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1968 Rock Song, With 21-Year-Old Singer Linda Ronstadt, Is Still a Powerful Hit 58 Years Later

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 11:14pm

Before Linda Ronstadt became one of the defining voices of 1970s rock, she was turning heads as the lead singer of the Stone Poneys.

One of the group's most memorable recordings, "Up to My Neck in High Muddy Water," arrived in March 1968, when Ronstadt was just 21 years old. Released several months before her 22nd birthday that July, the energetic rock song showcased the confidence and vocal power that would soon propel her to solo stardom.

"I never wanted to be anything but a singer," Ronstadt told Route Magazine. I thought that I would be singing at pizza parlors or Holiday Inns, or something like that. As long as I could make a living as a singer… I didn’t have an ambition when I started.

The song followed the success of the Stone Poneys' breakthrough hit, "Different Drum."

Written by Pete Gernhard and Terry Garthwaite, "Up to My Neck in High Muddy Water" leaned into a grittier rock sound than its predecessor. The driving guitars and upbeat tempo provided the perfect backdrop for Ronstadt's commanding vocal performance, highlighting her ability to move effortlessly between folk, country, and rock influences.

Although it didn't match the commercial success of "Different Drum," the song became an important milestone in Ronstadt's early career.

It demonstrated that she was far more than an interpreter of gentle folk-pop, revealing a rock edge that would become increasingly prominent throughout the 1970s. Her ability to bring both power and emotion to the performance hinted at the remarkable versatility that would later define her solo recordings.

"Music to me is always a work in progress, and things are frozen, especially in the early stages when I’m just learning it, just climbing around in the rigging and trying to check out the architecture of the song," Ronstadt told Best Classic Bands. "Then we’d play it night after night and refine it, and I’d learn how to really phrase and I’d be flying around without even thinking about it, like it was nothing."

The track also arrived during a period of rapid artistic growth.

Still only 21, Ronstadt was establishing herself as one of the most promising young singers in American music. Within just a few years, she would embark on a solo career that produced classics such as "You're No Good," "When Will I Be Loved," and "Blue Bayou," earning multiple Grammy Awards and becoming one of the best-selling female artists of her generation.

For longtime fans, however, "Up to My Neck in High Muddy Water" remains a treasured glimpse of where it all began.

Its infectious energy and Ronstadt's unmistakable voice have helped the song endure as one of the standout recordings from the Stone Poneys era, continuing to earn appreciation from listeners discovering her earliest work.

Fifty-eight years after its release, "Up to My Neck in High Muddy Water" still captures the excitement of a young Linda Ronstadt on the verge of greatness. Featuring the future rock legend at just 21 years old, the song remains a powerful reminder of the extraordinary talent that would soon make her one of music's biggest stars.

Related: 1975 Rock Song, Covered by Linda Ronstadt, Is Still a Motivational Hit 51 Years Later

Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1876 on Saturday, August 8, 2026

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 11:04pm

Solving today's NYT Wordle answer requires you to be in the know. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including ConnectionsConnections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1876 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There is one vowel and one sometimes-vowel in today's five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is:Information often shared in confidence.

OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1876 on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Saturday, August 8, 2026, is PRIVY.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn't Used Yet (Updated Daily)

Country Star Morgan Wallen Makes Billboard Chart History With No. 1 Hit

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 11:02pm

Morgan Wallen has made Billboard Country Airplay history with “I Can’t Love You Anymore,” his duet with Ella Langley, becoming the first artist in the chart’s 36-year history to reach No. 1 in back-to-back weeks with different songs as a lead act.

The song, credited to Langley and Wallen, moved from No. 2 to No. 1 on the Aug. 15-dated Billboard Country Airplay chart in its 15th week. According to Billboard, the track earned 33.4 million audience impressions from July 31 through Aug. 6.

The new No. 1 also gives Langley her fifth Country Airplay leader and Wallen his 22nd.

Morgan Wallen performs the song "'98 Braves" at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia.

Photo by Christopher Polk/Penske Media via Getty Images

The achievement came one week after Wallen’s “Don’t We” spent two weeks at the top of the chart. With “I Can’t Love You Anymore” now taking over the No. 1 spot, Wallen has become the first act to lead consecutive weeks with different songs while receiving lead-artist credit on both.

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The milestone is only the third time in Billboard Country Airplay history that an artist has led consecutive weeks with different songs.

Tim McGraw first accomplished the feat in 2002. His “The Cowboy in Me” followed Jo Dee Messina’s “Bring on the Rain,” which was officially billed as featuring McGraw because he provided background vocals.

Wallen had previously matched the broader chart record in 2024. “Cowgirls,” featuring ERNEST, replaced Post Malone’s “I Had Some Help,” featuring Wallen, after Malone’s song spent four weeks at No. 1.

The latest achievement adds another major chart record to Wallen’s current run.

His album I’m the Problem has returned to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 for its 14th non-consecutive week. The album originally debuted at No. 1 in May 2025 and has remained in the Billboard 200’s top 10 since its release.

The album’s return to the top follows the conclusion of Wallen’s Still the Problem Tour, which included 23 sold-out shows across 12 stadiums.

During the tour, Wallen became the first artist to perform two consecutive nights at Michigan Stadium. According to American Songwriter, he also became the first artist to play a concert at Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium in 43 years, following Hank Williams Jr.’s 1983 performance there.

Wallen also released “Been By Now,” his first solo release of the year. The song debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and opened at No. 1 on both the Streaming Songs and Digital Songs Sales charts.

His current chart success extends beyond his solo releases. “I Can’t Love You Anymore” with Langley is another top-five hit, while “You Proof” has earned Diamond certification from the RIAA. The certification gives Wallen six Diamond-certified singles, maintaining his record for the most Diamond-certified singles by any country artist.

The success of Wallen and Langley also comes as country music continues to grow in the United States and around the world. Luminate’s 2026 data showed Wallen’s I’m the Problem and Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” among the leading music releases of the year.

For Wallen, though, the latest Country Airplay result stands on its own as a major piece of Billboard history. With “Don’t We” followed immediately by “I Can’t Love You Anymore,” he has now set a record for consecutive Country Airplay No. 1s with different songs as a lead act.

