This may seem like a silly thing to say, but once upon a time, the only way to get music was to listen for it. You turned on a radio or you bought a record.

If it sounded good, there was a chance the song might become a hit. That’s what mattered: the sound of the record.

That all began to change in the 1970s, and in less than ten years, sound began to matter less. How the song looked became the thing.

Critics laughed at the notion of a “music video” in the early days. But then came MTV, the world’s first 24-hour music video channel. They called it “illustrated radio”—and it worked.

After that we got MuchMusic, VH1, M2, Edge-TV, MuchMoreMusic, MuchLoud, The Box, and dozens of others around the world. And for years and years, if you wanted a chance to make it big, you had to make a music video. Yes, it was expensive, but too bad—it was all part of the game.

During the heyday, some videos cost millions and millions of dollars. Remember the video for “Scream” by Michael and Janet Jackson back in 1995? In today’s money, that video, which runs four minutes and 47 seconds, cost just under $15 million. Madonna made three videos with budgets of more than $10 million. You can make a feature-length movie with that kind of cash.

Pretty singers with mediocre songs often became stars, while less-attractive performers with good songs had a real chance of being passed over.

The art of the video affected the art of moviemaking. It influenced the way we look at television, not to mention fashion, language, politics, gender fluidity, LGBTQ issues, and so much more. Videos may have altered our attention spans—which kind of concerns me, because this program is an hour long and I need you to hang in there with me.

Music videos exported soft power from the West—especially the United States—to the rest of the world. At one point, MTV was one of the most influential creators and disseminators of culture—and by “culture” I mean America.

That was then. Music videos are still an art form and still necessary (well, mostly necessary) for promoting music, but things just aren’t what they used to be.

How did we get to this point? This is the rise, fall, and future of the music video.

Songs heard on this show:

• Captain Beefheart, Lick My Decals Off, Baby
• David Bowie, Ashes to Ashes
• The Buggles, Video Killed the Radio Star
• Peter Gabriel, Sledgehammer
• Nirvana, Smells Like Teen Spirit

Eric Wilhite has a playlist.

The Ongoing History of New Music can be heard on these stations.

• 102.1 The Edge/Toronto – Sunday night at 7pm
• Q107/Toronto – Sunday night at 9pm
• Live 88-5/Ottawa – Saturdays at 9am and Sundays at 6pm.
• 107.5 Dave-FM/Kitchener – Sunday nights at 11pm
• FM96/London – Sunday nights at 8pm
• Power 97/Winnipeg – Sunday nights at 10am and 10pm
• 107-3 The Edge/Calgary – Sundays at 10am and 10pm
• Sonic 102.9/Edmonton – Sunday at 8am and 8pm
• The Zone/Victoria – Sunday at 9am and 9pm
• The Fox/Vancouver – Sundays at 10anm and 10pm
• The Goat Network/Interior BC
• Surge 105/Halifax – Sunday at 7pm
• WAPS/WKTL The Summit/Arkon, Canton, Cleveland, Youngstown – Mon-Fri at 9pm

Don’t forget there’s a  podcast version (along with hundreds of others) available, in case you miss an episode. Get them for free wherever you get your podcasts.

 

© 2026 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

Wet Leg, featuring Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers, is one of the most exciting bands to come out of the UK this decade. Here are a few facts about them that might have escaped your attention so far.

First of all, the band is from the Isle of Wight. Rhian and Hester were friends for about ten years before they formed the band. Hester had a job making jewelry while Rhian was a stylist.

(2) They found their name by playing a game with emojis. When the emojis for “wet” and “leg” came together, they decided that was it. Well, maybe that’s the story. Another explanation is that “wet leg” is Isle of Wight slang for non-locals.

(3) When they first started playing live, they were booked for hour-long sets. The problem with that is they only had 35 minutes’ worth of music. They had to fill time with covers and extended jams of their own songs. It was…awkward.

© 2026 Corus Radio, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

Here are some facts about Linkin Park that you can use to impress your friends.

