Carrie Underwood’s performance of “America the Beautiful” at President Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration became a viral sensation, but not for reasons she might have hoped.
According to entertainment analysts at Luminate, Underwood’s streaming numbers dropped on Inauguration Day, January 20, 2025. Her songs were streamed 1.46 million times, down six percent from 1.55 million the previous Monday. Similarly, rapper Nelly, who performed at the Liberty Ball the same day, experienced a dip in listenership, with streams decreasing from 1.63 million to 1.54 million.
While both artists saw modest increases in digital download sales, neither surpassed 1,000 downloads that day.
The decision to perform at Trump’s inauguration drew mixed reactions, particularly on social media. Underwood faced significant backlash.
“Carrie Underwood is performing at Trump’s inauguration, so I’m blocking her on all apps and boycotting her music,” wrote one listener on X.
Carrie Underwood is preforming at Trump’s inauguration so I’m blocking her on all apps and boycotting all her music. 😡 pic.twitter.com/bkZuNNeil4
Another commented on her Instagram: “So gross that you’re supporting Trump! History won’t forget.”
Despite the controversy, Underwood defended her choice in a statement to The Independent.
“I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event. I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future.”
Nelly also faced criticism for his participation but offered a different perspective during an interview on the Willie D Live podcast. “I respect the office,” he said. “The politics for me is over—he won. He’s the president, the commander-in-chief. This is the best country in the world.”
Drawing on his upbringing in St. Louis and his father’s Air Force service, Nelly emphasized his sense of duty. “If these people can give their life for the office, Nelly can perform. It is an honor for me to perform for the president of the United States, regardless of who is in office.”
The controversy surrounding their performances underscores the divisive nature of political affiliations in the entertainment industry and the scrutiny faced by artists who engage in high-profile political events.
Lin-Manuel Miranda returned to “Saturday Night Live,” taking the stage in the show’s cold open to reprise his iconic role as Alexander Hamilton. But instead of sticking strictly to the Revolutionary War vibe, the Tony-winning creator of “Hamilton” embraced the opportunity to poke fun at modern politics and, subtly, at himself.
The sketch opened with a dramatic reenactment of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Miranda’s Hamilton delivered a fiery speech that transitioned into a rap.
“In America, we will never have a king.”
Enter James Austin Johnson as President Donald Trump, who quipped, “Never say never! Kidding, of course, though in many ways, I’m not. I’m in my king era.”
The skit took aim at Trump’s eccentricities, with Johnson delivering a spot-on impression of rambling monologues and self-aggrandizement. While the rest of the cast portraying the founding fathers stood frozen, Johnson’s Trump riffed about everything from his inauguration (“a tremendous success held indoors due to cold and fear”) to Melania Trump’s fashion choices, likening her hat to that of Kung Lao from Mortal Kombat.
However, the humor turned self-referential when Johnson’s Trump mocked Miranda directly, blurring the lines between actor and character. “Look at Lin,” he said, pointing out Miranda’s visible eagerness to rap while remaining frozen. “He wrote a whole rap, and he doesn’t get to do it. Oh, the audience would have eaten that right up. But we’re not going to hear it.”
Miranda, known for his expressive performances, struggled to hold back laughter as Johnson delivered the roast with surgical precision. The tension broke when Miranda “unfroze” to deny Trump’s fabricated claim that he had anonymously donated $1 million to his campaign.
While Miranda’s performance in the skit showcased his theatrical talents and comedic timing, it also reflected his willingness to engage with satire—even when he’s the target. His Latino roots, a central element of his artistic identity, were present without being overly celebrated, grounding the performance in a nuanced take on representation.
Miranda’s return to SNL was a reminder of his ability to balance humor, politics, and culture without taking himself too seriously—a quality that continues to set him apart in the entertainment world.
North Korea conducted a significant strategic cruise missile test on Saturday, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency.
The launch, which involved underwater-to-surface missiles, was personally overseen by leader Kim Jong Un and described as a critical demonstration of the country’s military capabilities.