Related: Country Star Announces New Album 'No Brakes' Amid 2026 World Tour

This Classic 1950s Comic Strip Inspired the Sweetest Serving Tray on Sale at Macy's

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 10:45pm

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Who doesn’t have a soft spot for the Peanuts gang? Since first appearing in newspapers in 1950, Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the crew have become some of the most recognizable characters in pop culture, finding their way from comic strips into collectibles, clothing, and home decor. Whether you grew up watching the classic specials or just can’t resist Snoopy’s charm, these characters continue to make everyday items a little more fun.

Now, Macy’s is making it easier to add that cheerful charm to your table with the Lenox Peanuts Hors d'oeuvres Tray, currently 40% off and marked down from $82 to just $49. Designed with the beloved characters at the center, this serving piece is an adorable addition to your hostingware, whether you’re setting out snacks for a movie night, serving appetizers at a gathering, or using it as a nostalgic decor accent in your kitchen.

Lenox Peanuts Hors d'oeuvres Tray, $49 (was $82) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

Called “absolutely adorable,” “too cute,” and “versatile for any time of the year” by Macy's shoppers, this tray’s design is winning over fans. Across the center, nearly the entire Peanuts gang gathers around Snoopy's iconic red doghouse, creating a scene that feels lifted straight from Charles M. Schulz's beloved comic strip. Snoopy sits proudly atop the roof while Woodstock flutters nearby mid-flight, adding a sense of movement to the illustration.

Gathered below are familiar favorites including Lucy, Linus hugging his signature blue security blanket, Charlie Brown in his instantly recognizable yellow zigzag shirt, Franklin in his bright red jacket, Sally with her oversized yellow bow and pink polka-dot dress, Patty in her green striped top, and Schroeder seated beside the doghouse. Their varied poses — standing, chatting, sitting cross-legged, and looking toward one another — give the tray the feeling of a candid neighborhood get-together, while the clean ivory porcelain background and thin black border let the colorful artwork remain the focal point.

Measuring 14 inches long by 7.75 inches wide, the generously sized porcelain tray is ideal for serving hors d'oeuvres, cookies, finger sandwiches, pastries, or a lineup of cheeses and crackers when entertaining. The elongated silhouette also makes it just as useful as a decorative catchall on a coffee table, entryway console, or kitchen island for corralling keys, mail, candles, or seasonal décor. Crafted from durable porcelain, it's both dishwasher- and microwave-safe, making cleanup just as effortless as serving. 

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Macy’s shoppers couldn’t get enough of this “darling,” “high-quality” piece with its “bright” and “cheery” colors. One reviewer wrote, “The graphics are beautiful [and] the size is generous.”

Another Peanuts fan agreed, saying the design “brings back good memories” and has “so many of the characters included.”

Related: Dolly Parton's Charming New Walmart Line Has a $20 Garden-Inspired Serving Tray That's Perfect for Hosting

Consider your snack spread officially upgraded. Shop the Lenox Peanuts Hors d'oeuvres Tray at Macy’s for $49 while it’s 40% off!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

'Queen of Country Pop' Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 24 Years After No. 1 Hit ‘Up’

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 10:40pm

Shania Twain is back on the Billboard 200 more than two decades after her album Up! ruled the chart.

Twain’s new album, Little Miss Twain, debuts at No. 131 on the latest Billboard 200, giving the country-pop superstar a new chart entry in 2026. The album has also made an impact in her native Canada, where it opens at No. 20 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart.

The new chart appearance comes 24 years after Up! became Twain’s first No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 in 2002.

Little Miss Twain, released July 24, takes Twain back to the years before she became an international star. The album looks at her childhood in Timmins, Ontario, her early days as a young performer and the musical influences that helped shape her career.

Shania Twain performs during an intimate show for fans at The Shacklewell Arms on June 6, 2026 in London, England.

Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for ABA

The project is a personal look at the woman behind the famous name.

Twain told Billboard Canada that much of the album deals with subjects she would not normally write about as a commercial songwriter. “Everyone knows the international recording artist Shania Twain, but who was I before that?”

That question sits at the heart of Little Miss Twain.

The No. 131 Billboard 200 debut adds another chart chapter to Twain’s long career.

According to the Billboard 200 history provided, Twain has earned two No. 1 albums, 11 charting titles and six Top 10 albums on the chart.

Her first No. 1 came with Up!, which debuted in December 2002 and spent 15 weeks at its peak position. The album remained on the Billboard 200 for 93 weeks.

Before Up!, Twain had already changed the sound of country music with her pop crossover style.

Her 1995 album The Woman in Me reached No. 5 on the Billboard 200 and stayed on the chart for 107 weeks. Her 1997 blockbuster Come On Over peaked at No. 2 and spent 151 weeks on the chart. Greatest Hits also reached No. 2.

Twain later returned to No. 1 with Now in 2017. That album became her second Billboard 200 chart-topper.

Now, nearly a decade after Now and 24 years after Up!, Little Miss Twain gives the singer another Billboard 200 entry.

The new album also continues a strong run for Twain in Canada. Little Miss Twain debuts at No. 20 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart, following her 2023 album Queen of Me, which opened at No. 2.

Little Miss Twain is Twain’s seventh studio album and centers on her life before she became one of country music’s biggest stars.

Before Shania Twain became a global name, she was Eilleen Regina Twain, a young singer from northern Ontario who performed in local bars and dreamed of building a life in music.

Little Miss Twain includes collaborations with Tanya Tucker, Josh Homme, The War and Treaty, Ronnie Wood and T Bone Burnett, among others.

Another track, “Faded Blue Jeans,” features Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme. Twain has connected the song to a pair of jeans she has had since she was a teenager.

The album also includes “Northern Town,” which draws from everyday memories of Twain's childhood, and “Stranger Things,” a song built around the sound of a chugging train.

The Woman in Me, Come On Over and Up! helped transform Twain into one of the biggest female artists in country music. Her crossover sound brought country music to a much wider pop audience.

The new release also comes after another major period in Twain's career. She toured behind Queen of Me, completed a Las Vegas residency and performed major shows in the United States, Canada and Europe.

Twain also joined Harry Styles for more than 12 dates on the European leg of his world tour in London and Amsterdam.

With Little Miss Twain, Twain is not simply revisiting her biggest hits. She is looking further back, toward the young singer who existed before the fame.