(1) Before he moved to LA to join Linkin Park, Chester Bennington had a job slinging Whoppers at a Burger King in Phoenix.

(2) Drummer Rob Bourdon decided he wanted to play the drums when he was ten. His mom was best friends with Aerosmith drummer Joey Kramer. Mom got them both backstage, where Joey gave Rob his first-ever drum pedal.

(3) In August 2001, during an early Linkin Park tour—they were part of Ozzfest and playing Boston—Chester was bitten by a poisonous recluse spider at the band’s hotel. His reaction was so bad that he got a fever and endured delusions during a week-long hospital stay. A couple of shows had to be cancelled

© 2026 Corus Radio, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

Here is a list of closures and cancellations around Manitoba as a result of inclement weather:

ROAD CLOSURES:

• Highway 20, from Dauphin to Winnipegosis
• Highway 269, from Hwy 364 to Hwy 276.

SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS:

• Turtle Mountain School Division
• Lakeshore School Division
• Southwest Horizon School Division
• Rolling River School Division-Colony Schools are closed
• Brandon School Division-Alexander, O’Kelly and Spring Valley Schools are closed
• Prairie Rose School Division-Hutterian Colony School Sites are closed
• Portage la Prairie School Division-Hutterian schools are closed
  
• DSFM-École Saint-Lazare

BUS CANCELLATIONS:

• Portage la Prairie School Division
• Beautiful Plains School Division
• Rolling River School Division
• Prairie Rose School Division
• Brandon School Division-buses will not be operating outside the city of Brandon.
• DSFM-Buses are cancelled for École Aurèle Lemoine (Saint-Laurent), École Jours de Plaine (Laurier), École régionale Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes, École Gilbert-Rosset (Saint-Claude), École La Source (Shilo) and École Saint-Jean-Baptiste.

OTHER:
None to report at this time.

This list will continue to be updated.

© 2026 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Great news: giving your space a whole new look doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. We’ve rounded up the possibilities for every room in your home and you’ll be amazed how small changes can make a big impact. From high-quality affordable furniture from Article, to bathroom essentials from Aesop and more, these budget-friendly changes not only elevate your decor but also make your home feel fresh, inviting, and entirely new—no major renovations required.

Kitchen

This sleek stool is made from molded plastic and set atop black powder coated legs. Whether indoor or out, every bartop needs its perfect match.[/product_listing]

 

This faucet mat is an eco-friendly tray made from diatomaceous earth that quickly absorbs water and keeps sinks dry. Its semi-circular design with non-slip rubber pads and grooves are practical while giving off a modern, nature-inspired aesthetic.[/product_listing]

 

Bathroom

This Moen sink faucet features a sleek chrome finish and single-handle design. It offers easy temperature control, meets standards for water efficiency, and comes with Moen’s limited lifetime warranty for durability and safety.[/product_listing]

 

For those who love organic shapes in home decor – this stunning gold-framed mirror adds personality and interest to any plain wall.[/product_listing]

 

This gentle exfoliating hand wash from Aesop combines finely milled pumice with botanical extracts like vetiver root, petitgrain, and bergamot rind to cleanse and smooth hands while leaving a woody, earthy, and smoky aroma.[/product_listing]

You may also like:

Skylight Calendar: 15-inch Digital Calendar – $359.00

ORRD Accent Sideboard Buffet Cabinet – $152.99

Modern Abstract Pictures Wall Art – $22.24

Living & dining room

Want to elevate any plain wall? Molding is the answer. Designed for easy glue installation, this kit includes 3 top and 3 bottom panels, perfect for accenting living rooms, bedrooms, or hallways with professional-looking results.[/product_listing]

 

This neutral Vincent Van Gogh print is for those who love impressionist style classics. It’s framed and ready to hang, so all that’s left to decide is where in your home it will shine, whether above a reading nook, your living room sofa, or a bedroom wall.[/product_listing]

 

If you’re in the market for the perfect finish touch to your living area, this ceramic vase features a handcrafted, rustic terracotta finish with a non-slip base. Its versatile farmhouse design complements a wide range of home decor styles, perfect for centerpieces, living rooms, or as a thoughtful gift. Just add fresh flowers.[/product_listing]