Details of the Test The missiles reportedly traveled over 900 miles during a flight duration of approximately 7,500 seconds before successfully hitting their targets, marking another milestone in Pyongyang’s pursuit of advanced weaponry. KCNA emphasized the test as part of North Korea’s broader strategy to bolster its defense capabilities in response to evolving regional threats.
Kim Jong Un reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening its military might, stating that North Korea’s deterrence measures are being “perfected more thoroughly.” He further pledged to continue efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability through enhanced military power.
Rising Regional Tensions In a separate statement on Sunday, North Korea’s foreign ministry criticized the United States and South Korea for their joint military exercises, blaming the alliance for escalating tensions in the region. The ministry warned of the “toughest counteraction” against Washington as long as it refuses to recognize Pyongyang’s sovereignty.
The missile test coincided with remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who, during a recent interview, suggested he might reconnect with Kim Jong Un, citing the rapport they developed during his first term in office.
South Korea’s Response South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed the missile launches, reporting that multiple cruise missiles were fired from inland areas toward waters off the country’s west coast on Saturday afternoon. Officials noted that the test reflects North Korea’s ongoing efforts to adapt its defense strategies to shifting regional security dynamics.
A Pattern of Provocations This latest test follows earlier demonstrations of North Korea’s military capabilities, including the successful launch of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile earlier this month. These developments underscore Pyongyang’s intent to solidify its position as a formidable military power despite international sanctions and diplomatic pressure.
A Global Concern North Korea’s growing arsenal and continued missile tests have raised alarms among its neighbors and the broader international community. While Kim Jong Un frames these actions as necessary for national defense, critics argue that they undermine regional stability and hinder efforts toward denuclearization.
As North Korea pushes forward with its military ambitions, the global community faces increasing challenges in navigating the delicate balance between diplomacy and deterrence in addressing Pyongyang’s provocations.
In a controversial move, the Trump administration announced the official renaming of two prominent landmarks: the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and Denali, North America’s tallest peak, back to Mount McKinley. While these decisions align with President Donald Trump’s campaign promises, experts suggest the changes are unlikely to gain international recognition due to historical and geopolitical factors.
A Legacy Renamed The Gulf of Mexico, a name deeply entrenched in global maritime history, has served as a vital navigational reference for centuries. The Trump administration’s Interior Department justified the change as a way to preserve and honor U.S. heritage, aligning it with the nation’s historical narrative. Similarly, Denali—restored to its Indigenous Koyukon name in 1975 at Alaska’s request—has once again been renamed Mount McKinley, paying homage to President William McKinley, who served from 1897 to 1901. Trump lauded McKinley’s expansionist policies and economic leadership in his inaugural address, stating that the president “made our country very rich through tariffs and through talent.”
International Implications Despite these domestic efforts, the likelihood of these name changes being recognized on a global scale remains slim. The Gulf of Mexico, shared by both the U.S. and Mexico, holds a name that transcends political boundaries. Mexican officials, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, have dismissed the renaming as symbolic rather than substantive. Sheinbaum even humorously proposed renaming the United States as “Mexican America,” highlighting the historical name once seen on early maps of the region.
Furthermore, international organizations such as the United Nations and maritime authorities are unlikely to adopt the new nomenclature without broad consensus. The long-standing recognition of the Gulf of Mexico underscores its importance in global navigation, trade, and diplomacy, making a unilateral name change difficult to enforce internationally.
Cultural and Historical Resistance The renaming of Denali also reignites debates about cultural identity and heritage. Indigenous communities and Alaskans have long championed the name Denali, meaning “tall” in the Koyukon language, as a symbol of respect for the region’s original inhabitants. Restoring its colonial-era name risks alienating local populations and undermines decades of progress toward recognizing Indigenous contributions to American history.
A Symbolic Gesture, Not a Global Shift While the Trump administration’s name changes reflect its emphasis on reviving traditional symbols of U.S. heritage, their impact may remain largely symbolic. The resistance from international communities and local stakeholders highlights the challenges of rewriting historical and cultural narratives in an interconnected world. For now, the Gulf of Mexico and Denali’s identities, as recognized by the broader global community, are unlikely to shift under these new designations.