Related: 1980 Hit, Written by Dolly Parton, Ranked Among 'Best Movie Soundtrack Songs' of All Time

1976 Rock Song, Which Almost Got Rush Dropped, Is Still a Prog Landmark 50 Years Later

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 10:23pm

One of rock's biggest bands almost got dropped by their music label while creating one monumental song that would become a key part of their legacy.

The band Rush faced a tough situation after their 1975 album, Caress of Steel, didn't perform as well as expected. While considering their next steps, the band's record label, Mercury Records, encouraged them to move towards a more radio-friendly sound for the next album.

Instead, they did the opposite, making the ambitious concept album 2112. The album's centerpiece is the title track, a 20-minute song with a complex story and intense rock sound.

But Rush knew how much of a risk it was to make the album. "It could have spelled the end for us," Alex Lifeson told NPR in an interview. "To me it was impossible to take a step backwards and do something we'd already done just to please a record company."

According to the liner notes included with the 2112 40th anniversary album, Rush's manager, Ray Danniels, had to personally fly to Chicago to convince the label to give the band one more chance in the form of the next album.

He hadn't heard any of the music himself yet, but he told Mercury Records, as Lifeson recalled, "You guys are going to love this next record. The guys are back on track."

Related: Rock Legend Who Created One of the "Greatest Albums of All Time" Turns 73

2112 came out in March 1976, and thankfully, music fans recognized the genius of the song and album. It was Rush's first commercial success, with the album peaking on the Billboard album chart at No. 61.

Along with "2112," other songs on the album included "The Twilight Zone," "Tears," "Something for Nothing," "Lessons," and "A Passage to Bangkok."

While fans love the entire album, decades after it was released, "2112" is still the standout. Parts of the song have been performed a lot over the years, but during the 2026 reunion tour, Rush finally played it in its entirety again for the first time in almost 30 years.

Related: Rush's Geddy Lee Gives One-Word Answer to New Music Question Amid Sold-Out Tour

1995 Rock Song, Written by Iconic Supergroup Mad Season, Is Still a Generational Hit 31 Years Later

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 10:21pm

Mad Season, the Seattle grunge supergroup, delivered the rock classic “Wake Up,” which remains a generational hit and continues to introduce the band to new listeners.

Named one of the best supergroups in music history byLouder Sound, the band, composed of members from Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Screaming Trees and The Walkabouts, released the hauntingly beautiful track on its sole studio album, Above.

As the hypnotic seven-minute opening track, “Wake Up” draws heavily on lead singer Layne Staley’s own struggles of waking up from his heroin addiction, according to Songfacts.

Serving as a battle cry against his drug dependency, the lyrics “Wake up, young man, It’s time to wake up. Your love affair has got to go. For ten long years. For ten long years, the leaves to rake up. Slow suicide's no way to go,” confront the destructive hold of addiction on his life.

Layne Staley of Mad Season and Alice in Chains in 1993.

Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images

Comparing this to an unhealthy relationship, the addiction had become something emotionally consuming and difficult to let go of.

Despite “Wake Up” never being released as a commercial single, with “River of Deceit” serving as the band’s only charting radio hit, the song was considered the ultimate deep cut for Mad Season.

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Reddit users expressed how the song was not only a fan favorite but also a deeply personal and emotional experience for many listeners.

“This song resonates with me like crazy. Never been an addict but the daughter of two, d–n. Makes me cry every time I listen to it,” one wrote.

“This song is so powerful!!! It was played at his funeral. Layne just wanted everyone to learn from his experiences, and wake up from the illusion that you can escape an addiction,” another added.

With some calling it a “hidden gem” of Mad Season, commenters also praised the song for its meaningful and dramatic musical approach.

“SOOOOO GOOOD. This is by far one of my favorite tracks of all time, off of one of my favorite albums of all time. So soulful, expressive, dramatic all at the same time,” a Reddit user remarked.

“I absolutely love this song. Layne Staley is one of the best singers of all time,” a fan echoed.

More than three decades later, Mad Season’s “Wake Up” stands as more than just a monument to the 1990s grunge movement, but it also remains a generational hit that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release.

Related: 1980 Rock Classic by ‘Prince of Darkness’ Ozzy Osbourne Hits 1 Billion Streams 46 Years After Release

Wendy's Worker Is Headed to Yale After His Managers Made an Extraordinary Promise

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 10:14pm

Sometimes, all it takes is someone believing in you.

A Massachusetts Wendy's employee who once worked behind the counter to help support himself is now headed to Yale University after two of his managers made an extraordinary promise that changed the course of his life.

Thalles De Souza shared his inspiring story on Good Morning America on August 7, explaining that he began working at Wendy's while attending high school simply to make ends meet. At the time, he assumed the job would be temporary before moving into construction to earn more money for college. 

Instead, his managers, Usama El-Sehrawey and Terry Smily, had another idea.

"I said, 'You need to work hard, but if you stay with us at Wendy's, we will make sure you'll be able to go to college,'" El-Sehrawey recalled on GMA. For every hour De Souza worked, the managers quietly set aside money to help pay for his education

Credit: CBS/Good Morning America

"It changed my whole perspective about life and about what I could actually do because someone believed in me," De Souza said. 

The scholarship helped him attend Cape Cod Community College, where he excelled academically before continuing his education, and eventually applying to Yale.

This fall, De Souza will enroll at the Ivy League university, where he plans to major in political science with a minor in human rights as he works toward becoming a lawyer — and possibly entering public service one day. 

His former managers say they always knew he had the potential.

"We saw a bright future in him, and so we wanted to help in any way we can," Smily said. 

To celebrate the milestone, De Souza posted an emotional video to Instagram capturing the moment he learned he had been accepted to Yale.

"I just couldn't control the emotions," he said. "Every single night that I slept at 3 in the morning to do homework, it was worth every second." 

Stanley Tucci Reveals the Surprising New Destination for His Hit Food Series

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 9:56pm

After spending years eating his way across Italy, Stanley Tucci is setting the table somewhere new.

The Emmy-nominated actor and host has revealed that the next season of his acclaimed travel series Tucci In Italy will take viewers to the United Kingdom, where he has lived for nearly 15 years. Speaking on Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast on August 7, Tucci said the decision came from wanting to showcase a side of British cuisine that many people overlook.

"I wanted to do the U.K. because I just feel like there's so much here," Tucci said. "I'm not just talking about fancy restaurants... the produce, the seafood, the meat... the devoted people like fishermen, cheesemakers and farmers. That kind of stuff is amazing." 