 

Bedroom

This beautiful stone diffuser not only adds aromatherapy benefits to your home but also looks great on your bedside table. Diffuse all your favourite scents and enjoy this diffuser’s air-purifying properties. Relaxation is in the air![/product_listing]

 

This fluffy duvet from Canadian Down & Feather is made from goose feather fill with insulating properties. Support the Canadian economy by refreshing your bedding with this top-rated home-grown option.[/product_listing]

 

Enjoy a sleep that’s customized to your comfort (and style) with this cotton sheet sleep bundle. Choose your favourite colours for the sheets, duvet and sham—and enjoy ten per cent off![/product_listing]

 

You may also like:

Fluffy White Throw Blanket – $19.99

 Rose Pink Reversible 3 Piece Duvet Cover Set – $148.72

Soft Knit Throw Blanket – $39.99

Lavender Linen and Room Spray – $16.99

© 2026 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

Staring down a record deficit of $1.3 billion, the New Brunswick government has warned that virtually every service and program risks facing cuts in next month’s budget.

For the government to continue investing in areas like health care and education, “we must be prepared to control our expenses and generate new revenues,” Finance Minister René Legacy told reporters earlier this week.

“The status quo is not sustainable in the long term.”

The Finance Department has released a list of options to save money or generate new revenue, and it’s calling on New Brunswick residents to send in comments on those ideas by the end of the week.

Here’s five things to know about New Brunswick’s possible solutions to its budget woes:

1. How bad is it? 

The $1.3-billion projected deficit is the biggest on record and the fiscal year isn’t over. The Opposition Progressive Conservatives say the numbers could get even worse.

The last budget from former Tory premier Blaine Higgs’ government in 2024-25 projected $13.3 billion in spending and a $41-million surplus. Premier Susan Holt’s Liberals took power in October of 2024 and, when the final accounting was done, the fiscal year had swung to a $104.4-million deficit.

Holt’s first budget, for the 2025-26 fiscal year, added about $1 billion in spending for a total of $14.3 billion and projected a $549-million deficit. The red ink has more than doubled since then.

The province’s net debt was $12.3 billion in March 2025. It’s now projected to rise to $13.9 billion by year’s end. About five per cent of all government revenue, $740 million, is spent just on servicing debt.

2. What could the government cut? 

Legacy says there’s no one place where the government can save $1 billion, so nipping and tucking just about everything is on the table.

The Finance Department says the civil service has grown 14 per cent in recent years and the government could shed some of its 13,000 employees. It says reducing contracts with outside consultants could save up to $50 million a year and the province could cut certain grants to non-profits and community groups.

The government says some provincial roads have been built or upgraded beyond what is justified, and it might create a new policy to align building and maintenance with traffic volumes.

3. What about health care and education?

Health care and education combined make up more than half of the provincial budget so trimming the fat without looking at the two departments will be difficult. The next budget will also have to bake in the full-year cost of a new agreement with physicians, estimated around $270 million. Because of timing, only $176 million of the contract is included in the current fiscal year.

The province says it could shift beds from hospitals to long-term care homes to save money and could also review subsidized vaccines. It mentions eliminating duplication in home-care assessments and streamlining health-care operations while maintaining essential services.

The province is considering selling off properties and buildings, including schools with fewer than 100 students. Legacy noted Tuesday that about one-third of the province’s schools currently have enrolments of less than 30 per cent of their total capacity.

“I don’t know if it’s the right mix or the right situation, but we have to ask the question,” he said.

4. Are taxes going up?

Legacy suggested Tuesday that New Brunswick taxes are already among the highest in Canada so the government isn’t seriously considering raising them. However, the province says the more than 2,000 service fees it charges for things like permits might be on the way up and new fees may be introduced. It’s also considering a levy on arts and culture tickets, bumping up the cost to lease Crown land and an increase in mining royalties.

The province is considering overhauling the property tax system, including a review of how it pays property taxes on behalf of universities and how the rural road levee works.

