Pizzas With This Oven

Amazon

This gas and propane pizza oven allows you to create delicious, handcrafted pizza pies in your own backyard. The oven is easy to set up and even easier to use, making it a great option for parties and holidays.

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Upgrade Your Home With the Echo Show 8

Amazon

This newest model of Amazon's famous Echo Show is a brilliant way to make your life simpler. Keep up with everyone's schedules, get help with dinner recipes, and even make a video call with this gadget.

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Elevate Your Home Office With This Desk

Amazon

The lines of this desk are bold and solid, and the hairpin legs bring a little dimension to your office. This sturdy, wooden desk is bare bones, but something about that adds to the elegance.

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This Wireless Meat Thermometer Saves Your Cooks

Amazon

Don't worry about over or under-cooking your meats with this wireless thermometer. This awesome gadget lets you remotely keep an eye on whatever you have baking, grilling, or roasting.

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This Gold Shelf Is Timeless

Amazon

Sure, this golden shelf is a timeless color and shape, but the strangely stacked shelves add a bit of modern to the storage unit. Display your favorite knick-knacks or store your beloved books on this shelf.

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This Sleeper Sofa Is a Modern Dream

Amazon

This beautiful sofa is hiding a secret; it's a sleeper sofa. You can pull the sofa out and lie it flat, giving your guests a comfortable and beautiful place to sleep when you host parties or family gatherings.

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Turn Anything Smart With These Plugs

Amazon

These Kasa smart plugs allow you to turn practically anything into a smart device. You can control lights, electronics, and more with the Kasa app or your favorite voice-activated assistant.

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These Side Tables Add Some Fun Industrial Style

Amazon

A really modern take on decor is combining multiple styles. This side table is a little industrial and would look amazing paired with some mid-century style or a style that's totally sleek and modern.

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Minimize Your Food Waste With This Composter

Amazon

This brilliant countertop composter helps you to turn that food waste into delicious, nutritious food for your plants. The gadget is easy to use and walks you through every step of the process.

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This Console Table Offers Elegant Storage

Amazon

Add storage to your living room with this beautiful console table. The table fits perfectly behind your sofa, looking beautiful and elegant while offering you a place to add decoration or storage.

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Organize Your Pantry With These Containers

Amazon

These no-mess, clear containers help you get everything organized and tidy in your pantry with their sturdy bodies and universal lids. With just a peek, you can see what you're running out of before you head to the store.

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Elevate Your Entryway With This Side Table

Amazon

This half-moon table brings a little warmth and some helpful storage to your entryway. The modern design is elegant and timeless, working beautifully with all your existing decor pieces.

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Customize Your Lighting With These Govee Lights

Amazon

These Hexa light panels from Govee are a really great way to modernize your gaming room, a bedroom, or even the living room. Each panel can be completely customized to create beautiful, bold lighting for any occasion.

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Take Cleaner Breaths With This Purifier

Amazon

This smart air purifier removes dust, pollen, and smoke from the air you breathe. It works in a room up to 1076 square feet, making it a great buy for cleansing even the largest of houses.

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This Beautiful TV Stand Looks Elegant In Your Living Room

Amazon

Turn your TV display into an attention-grabbing centerpiece with this beautiful mid-century modern console. The furniture has plenty of storage space and adds elegance to your living room.

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You're Going to Love Lounging on This Sectional

Amazon

This brilliant sectional comes in at an affordable price, allowing you to enjoy the comfort and support of a sectional without sacrificing on the modern style that you love and are aiming for.

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Make Streaming an Experience With This Govee Light

Amazon

This small Govee light allows you to create an entire viewing experience every time you stream. The interactive light uses a camera to customize itself to every new scene on the screen.

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This Ceiling Fan Works With Any Decor

Amazon

Whether you're styling modern or famous or something else entirely, this smart light fixture works with your decor. Use the app to adjust the brightness of the light of the speed of the fan.

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This Rechargeable Soap Dispenser Can Be Refilled

Amazon

Refill this foaming soap dispenser with your favorite soaps and let it dispense the perfect amount with every use. No more wasting soap and no more kiddos making a mess with the pump.

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With This Coffee Table, Your Office Can Be Anywhere

Amazon

The best thing about this coffee table is that you can bring the top up to you, creating a clear desktop. Whether you live in a small space or just want to be able to change up your office space, this coffee table is a must-have.

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Lift Any Blinds With the Touch of a Button

Amazon

The SwitchBot is a brilliant smart device that allows you to shed a little light in any room with the touch of a button. The setup is simple and quick, and the results are incredible and super modern.

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This Sideboard Is a Timeless Piece

Amazon

The texture, shape, and material of this sideboard make it a modern piece, but a sideboard itself is so timeless. This is the perfect blend of old and new for your home for decades to come.

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This Is More Than Just a Planter

Amazon

Sure, planters are awesome, but what's even better is a planter that's actually an air purifier. This beautiful gadget is smart without letting any of your guests know just how smart it really is.

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