The move marks a notable shift for the series, which has built its reputation exploring Italy's distinct regional cuisines and culinary traditions. While Italy remains close to Tucci's heart, he believes Britain has its own remarkable food culture that's worthy of the spotlight.
The actor also said filming the series has given him a deep appreciation for the people behind the food.

Stanley Tucci

Courtesy of Williams Sonoma


"I think that the produce that’s here — the seafood that’s here, the meat that’s here, the devoted people like these fishermen or lobstermen, or a guy who raises pigs that will be like the best pork you’ll ever eat — that kind of stuff is amazing. And then, really amazing chefs that are devoted to farm-to-table or farm-to-fork, I guess is the new expression.” 

The announcement comes as Tucci in Italy is once again in the Emmy conversation, earning another nomination for Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special. Tucci's previous CNN series, Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy, won three Emmy Awards before the actor partnered with National Geographic for the current incarnation.

In addition to filming the new season, Tucci is also staying busy on the acting front with upcoming projects, including The Devil Wears Prada 2, while continuing to balance his work behind the camera with life at home in London. 

1973 Iconic Ballad, With 23-Year-Old Singer of Styx, Is Still a Powerful Love Song 53 Years Later

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 9:48pm

Before Styx became one of the biggest rock bands of the late '70s and early '80s, Dennis DeYoung wrote a love song for the woman he'd known since he was a teenager.

That song was "Lady," the soaring ballad that appeared on the band's second studio album, Styx II, in 1973. DeYoung, who was 23 when the song was released, wrote the song for his wife, Suzanne, whom he had met at a high school dance years earlier. The couple married in 1970.

More than five decades later, "Lady" remains one of Styx's signature songs, as well as an early example of the power-ballad formula that would become a rock-radio staple.

"Lady" was the first song DeYoung ever wrote for Suzanne, but another first helped give the recording its distinctive sound.

DeYoung later recalled in an interview with Contemporary Keyboard magazine that he had written "Lady" on an electric piano. When Styx arrived at the studio to record it, however, he spotted an acoustic piano and decided to try playing the song on it. He liked what he heard enough to use the instrument on the finished recording. Remarkably, DeYoung said he had never played an acoustic piano before that session.

The result begins relatively gently before guitars and drums dramatically kick in, establishing the quiet-to-loud construction that would become a hallmark of Styx's music. Louder later included "Lady" at No. 26 on its list of the greatest power ballads of all time, calling it "one of the first-ever power ballads."

"'Lady' begins quietly with wafting keyboards and faint windchime jingles. Dennis DeYoung’s squeaky vocals are something of an acquired taste, but then the all-important ‘crunch’ arrives about halfway through – cue guitar pyrotechnics and a marching rhythm par excellence," wrote the outlet.

But in 1973, hardly anyone outside Styx's hometown of Chicago seemed to notice.

Originally released as a single from Styx II in September 1973, "Lady" received little promotion and initially failed to make the national charts.

Its fortunes changed thanks to Chicago radio.

After WLS DJ Jeff Davis heard the song playing on a jukebox at a pizza place on Chicago's North Side, he began championing it on the powerful station. "Lady" caught on locally and eventually spread to radio stations around the country.

The extraordinarily slow burn paid off. Nearly two years after Styx II was released, "Lady" climbed all the way to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March 1975. Its success helped send Styx II gold and gave the band the breakthrough it had been waiting for.

Billboard later ranked "Lady" as the No. 5 song in Styx's catalog, describing it as the "prototype" for the band's signature arrangement of a quiet beginning followed by an explosive rock payoff.

DeYoung went on to write and sing seven of Styx's eight Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including "Come Sail Away," "The Best of Times," "Mr. Roboto" and the band's only No. 1 single, "Babe."

But "Lady" came first: a love song written for his wife that initially went nowhere, only to become the record that helped transform Styx from a Chicago band into national rock stars.

Related: 1977 Fleetwood Mac Smash, Called the 'Most Iconic Breakup Album of All Time,' Is Finally Giving Up Its Secrets

NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Saturday, August 8, 2026

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 9:45pm

Today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle covers a wide range of topics, including common orders at restaurants, musical theory, and milk options.

Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can’t forget about the NYT’s The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Saturday, August 8, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Saturday, August 8, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Five lines on sheet musicHINT: Starts with the letter "S"

6 Across: Material for the Venus de Milo and Michelangelo's David —HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

7 Across: Bird that helps to rescue Nemo in "Finding Nemo" — HINT: Starts with the letter "P"

8 Across: ___ milk — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"

9 Across: Pal — HINT: Ends with the letter "D"

10 Across: Collective way of singing — HINT: Starts with the letter "U"

12 Across: Metal container that's a synonym for "insignificant" — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

13 Across: "Rare" order at a restaurant — HINT: Ends with the letter "K"

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Square cracker — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

2 Down: Three: Prefix — HINT: Ends with the letter "I"

3 Down: What often starts with an apple and ends with a zebra — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

4 Down: Show off — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

5 Down: Ward (off) — HINT: Starts with the letter "F"

6 Down: Be sincere — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

7 Down: Throws a hissy-fit — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

11 Down: Destination for a mother-daughter day, perhaps — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Saturday, August 8, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Five lines on sheet music — STAFF

6 Across: Material for the Venus de Milo and Michelangelo's David —MARBLE

7 Across: Bird that helps to rescue Nemo in "Finding Nemo" — PELICAN

8 Across: ___ milk — OAT

9 Across: Pal — BUD

10 Across: Collective way of singing — UNISON

12 Across: Metal container that's a synonym for "insignificant" — TINPOT

13 Across: "Rare" order at a restaurant — STEAK

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Square cracker — SALTINE

2 Down: Three: Prefix — TRI

3 Down: What often starts with an apple and ends with a zebra — ABCBOOK

4 Down: Show off — FLAUNT

5 Down: Ward (off) — FEND

6 Down: Be sincere — MEANIT

7 Down: Throws a hissy-fit — POUTS

11 Down: Destination for a mother-daughter day, perhaps — SPA

Related: 5 'Outdated' Cooking Rules Your Grandmother Swore By That Chefs Actually Still Use Today

Ana Luisa’s ‘Dainty’ Crystal Huggie Earrings Capture the Essence of ‘Minimalist Chic,’ Now on Sale at Nordstrom

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 9:15pm

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While statement pieces are eye-catching, minimalist jewelry pieces are a staple for accessorizing. They’re easy to wear, effortless to style, and add just the right amount of flair while still feeling understated. Case in point: these Ana Luisa Nate Pave Huggie Hoop Earrings at Nordstrom. Whether you’re wearing athleisure, streetwear, or a sundress, they’ll effortlessly complement your ensemble, making it look intentional and elegant. 