5. What other measures is the government considering?

New Brunswick might start charging tolls for out-of-province vehicles. The government has suggested those could be placed at provincial boundaries or on major highways.

The province notes it collects taxes and fees on products like lottery and gaming, tobacco, alcohol and seafood “with opportunities to further optimize and ensure the province is receiving the associated tax revenues.”

The government says it could tighten up provincial debt collection and notes the student loan program currently carries more than $125 million in defaults.

The budget is scheduled for March 17.

© 2026 The Canadian Press

The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Upgrading your sleep isn’t just a luxury—it’s an investment in your health and well-being. Mattress toppers have become the go-to solution for transforming any bed into a cloud of comfort. Think enhanced support, pressure relief, and temperature regulation. From Casper, to Silk & Snow and Canadian Down & Feather, these toppers will give you the ultimate sleep experience without the need for a whole new mattress. Whether you’re into down filled, hypoallergenic or cooling, there’s something for every sleeper (on any budget!). It’s the affordable way to get a whole new upgrade. Read on for the best mattress toppers and get ready to experience your best sleep yet.

 

Best overall

The Down Perfect Feather Bed combines the firm support of small white goose feathers with the soft luxury of a 550 loft down pillow top. Covered in breathable 100% cotton with elastic straps to secure it to your mattress, it adds plushness, insulation, and hypoallergenic luxury to any bed.[/product_listing]

 

Best organic

Sleep better and feel good with this organic mattress topper from Silk & Snow, made from breathable, organic latex that adds support and comfort to your bed. With two firmness options and a removable organic cotton cover, it’s an easy, eco-friendly way to make any mattress feel just right.[/product_listing]

 

Best medium-firm support

If your baby deserves a little extra luxury at nap time, the Vibe Bear Premium Pack and Play Mattress Topper offers a soft, breathable design and perfectly snug fit. Crafted with gentle, medium-firm support and whisper-quiet materials.[/product_listing]

 

Best value

The Bamboo Mattress Topper transforms any mattress into a cool, soft, and supportive sleep surface with its snow sown alternative fill and breathable bamboo cover. Designed with deep elastic pockets for a secure fit and easy machine washability, it keeps your bed comfortable, fresh, and perfectly in place.[/product_listing]

 

You may also like:

Blackout Curtains for Bedroom – $18.82

Himalayan Glow White Salt Crystal Lamp – $55.99

Google Fitbit Charge 6 Advanced Health and Fitness Tracker – $139.95

 

Best cooling

Unlike ordinary mattress toppers, this one doesn’t just add fluff — it actually helps keep you cool all night with its special breathable design. The three-zone support molds to your body for extra comfort, and the deep-stretch pockets fit snugly on thick mattresses so it stays put, night after night.[/product_listing]

 

Best body contouring

If your mattress could use a little glow-up, the Casper Comfy Mattress Topper combines cooling and body-contouring memory foam for comfort that never overheats or sags. With a soft, removable quilted cover, it feels like a five-star hotel every night.[/product_listing]

 

Best memory foam

Sleep like a baby with this ultra comfy mattress topper that will help you get the deep sleep you’ve always wanted. Made from two inches of plush memory foam, this mattress topper is the perfect way to instantly upgrade any bed.[/product_listing]

 

Best dual-layer

This dual-layer topper combines 2 inches of cooling gel memory foam with a 1-inch quilted pillow top for customizable support and pressure relief. Its breathable construction keeps you cool while conforming to your body, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep.[/product_listing]

 

You may also like:

Amazon Echo Spot Smart Alarm Clock – $69.99

Cooling Pillows – $57.39

Noise-Reducing Earplugs For Sleep – $31.95

© 2026 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Waxing appointments? Razor runs? Think again. For your smoothest summer yet, staying in might be the move. After dominating TikTok feeds and beauty forums alike, at-home laser hair removal has entered the chat. The promise? Long-term hair reduction, fewer ingrowns and silky skin sans the pricey clinic appointments.