Keep up with Trump’s second administration with us on Que Onda Magazine.
Houston Community College Southeast College (HCC SE) has garnered significant attention with its recent $200,000 grant award from Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders program.
In an exclusive interview with Que Onda Magazine, HCC SE President Dr. Frances Villagran-Glover shared her insights on how this transformative funding will support first-generation and low-income students through an initiative dubbed “The Yellow Brick Road Project.”
“The Yellow Brick Road Project aims to address challenges by connecting students to vital community resources and ensuring they have the tools to succeed.”- DR. FRANCES VILLAGRAN-GLOVER
Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders program typically extends its support to community-based nonprofit organizations.
However, this year, HCC SE became the first college invited to apply. “We were so honored to be the first college to be selected to apply. “This grant will give us the flexibility to address our community’s unique needs.”
Inspiration Behind “The Yellow Brick Road Project”
The project’s name draws inspiration from The Wizard of Oz. “Dorothy didn’t get to Oz on her own. She had the help of the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Lion, and even Glinda the Good Witch.”
“Just like Dorothy, our students don’t need to navigate their paths alone. We want to create a network of support to guide them toward their goals.”
The college plans to enhance collaborations with local nonprofit organizations, such as BakerRipley, Capital IDEA, Community Family Centers, and Catholic Charities, to provide wraparound resources like childcare, transportation, and career counseling.
“It’s about connecting students to the resources they need, so they don’t have to choose between school and life responsibilities,” she added.
Dr. Villagran-Glover shared a compelling example of how HCC SE’s partnerships have already made a difference. Angelica, a single mother with dreams of becoming a nurse practitioner, found support through the college and Capital IDEA.
“Angelica had the drive but needed guidance and financial assistance. Through this partnership, she received the resources to pursue her dream,” Dr. Villagran-Glover said.
Addressing Barriers to Success
Dr. Villagran-Glover, herself a first-generation college graduate, understands the hurdles many students face.
“The barriers are not always academic,” she noted. “Sometimes students tell us, ‘I want to go to school, but I don’t have daycare,’ or, ‘I can’t afford transportation.’”
The Yellow Brick Road Project aims to address these challenges by connecting students to vital community resources and ensuring they have the tools to succeed. Financial literacy workshops offered by Bank of America volunteers will also play a critical role.
“This partnership is about more than just funding. It’s about empowering our community members to build better financial futures.”
From Community Partnerships to College Completion
Dr. Villagran-Glover highlighted the critical role community partnerships play in ensuring students not only enroll but also complete their education. “It’s not just about getting students into college; it’s about making sure they graduate and succeed beyond the classroom,” she said.
She discussed how HCC SE is expanding its collaboration with industry leaders to provide mentorship opportunities, internships, and job placement programs.
“Our goal is to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring students have a clear pathway from the classroom to their careers.”
One of the strategies involves tailoring resources to meet the diverse needs of the student body.
“Many of our students are balancing jobs, families, and coursework,” Dr. Villagran-Glover explained.
“By working closely with community partners, we can provide personalized support to help them achieve their goals.”
She emphasized that the Yellow Brick Road Project is designed to be a comprehensive model of support, addressing not only immediate needs like childcare and transportation but also long-term success through skill-building and professional development.
Long-Term Impact
When asked about the project’s long-term goals, Dr. Villagran-Glover highlighted economic mobility.
“We strive to place students in careers that offer more than just a paycheck-to-paycheck existence. We want them to achieve their dreams and gain financial stability,” she said. The grant’s leadership development component will further strengthen the college’s impact Dr. Villagran-Glover and an emerging leader from HCC SE will participate in Bank of America’s leadership training.
“Continuous learning is vital for effective leadership. We’ll share these insights with our team and across the HCC system to ensure every student benefits.”