Ideal for everyday wear, these huggie earrings are the definition of versatility. If you’re looking to get your hands on a pair, right now is the best time because they’re currently on sale for 33% off during Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale, which runs until Aug. 9. Normally retailing for $85, they’re now marked down to just $57 for a few more days! 

Ana Luisa Nate Pave Huggie Hoop Earrings, $57 (were $85) at Nordstrom

Courtesy of Nordstrom

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Featuring a sleek gold huggie hoop, these earrings exude quiet luxury. They have a tapered silhouette, boasting a wide base that subtly narrows upwards. The front of the hoops is adorned with pave-set cubic zirconia crystals, giving them a touch of glamour. These crystals are a great affordable alternative to diamonds, mimicking their brilliance and clarity. Faceted with multiple flat surfaces, the cubic zirconia crystals catch light from various angles and sparkle. 

Made of sterling silver, a hypoallergenic metal, these earrings are ideal for those with sensitive skin. They’re plated with 14-karat gold, giving them a shiny, polished finish with a luxe yellow hue. These earrings are tarnish-free and water-resistant, so they should remain in pristine condition for a while if properly cared for. 

Designed for convenience and easy wearability, these huggies have a hinge closure with a post insert. Unlike earrings with butterfly backings that are easy to lose and hard to insert, the closure is built into the frame for peace of mind. Once you insert the posts into your piercings, you just have to snap the earrings into place. 

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These lightweight earrings are comfortable to wear. A Nordstrom shopper with sensitive ears attested to this, noting that they’ve worn them for over a week and forgot that they had them on. They also noted that they were able to shower and sleep with them on without any issues. 

“They are very pretty and exude minimalist chic vibes,” one reviewer said. “It is very easy to pair them with most of my outfits and other accessories.” Another shopper described them as “very dainty and comfortable” and said that they’re “nice for everyday wear.” A few shoppers stated that they thought these earrings would have been larger, but they have a 0.5-inch drop, dangling right below the lobes, which is actually an ideal size for everyday earrings. 

Related: Macy’s Sparkly $7 Gold Pavé Hoop Earrings Make Everyday Outfits Look More Expensive

Striking a balance between elegant and understated, the Ana Luisa Nate Pave Huggie Hoop Earrings are an easy choice for nearly any occasion. Head to Nordstrom and score them on sale for just $57 during the retailer's Anniversary Sale. Be sure to hurry because this deal will only last until Aug. 9! 

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Vince Neil’s Awkward Two-Word Message to Suggestive Bot Has Fans Cringing

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 9:10pm

Vince Neil's latest social media interaction has the internet experiencing some serious secondhand embarrassment.

The Mötley Crüe frontman is getting roasted online after leaving a very public two-word message for an NSFW account that appears to be an AI bot posting sensitive adult content.

The interaction happened on Threads on Friday, August 7, where Neil responded to a post from an account using the handle @alicia750497 with a simple “hi love.” While that message might not raise eyebrows on its own, a look at the risqué account behind it quickly lit up social media.

The user's profile is filled with posts labeled as sensitive adult content and appears to feature an AI-generated woman rather than a real person. The 65-year-old’s reply had remained live for at least three hours as of the time of writing, so it’s safe to say it gave social media users plenty of time to react.

A screen shot of Vince Neil's Threads account on August 7.

“vincent mi boy the girls girls girls are not supposed to be generated via data center 😭,” one fan replied.

“Dr. Feelgood please help him,” joked another.

“oh no, grandpa vince 😐,” said a third, while a fourth wrote, “Vince, my brother…”

So far, Neil hasn't publicly addressed his Threads interaction. 

READ MORE: Legendary ‘80s Rock Band Slammed Over New Concert Intro Video

This isn’t the first time artificial intelligence has put Mötley Crüe at the center of an online conversation this week.

The band faced criticism a few days ago after videos from its ongoing 2026 North American Carnival of Sins Tour showed a new concert intro that many fans suspected was AI-generated. The eerie sequence features a menacing clown welcoming the crowd before declaring, “The only prizes you’ll win tonight are nightmares.” Its glossy, uncanny visuals led viewers to speculate that artificial intelligence had been used to create the opener, though Mötley Crüe has not confirmed how the footage was made.

The band's 33-date tour kicked off in July and celebrates both Mötley Crüe's 45th anniversary and 20 years since its original Carnival of Sins tour. 

1989 Phil Collins Single, the 'Worst Song Ever About Homelessness,' Became the Last No. 1 Hit of the '80s

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 8:58pm

If you ever watched MTV or turned on the radio during the '80s, then you know Phil Collins was pretty much inescapable. After all, the man had a whopping seven #1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including "One More Night" and "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)," not to mention a bunch of other super popular songs in the Top 20.

Considering what a major presence Collins was on the '80s charts, it's only fitting that one of his songs was the last #1 hit of the entire decade...as well as the last #1 hit of his career.

Released as the first single from Collins' 1989 solo album ...But Seriously, "Another Day in Paradise" was inspired by an encounter he had with an unhoused mother of two children on the street.

"I felt awkward," Collins admitted, per Stereogum. "I didn't ignore her, but at the same time, I didn't stop and give her some money."

The lyrics describe the uncomfortable interaction:

She calls out to the man on the street
"Sir, can you help me?
It's cold, and I've nowhere to sleep
Is there somewhere you can tell me?"
He walks on, doesn't look back
He pretends he can't hear her
Starts to whistle as he crosses the street
Seems embarrassed to be there

At the time, Collins was frustrated with the "middle-of-the-road balladeer" he felt he'd been branded with after producing such pop-infused hits as "Two Hearts" and hoped that "Another Day in Paradise" would prove he was capable of taking on heavier topics. Unfortunately, while the song was a commercial success (obviously, since it went to #1), Collins experienced some significant backlash from those who felt the wealthy celebrity wasn't qualified to sing about poverty.