Once reserved for derm offices and med-spas, laser hair removal is now available in sleek, user-friendly devices designed for couch-side convenience. If you’ve been laser-curious but slightly intimidated, consider this your ultimate guide. From how it works (and who it works best on) to what to avoid and which devices are worth investing in–think Tria, Ulike and Braun–here’s everything you need to know before starting your at-home laser journey.

How does at-home laser hair removal work?

Most at-home devices use IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) technology rather than true medical-grade lasers. IPL emits broad-spectrum light that targets the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light converts to heat, damaging the hair follicle at the root and slowing future growth.

Translation? The darker the hair, the better the results. These devices rely on contrast between your skin tone and hair colour to effectively “see” and target the follicle.

Who does at-home laser work best on?

Here’s the honest truth: at-home laser isn’t one-size-fits-all. This chart summarizes which hair and skin typees at-home laser will and will not work as effectively on:

Best candidates:

• Light to medium skin tones with dark brown or black hair
• Areas with coarse hair (underarms, bikini line, legs)

Less effective on:

• Blonde, red, grey or white hair (there isn’t enough pigment for the light to target)
• Very deep skin tones, depending on the device and its safety range

That said, technology has come a long way. Some newer devices offer broader skin tone compatibility with built-in skin sensors that adjust intensity levels. Always check the brand’s Fitzpatrick scale chart before purchasing. If you have very deep skin tones or very light hair, professional laser treatments may be a safer and more effective route.

The best time to start? Fall, winter or early spring

If smooth skin by summer is the goal, the months leading up to it are ideal for starting treatments. Here’s why:

• Multiple sessions are required (typically once weekly for 8-12 weeks to begin).
• Sun exposure must be limited before and after treatments.
• Tanned skin increases the risk of irritation, burns and pigmentation changes.

Fall, winter and early spring are ideal because skin is usually at its natural (non-tanned) tone, making treatments safer and more effective. Think of it as pre-season prep for summer.

What to expect: The treatment timeline

Patience and consistency are part of the process–skipping sessions can delay results, so consistency is key.

Weeks 1-4: Visible change may be minimal at first. Hair grows in cycles, and IPL only affects hairs in the active growth phase.

Weeks 4-8: Hair typically grows back slower and finer. Some areas may already appear smoother with patchy regrowth.

Weeks 8-12: Many users experience noticeable reduction in hair growth. After this phase, treatments transition into maintenance mode (every 4-8 weeks, depending on regrowth).

 

You may also like:

Gillette Venus Tropical Disposable Razors – $10.97

Tweezerman Exclusive Dusty Rose Slant Tweezer – $23.83

L’ange Hair Le Volume 2-in-1 Titanium Brush Dryer – $97.98

 

How to prep (and what not to do)

Before powering on any device, follow these guidelines carefully.

Do:

• Shave 24 hours before treatment (never wax or pluck–the follicle must be intact).
• Use on clean, dry skin only–no lotions, oils or deodorant.
• Perform a patch test 24-48 hours before your first full session.
• Start on the lowest intensity setting and increase gradually as tolerated.
• Daily SPF is essential on any exposed treatment areas to prevent hyperpigmentation and irritation.

Don’t:

• Tan before or after treatments. Avoid direct sun exposure for at least two weeks before and after each session.
• Use on sunburned, irritated or broken skin.
• Laser over tattoos, dark moles or pigmented lesions.
• Wax or pluck between sessions.
• Apply retinol, exfoliating acids or strong actives on treatment areas for several days before and after use.

Does it hurt?

At-home devices are designed to be gentler than in-office treatments. Most users describe the sensation as a quick snap of warmth—similar to a light elastic band flick. More sensitive areas, such as the bikini line or ankles, may feel more intense. A soothing aloe gel can help calm warmth or redness post-treatment.

The pros

• Long-term hair reduction from home
• Fewer ingrowns and less irritation
• Cost-effective over time compared to waxing or professional sessions
• Convenient and private
• Compact, travel-friendly devices

The cons

• Not effective on all hair colours or skin tones
• Requires patience and consistency
• Upfront cost can be significant
• Sun exposure restrictions

 

Read on for our favourite at-home hair removal products to add to your routine. *Please remember to do a patch test on your skin before using any laser treatments.