Measuring Success
The ultimate success of the Yellow Brick Road Project will be reflected in the stories of students who overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. “A year or two from now, I hope we’ll see more students like Angelica thriving in their careers and contributing to our community.” Through innovative partnerships and a commitment to student success, HCC SE’s Yellow Brick Road Project is paving the way for a brighter future for
Howdy! The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is hiring for a variety of roles to support its upcoming 2025 season, running from March 4 through 23, 2025. This is your chance to be part of the team behind Houston’s most iconic event at NRG Park.
Available Positions:
Buildings and Grounds Seasonal Labor
Intern
Seasonal Mail Center Support
Seasonal Video Production Technician
Security
Part-Time Seasonal Support
Studio Intern
Whether you’re looking for seasonal work or an internship to build your skills, there’s something for everyone.
How to Apply:
Visit the Rodeo Houston Jobs Portal to explore available positions and submit your application today.
Justin Baldoni’s wife, Emily, recently posted a heartfelt birthday message for her husband on Instagram, marking her first public statement amid Baldoni’s legal dispute with Blake Lively.
Emily shared a family photo with their two children.
“Happy birthday my love. Celebrating the man, husband, and father that you are. I’d choose you again and again,” the caption reads.
This is her first post in over a year and her first public acknowledgment of the controversy surrounding her husband.
The legal battle began when Lively, 37, accused Baldoni, 41, of sexual harassment and alleged efforts to damage her reputation following the release of their film “It Ends With Us.”
Baldoni has denied the allegations and countersued Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, claiming they are trying to ruin his career.
Recently, Baldoni’s legal team released behind-the-scenes footage of a dance scene from the movie, which Lively described as supporting her claims. Meanwhile, Baldoni and his producing partner, Jamey Heath, strongly deny the accusations.
Their film, based on Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel, explores themes of domestic violence. However, Lively faced criticism during its promotion for her “tone-deaf” handling of the sensitive subject matter. Both sides now accuse the other of orchestrating smear campaigns.
The legal proceedings have drawn public attention, with accusations and counter-accusations continuing to dominate headlines.
Keep up with the Lively-Baldoni legal feud with us on Que Onda Magazine.
A recent analysis based on FBI crime data has labeled New Mexico the most dangerous state in the U.S. for raising a family, citing its high rates of violent crime, property crime, and homicides.
Key Findings:
New Mexico: Highest violent crime rate, second in homicides (12 per 100,000 residents), and third in property crimes (2,998 per 100,000 people).
Washington & Colorado: Ranked second and third most dangerous states.
Top Five Most Dangerous: New Mexico, Washington, Colorado, Louisiana, and Oregon.
Safest States: New Hampshire, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, with New Hampshire boasting crime rates far below the national average.
New Hampshire stands out as the safest state, with a violent crime rate one-third of the national average. Idaho also ranks high for safety, showing the lowest rate of motor vehicle theft and the second-lowest aggravated assault rate.
Major layoffs across Texas, New York, Washington, and California have left hundreds jobless just days into President Donald Trump’s second administration.
Texas: Houston Refinery Shuts Down
LyondellBasell is set to permanently close its Houston refinery, leaving 400 employees unemployed. The decision stems from environmental concerns and unsuccessful efforts to sell the facility. The company plans to repurpose the site for producing recycled plastic pellets in compliance with U.S. environmental regulations.
New York: CNN Cuts 200 Jobs
CNN has announced a 6% reduction in its workforce, impacting 200 employees, mainly producers and editors. The network is shifting focus to its digital platforms and developing a news streaming service to meet changing audience demands.
Washington: Layoffs at Amazon and Starbucks
Amazon plans to lay off 200 corporate employees, primarily in data engineering and merchandising, to improve efficiency. Starbucks is also downsizing corporate staff but assured that barista roles remain unaffected. CEO Brian Niccol cited the company’s complex structure as a challenge.
California: Stripe Reduces Workforce
California-based tech company Stripe laid off 300 employees, mostly in engineering and product roles. Despite the cuts, Stripe aims to expand its workforce to 10,000 employees by year’s end.
Implications and Next Steps
These layoffs present challenges for President Trump, who campaigned on job creation and economic growth. While corporate decisions drive these cuts, the administration faces pressure to fulfill its employment promises amid a shifting economic landscape.