Collins attempted to defend himself, telling the Times, "When I drive down the street, I see the same things everyone else sees. It's a misconception that if you have a lot of money you're somehow out of touch with reality." 

Related: '80s Rock Icon, 74, Hints at First New Music in Decades Following Health Struggles

He went on to point out that he wasn't even trying to write about homelessness, explaining that he was just playing around on the piano at the time.

"I decided to see what would happen when I started singing. When I began, the words just came out, 'She calls out to the man on the street.' I didn't set out to write a song about the homeless. Those were just the words I happened to sing," he explained.

In the years since, critical opinion hasn't particularly softened towards "Another Day in Paradise." In 2007, Blender said Collins "wrote the worst song ever about homelessness." A few years later, in 2010, David Sheppard of the BBC called the song "cringe-worthy," citing it as one of the times Collins "painted the bull's-eye on his own forehead." And in 2016, Mark Beaumont of NME slammed "Another Day in Paradise" as "arguably the corniest multi-millionaire-notices-homelessness-from-gold-plated-limousine ballad ever recorded."

Even if "Another Day in Paradise" was the last #1 for Collins, it certainly wasn't his last hit, so it apparently didn't do much to tarnish his legacy. Plus, at the time of this writing, the song has 871,575,578 streams on Spotify alone. (Another day in paradise, indeed.)

Related: 1984 No. 1 Breakup Anthem Inspired by Real-Life Heartbreak Is Still Making Us Cry 42 Years Later

Rush's Geddy Lee Gives One-Word Answer to New Music Question Amid Sold-Out Tour

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 8:26pm

While Rush fans are loving everything about the ongoing Fifty Something reunion tour, they just got some unfortunate news from Geddy Lee. In a new interview, he was asked about the possibility of new music from the current lineup of the band. But the answer wasn't what fans hoped for.

Lee spoke with Chile's Radio Futuro, transcribed by Blabbermouth.net, and talked about how much hard work and time went into the 2026 tour. The interviewer then asked about new music, with Lee bluntly responding, "No."

He elaborated, "We have enough to do. We're still trying to remember the old songs and play them," noting how much work they currently have on their plate with the ambitious concerts.

Earlier in the interview, Lee talked about how much they rehearsed before the shows. He declared, "People think you can just walk up on stage and play three hours' worth of those songs. I've got news for you — even the guys that wrote those songs have to work really hard to perfect them."

Related: 1976 Rock Song, Written by Tom Petty After His First Band Fell Apart, Launched One of Rock’s Greatest Bands

They also had to give new drummer Anika Nilles the time to learn 43 songs, including plenty of very complicated drum parts.

Lee praised Nilles' dedication to the job, saying, "She's a brilliant player technically, but she's also a brilliant person, and so she understood the gravity of what she was taking on, and she's able to rise above the difficulties and deliver." Nilles took on the role of tour drummer in the wake of longtime drummer Neil Peart's death.

Rush is currently in the middle of their Fifty Something world tour, which completely sold out. They've impressed fans with every show, playing a bunch of songs that haven't been heard in years.

The tour is the band's first in 11 years. It includes over 75 stops throughout 2026 and 2027. It began in June 2026 in Inglewood, Calif., and will conclude in April 2027 with the last show in Helsinki, Finland.

Related: ’70s Rock Legends Perform Their 20-Minute Rock Epic for the First Time in Almost 30 Years

1967 Iconic Ballad, With 21-Year-Old Singer of The Monkees, Became a 4-Week No. 1 Hit

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 8:17pm

By the fall of 1967, The Monkees were already one of the biggest pop acts in the world.

Then came "Daydream Believer." Released on Oct. 25, 1967, the heartfelt ballad featured Davy Jones, who was just 21 years old when the single arrived. With its unforgettable melody and Jones' warm lead vocal, the song became one of the defining hits of the decade and one of the band's most enduring recordings.

The song came from one of pop music's most accomplished songwriters.

Written by John Stewart, a former member of the Kingston Trio, "Daydream Believer" tells the story of a romance that has settled into everyday life without losing its affection. Stewart's conversational lyrics, paired with an uplifting melody, gave The Monkees a song that balanced nostalgia with optimism.

"I remember writing 'Daydream Believer' very clearly," Stewart later shared in an interview. "For some reason I was writing songs all day, every day. It was part of a trilogy, a suburban trilogy. I remember going to be thinking, 'What a wasted day — all I’ve done is daydream.' And from there I wrote the whole song."

Jones proved to be the perfect voice for it. He delivered one of the most memorable performances of his career. His expressive voice brought warmth and sincerity to the lyrics, helping transform the song into an instant audience favorite.

"As we sing it, there's a line, 'Now, you know how happy I can be,'" drummer Mickey Dolenz later recalled. "John wrote, 'Now, you know how funky I can be.' But the music department said, 'The Monkees are not singing the word 'funky.'' Funky meant oily, and greasy, and sexy - and they weren't going to have us say it."

Listeners responded in overwhelming fashion.

"Daydream Believer" raced to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it spent four consecutive weeks at the top. It also reached No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart and became one of the best-selling singles of The Monkees' career, further cementing the group's status as an international phenomenon.

Its popularity has endured for generations.

The song has remained a staple of oldies radio and classic pop playlists, while its optimistic spirit has led to countless appearances in films, television shows, and commercials. It has also been covered by numerous artists, though Jones' original vocal performance remains the version most closely associated with the beloved classic.

"I'm asked to get up in karaoke bars and I've sung 'Daydream Believer' because it pleases the 12 or 15 people that are there," Jones said in a 2012 interview. "Why shouldn't I? I sing it better than anybody else. I'll give them the best. Let them hear the one who did it first. It doesn't matter if there's 10 people or 10,000 people, my performance is the same. I put it right out there."

Nearly 60 years after its release, "Daydream Believer" continues to delight audiences around the world. Featuring a 21-year-old Davy Jones at the microphone, the 1967 ballad became a four-week No. 1 hit and remains one of the most cherished songs in The Monkees' remarkable catalog.

Related: 1967 Rock Song, With 21-Year-Old Singer of The Monkees, Is Still a Powerful Hit 59 Years Later

‘Days of Our Lives’ Releases Sneak Peek of John Oliver's Mystery Character Ahead of Next Week's Episodes

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 8:16pm

Late-night host John Oliver’s Days of Our Lives cameo airs next week, and Peacock just shared a sneak peek of the comedian’s magical performance. 