 

Best precision

If you’re looking for targeted, professional-grade results, the Tria 4X delivers. Its laser technology is FDA-cleared and designed for smaller areas like the bikini line, underarms and even the face for up to 75 per cent hair removal after just 2 treatments, and up to 100 per cent hair removal after a full course of treatments[/product_listing]

 

Best affordable

For those who want results without the splurge, Ulike’s IPL device offers an impressive performance at a fraction of the cost. With five energy levels and a skin-cooling feature, it’s gentle enough for beginners yet effective for long-term hair reduction. Perfect if you’re testing the waters of at-home laser for the first time.[/product_listing]

 

Best for all-over use

The Silk’n Infinity is designed for speed and coverage, making it ideal if you’re treating larger areas like legs or arms. Its eHPL technology combines galvanic and optical energy, ensuring safe and virtually painless treatments. Bonus: it works across a wider range of skin tones and hair colours than many competitors.[/product_listing]

 

Best smart features

Braun’s Silk-expert Pro 5 takes the guesswork out of treatments with its SensoAdapt technology, which automatically adjusts the light intensity based on your skin tone. It’s powerful yet gentle, making it suitable for both small and large areas. Plus, its fast flash speed means you can treat legs in just minutes.[/product_listing]

 

Best cooling

Say goodbye to post-treatment redness. The LAORICI device features built-in ice-cooling technology, keeping skin comfortable and irritation-free while zapping away unwanted hair. Compact and budget-friendly, it’s a great option for those with sensitive skin who still want lasting smoothness.[/product_listing]

 

Best value

A bestseller, the Aopvui Laser Hair Removal device is an affordable at-home IPL option that actually works. With visible reduction in as little as three weeks, 999,000 flashes and nine energy levels, it delivers salon-quality smoothness for both women and men looking to freshen up for summer.[/product_listing]

 

You may also like:

Sliick At Home Waxing Kit  – $29.99

Schick Hydro Silk Touch-Up Dermaplaning Tool – $7.47

Finishing Touch Flawless Facial Hair Remover – $23.94

© 2026 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.

A fourth complainant is set to take the stand today at the sexual assault trial of billionaire businessman Frank Stronach.

Stronach, who is 93, has pleaded not guilty to 12 charges related to seven complainants. The charges stem from alleged incidents dating back as far as the 1970s.

On Wednesday, the court heard from a woman who says she grew to know and trust the auto parts magnate through the popular restaurant and nightclub complex he owned.

She testified that after having dinner with Stronach at the restaurant in the fall of 1977, he invited her to see his midtown apartment.

That’s when the woman, now in her 70s, says he pushed her over the arm of a chair and tried to rape her — an act she describes as a “betrayal.”

Two other complainants, both women in their 60s, testified earlier in the trial about alleged incidents that took place in the early 1980s.

© 2026 The Canadian Press

MILAN – Canada coach Jon Cooper has not ruled out captain Sidney Crosby for Friday’s semifinal against Finland at the Milan Cortina Olympics.

Crosby was not on the ice for Canada’s optional practice Thursday, but Cooper said after the practice the two-time Olympic gold medallist might play with a spot in the final on the line.

The 38-year-old captain was injured early in the second period of Wednesday’s thrilling 4-3 overtime victory versus Czechia when his right leg bent in an unnatural direction after taking a hit from defenceman Radko Gudas.

Crosby got back to his skates, but wasn’t moving well before taking more contact along the boards from Gudas and Czech forward Martin Necas.

The three-time Stanley Cup champion then made his way to the bench and eventually the locker room, and did not return to the action. Crosby helped Canada top the podium at the 2010 and 2014 Games.

Nathan MacKinnon, Brad Marchand, Cale Makar and Devon Toews were also absent from the heavily-attended skate.

The United States takes on Slovakia in Friday’s other semifinal. The gold medal game goes Sunday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 19, 2026.

© 2026 The Canadian Press