Javier Loya, the chairman of OTC Group and part owner of the Houston Texans, shared his incredible journey from a young football enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. His story highlights the power of hard work, perseverance, and the deep impact of supporting communities, especially through education and diversity initiatives.
From El Paso to the NFL
Loya’s love for football began in his hometown of El Paso, Texas. Like many young boys in the state, he was introduced to the sport early, and it quickly became a central part of his life. For him, football wasn’t just a game—it was a way of life.
“For us, it was a unique experience because football was a means for us to get an education,” Loya recalls. He later went on to play football at Columbia University.
While Loya dreamed of going pro, he soon realized that making it to the NFL was a steep climb. As he progressed in his career, he understood the importance of education and the role football played in securing his future beyond the field.
The Entrepreneurial Leap
In 1994, Loya took a bold step into the business world. With an interest in commodities and natural gas, he saw an opportunity in the deregulation of the natural gas market. He moved to Houston and, with two partners, founded a natural gas brokerage firm.
“We were excited about it, probably naive about the risks, but we had the drive and the right opportunity,” Loya admits.
That early venture grew rapidly, and after 25 years, OTC Group employs over 500 people, becoming a significant player in the energy sector. For Loya, this success was built on the lessons of discipline and hard work instilled in him by his parents.
“My parents taught me the value of a dollar, the value of hard work, and the importance of discipline,” he says.
“These values are the backbone of both my personal and business life.”
Breaking Barriers in the NFL
As a part-owner of the Houston Texans, Loya is proud to be the first Latino owner in the NFL.
“I’m honored to be the first, but I hope I’m the first of many,” he says.
Being the first Latino NFL owner is a point of pride, but Loya also views it as a milestone for the broader Latino community. He hopes that in time, more opportunities will open up for minority communities to achieve ownership stakes in the NFL and other professional leagues.
“Football is a very competitive and exclusive world, but I believe it’s only a matter of time before more Latino and minority owners emerge,” Loya explains. He sees this as a natural progression of growing wealth and influence in America’s minority communities.
Giving Back to the Community
Loya’s commitment to supporting his community is as strong as his business acumen. His dedication to education, especially for underprivileged youth, is a central part of his philanthropic work. He has long been involved with LULAC, which aims to empower the Latino community through education and advocacy. Loya’s first exposure to LULAC came when his father, who had been unjustifiably fired, sought their assistance.
“It was my first connection to LULAC, and later, when I bought into the Texans, I was grateful for their support in helping to open up the ownership group,” he shares.
Recently, Loya made a significant donation to LULAC, supporting their 90th anniversary celebration. He hopes his contribution will further the organization’s mission to educate and uplift the next generation of Latino leaders. Loya’s belief in education extends beyond LULAC.
His support of programs like the Houston Showcase and the El Paso Showcase—which helps local students secure academic scholarships—shows his commitment to expanding opportunities for youth from all backgrounds.
The Power of Education and Entrepreneurship
When asked about advice for young entrepreneurs, Loya emphasizes the importance of both passion and hard work.
“Follow your passion, but also do what you’re good at,” he advises. He encourages young people to seek out internships, shadow others, and always be willing to learn.
“Education doesn’t stop,” he adds. “Even as an entrepreneur, you have to continue educating yourself, studying the competition, and staying on top of market trends.”
A Legacy of Giving Back
“We live in a welcoming city like Houston, which has a strong Latino presence. There are so many great stories here, and I’m just one of many. We all have the ability to succeed, and I encourage everyone to follow their dreams and work hard to see them through.”
Through his business success, football ownership, and commitment to giving back, Loya has become an inspiring role model for the Latino community and beyond. His journey from a young football player in El Paso to a major player in business and philanthropy shows what’s possible with dedication, passion, and a desire to make a difference.
Loya’s story is more than just about football or business success—it’s about creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and lifting up others along the way. His contributions to education, his commitment to diversity in ownership, and his ongoing efforts to support the community serve as a reminder that when we help others rise, we all rise together. As Loya says,
“If it’s a level playing field, our community will perform. We just need to give them the opportunity.”