Oliver has a lot of asks. And most of the time, he gets a resounding yes. When he offered to rebrand a minor league baseball team, 47 teams applied (the Erie SeaWolves won the bid, becoming the Erie Moon Mammoths). When he asked fans to vote for the puteketeke as the New Zealand Bird of the Century, they did, and his feathered friend won. When he auctioned off a Bob Ross painting, he raised over $1 million for public broadcasting. And when he made an on-air plea for a role in a soap, two daytime legacies offered.

Back in March, Oliver lobbied for a cameo after doing a bit on Stephen A. Smith’s over-the-top guest spots as Brick on General Hospital.

Of course, GH answered the call and immediately cast Oliver as World Security Bureau (better known to fans of the soap as the WSB) director “Z” in a three-episode arc that aired July 2, 3, and 6, 2026. He arrived in Port Charles sporting jet-black hair, on a helicopter, with armed guards. And the late-night host even got an impressively dramatic slap from character Carly Corinthos. 

Now that his General Hospital stint is in the books, Oliver is ready to tackle his second soap role of the summer. Like GH, he will appear on three episodes of Days: August 11, 12, and 14, 2026. 

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Oliver shared a look at his performance with Access Hollywoodlast month, giving fans a glimpse at his quirky character. And yes, he wears a wig that does not disappoint yet again.

Daniel Feuerriegel, who plays EJ DiMera on the soap, told Access Hollywood, “I did not wake up going, ‘You know what, I’m going to be wearing my pajamas doing a scene with John Oliver today.’ It was not on my bingo card. But it’s just a lot of fun. And it’s just been an absolute blast to work with John.”

Now that his Days debut is less than a week away, the soap’s streaming network (Peacock) is giving fans a tiny taste of what to expect. John pops up at the end of an Instagram promo for next week’s shows, knocking on Mayor Paulina Price’s door. Price is played by iconic actress Jackée Harry

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Fans flocked to Peacock’s Instagram post, almost unable to control their excitement over Oliver’s upcoming appearance. 

“John Oliver getting his 2nd Daytime Emmy reel ready, can’t wait to see if he can top Z on GH,” wrote one fan. Others added, “I’m ready for John Oliver on his next soap” and, “What an exciting week! Of Days!” 

One super-Oliver-fan even recognized the actor from his role on Community (not his current HBO late-night series), writing, “OMGeee is that Professor Duncan from the show Community?”, as another replied, “Haha yes! Merging of my two favorite shows!”

But of course, not every Days of Our Lives fan is also a John Oliver fan (that is, yet), as evidenced by this comment: “Who’s that guy talking to Paulina, what does he want.”

1987 Hit Song, Reimagined by Ella Langley, Is Still a Powerful Hit 39 Years Later 

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 8:03pm

Country star Ella Langley has given Rick Astley’s 1987 classic “Never Gonna Give You Up” a new country sound.

The Alabama singer shared a short acoustic cover of the famous song on TikTok in January 2026. Her version slows down the original pop hit and gives it a stripped-back country feel. The clip is only 18 seconds long, but it quickly caught the attention of her fans.

Langley explained the reason behind the unexpected cover in a simple message: “Been stuck in my head all day.”

The choice of song may have surprised some fans, but “Never Gonna Give You Up” has remained one of the most recognizable songs from the 1980s. 

Rick Astley performs on stage on March 24, 1988.

Photo by Fryderyk Gabowicz/picture alliance via Getty Images

Released by Rick Astley on July 27, 1987, the song became a worldwide No. 1 hit and later found a second life online through the famous “Rickrolling” internet meme.

Langley did not try to copy Astley’s original version. Instead, she performed the song acoustically and at a slower pace, changing the feel while keeping the familiar melody.

@ellalangleymusic1

Been stuck in my head all day

♬ original sound - Ella Langley

The unexpected cover led fans to joke about being “Rick-rolled” by the country singer. The reaction is notable because “Never Gonna Give You Up” is already closely tied to internet culture. 

The song became the center of the Rickrolling meme in the late 2000s, when users tricked others into clicking links that unexpectedly opened Astley’s music video.

That internet legacy helped keep the song familiar long after its original chart run.

The official music video has now passed 1.7 billion views on YouTube. The video reached the one-billion-view mark in July 2021, making “Never Gonna Give You Up” one of the major 1980s songs to reach that milestone.

Rick Astley’s 1987 Classic Still Has a Huge Legacy

“Never Gonna Give You Up” was more than a viral joke before it became an internet meme.

The song was Astley’s debut single and the first release from his 1987 studio album Whenever You Need Somebody. Written and produced by Stock Aitken Waterman, it quickly became a major international success.

The song topped the charts in 25 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. In the U.K., it spent five weeks at No. 1 and became the best-selling single of 1987. It also reached No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in March 1988.

Its success continued beyond the charts. Astley won Best British Single at the 1988 Brit Awards, while the song later became part of the larger story of internet culture through Rickrolling.

 In 2008, he won the MTV Europe Music Award for Best Act Ever following an online campaign connected to the song’s renewed popularity, according to the song’s history.

For Langley, the cover arrives at a major point in her own career.

The singer had a huge 2025, including three CMA Awards for “you look like you love me,” her collaboration with Riley Green. She also earned her first No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart with “Choosin’ Texas.”

In 2026, her momentum has continued. Recently, Langley has continued to build her country radio success. “I Can’t Love You Anymore,” her collaboration with Morgan Wallen, reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay, giving Langley her fifth chart-topper.

Meanwhile, “Choosin’ Texas” has also continued to perform strongly in the U.K., where it reached No. 3 on the Official Singles Chart and No. 5 on the Official Streaming Chart.

For a song that has survived nearly 40 years, countless chart appearances and one of the internet’s most famous memes, Ella Langley’s country reimagining offers another reminder that “Never Gonna Give You Up” is still finding new listeners.

Related: Country Star, With No. 1 Hit Song, Announces New Song Amid 2026 Tour

Lenox’s ‘Charming’ 4-Piece Snoopy Plate Set Adds ’70s Nostalgia to the Table for Under $50

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 7:45pm

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There’s something about Snoopy that instantly makes a space feel a little more fun, and this Lenox set looks like it could have been pulled from a ’70s breakfast table. The Chef Snoopy 4-Piece Set of Accent Plates is currently $49 at Macy’s, down from $82. Each plate features Snoopy and Woodstock surrounded by colorful donuts, ice cream cones, and other treats, while the mostly black-and-white illustrations give the set a playful retro look. 

Each plate is made from porcelain and measures 8 inches in diameter, so they’re the perfect size for dessert, appetizers, or a smaller meal. They’re also both dishwasher- and microwave-safe, which means you don’t have to treat them like decorative collectibles. And while the Peanuts illustrations are the obvious reason to love them, they’re also made by Lenox, a beloved and reputable brand that’s been around for over a century.

Chef Snoopy 4-Piece Set of Accent Plates, $49 (was $82) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

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These plates would be adorable for serving ice cream, cookies, or birthday cake, but they could just as easily make toast or a sandwich more fun. The retro illustrations would fit especially well in a kitchen with vintage-inspired accessories, but you definitely don’t need a full ’70s theme to make them work.

“They are so adorable and colorful,” one shopper wrote, adding, “These plates will put a smile on anyone’s face.” Another praised their “excellent quality” and called them “so charming.” They also mentioned that “they came in a very securely packed box,” which is always reassuring when ordering porcelain dishes online.

Related: This Classic 1966 TV Special Just Inspired the Sweetest New Marshalls Decor

These are also cute enough to display when they’re not in use. The colorful Snoopy and Woodstock illustrations would look adorable stacked on open shelving or mixed in with other vintage-inspired kitchen pieces, giving them more of an edge over basic dinnerware or novelty plates that only come out for a specific holiday or occasion.

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At 40% off, now is a great time to grab these for yourself or another Snoopy fan, especially since they’d make a very cute housewarming gift. Be sure to pick up the Chef Snoopy 4-Piece Set of Accent Plates at Macy’s while the price is still just $49.

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1982 Steven Spielberg Tearjerker, Featuring One of the Saddest Movie Scenes Ever, Is Still Just as Powerful 44 Years Later

Fri, 08/07/2026 - 7:36pm

Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrialis full of tear-jerking moments from its title screen to the closing credits. But few really get the waterworks flowing like the climactic near-death scene, which Ultimate Classic Rock named one of the film’s most emotionally devastating moments for ’80s kids.

Released in June 1982, E.T. is a nostalgic classic that tells the story of Elliott, played by a young Henry Thomas, a kid whose blossoming friendship with a gentle, bottom-heavy alien becomes a life-changing event. Heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time, the gem has become one of the greatest family films of all time.

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The scene UCR calls out comes near the end of the movie, when the government’s containment effort escalates, and E.T. is taken into custody, where scientists attempt to examine him. Now separated from Elliott, his health rapidly deteriorates, with his body color turning a pale white signaling his life force is fading. At the same time, Elliott’s health begins to fade as we learn the two are sharing the same vital energy.

“To make matters worse, Elliott whispers, ‘I love you,’ to what appears to be a dead body. For kids in the theater, this was intense,” UCR writes. “I cried so hard during this scene that I used my brand-new baseball cap to wipe my face—and by the time I walked out of the theater, my face had turned blue from the dye.”

UCR’s writer wasn’t the only one emotionally wrecked from that scene and others like it in the movie. To ensure authentic emotional performances, Cinema Flashback shared, “Spielberg shot the film in chronological order, making the tearful farewell at the end a genuine reaction from the children who had bonded with the character.”

Related: 1984 Nostalgic Hit With Saddest Scene of All Time Named in Greatest Fantasy Movies

Everyone from the actors to the crew was sobbing by the time Spielberg yelled cut. As if that isn’t enough, the film's origin story is another reason to grab the tissues.

Spielberg drew heavily from his parents’ 1966divorce and the loneliness and isolation he experienced afterward, imagining an extraterrestrial companion who could fill the void left by his broken family, combining those personal memories with an unrealized sci-fi project about a stranded, benign alien.

“Creative people in art or architecture or filmmaking or theater or writing are all products of a collection of impressions from our earliest memories,” Spielberg told American Cinematographer. “I’m inspired all the time, but my inspirations are a sum of all my parts, and all of my parts started back in 1947 when I was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and kind of accumulated the dust or the pollen of my experience right up until E.T.

Aaron Rapoport / Getty Images

Decades later, Drew Barrymore, who played Gertie at age 6, still talks about E.T., describing the lovable character as her “first imaginary friend” and Spielberg as a “father figure.”

Spielberg’s sixth feature film was another box office smash. Grossing more than $600 million worldwide during its initial theatrical run, the global phenomenon eventually surpassed Star Warsto become the highest-grossing film in history at the time.

E.T. was no slouch on the awards circuit either.

At the 55th Academy Awards the following year, E.T. was nominated for nine Oscars and wonfour, including best music for John Williams’ masterful, symphonic score. The music was so beloved that Spielberg ultimately re-edited the ending of the film to accommodate the composer’s heartstrings-tugging score better.

According to The Film Music Society, Spielberg had Williams conduct the music while watching the final reel, then essentially cut the film to the music. So, for the riverbed scene, which bleeds into the finale, Williams deserves some of the credit. His sweeping score doesn’t just soundtrack the tearful goodbye; it practically tells the audience how to feel.

“At the time I was working on it, I don't think I really realized how truly great that film is,” Williams said. “It sets the most magical story in the most mundane of circumstances: the suburbs, a broken marriage, a couple of interesting kids. This little creature hidden in the bedroom, falling in love with these young Earthlings and vice versa—an unbelievable story told so skillfully, so expertly, that you buy it completely.”

One of the movie's most famous pieces of nostalgia--the Reese's Pieces-- almost belonged to another candy. M&M’s reportedly passed on the movie tie-in, so Spielberg and his team went to Hershey, which agreed to let the film use the chocolate company’s orange, yellow, and brown bits. The film’s exposure helped boost the candy’s sales dramatically. Perhaps tears of joy were in order there.

Today, the film is beloved for its flying BMX-bike sequence, its iconic Halloween night scene, and, of course, the dying scene that will always require tissues. The film’s emotional legacy still resonates 44 years later, with Spielberg still knowing exactly how to make fans cry.

Related: 1968 Movie, Behind One of TV’s Most Beloved Theme Songs, Was a No. 1 Hit 58 Years Ago

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