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Long before Johnny Cash became one of country music’s most recognizable stars, he was a young man in love.

More than that, he was a young man in love who had a lot to say.

Cash married Vivian Liberto on Aug. 7, 1954, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Memphis, Tennessee. The couple had met several years earlier, and during their courtship, they exchanged more than 10,000 pages of love letters.

Those letters offer a glimpse at a side of Cash that could easily get lost behind his larger-than-life music career. Before the black suits, hit records and "Man in Black" persona, he was writing to the woman who would become his first wife and the mother of his four daughters.

Cash and Liberto had four daughters together: Rosanne, Kathleen, Cindy and Tara. Their marriage lasted until 1967, as Cash’s career continued to grow and his struggles with addiction and infidelity put increasing strain on their relationship.

Despite the difficult years that followed, the correspondence from their early relationship remained an important part of Liberto’s story.

In 2007, Liberto published I Walked the Line: My Life with Johnny, an autobiography that drew from the thousands of pages of letters exchanged during their courtship. The book offered her perspective on their relationship and life with Cash before and after he became a household name.

The letters also provide an unusual look at the early relationship behind one of country music’s most famous marriages. Cash would go on to become a major recording artist, while Liberto largely remained outside the spotlight as she raised their daughters.

Their marriage ultimately ended in divorce in 1967, but their early letters survived as a remarkable record of their relationship.

Cash married June Carter the following year, and their partnership would become one of the most celebrated relationships in country music.

Still, long before Cash and Carter became country music’s most famous couple, there was Vivian, and more than 10,000 pages of letters that captured the beginning of Cash’s first great love.

RELATED: Johnny Cash Was a Legend, But He Never Hit No. 1 Here

When talking about Stoic philosophers, we’ve covered some big names like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius. There are, of course, many others, with another famed philosopher being Cato the Younger. As the Daily Stoic wrote, he is known as “one of the people who truly lived the Stoic values” every day, and his actions spoke volumes about “what it means to live the philosophical life,” even though he didn’t leave behind any writings. Much of what we know about Cato the Younger comes from what others wrote about him. This is where our quote of the day comes from, and it highlights his thoughts about discretion in what you say and being intentional with your words.

As Britannica reported, Cato the Younger was known as Marcus Porcius Cato Uticensis and was born in 95 BCE and died in 46 BCE. His grandfather was Cato the Censor, better known as Cato the Elder, who was a Roman statesman known for his conservative and anti-Hellenic policies.

On top of being a follower of Stoic philosophy, Cato the Younger was also an influential conservative Roman senator during the late Roman Republic era, who tried to “preserve… against power seekers,” per Britannica. As Classics for All reported, Cato the Younger “was a staunch champion of the traditional prerogatives of the aristocratic elite in the Senate,” and fiercely defended tradition within his government role. This made him admirable to many, but also drew the attention and concern of others, such as Julius Caesar. 

Stoic teachings are all about accepting that you cannot control most things outside of yourself. This includes how others respond to or treat you, what the universe has in store for you and—above all—death. It comes for us all, and the Stoics were very big on understanding this and working to accept it. This definitely comes across in Cato the Younger’s life and his end; he was also staunch in his morals and what he deemed as correct, which is one of the only things we can control in this life. And for today’s quote, Cato the Younger’s words share what he thought about self-restraint in what you say and put out into the world.

Related: Quote of the Day: Stoic Philosopher Epictetus on Embracing the Unknown and Letting Go of Control

Quote of the Day by Cato the Younger

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“I will begin to speak when I am not going to say what were better left unsaid.”

This quote comes from The Life of Cato the Younger by Plutarch, from his Parallel Lives series. This particular version was translated by Bernadotte Perrin. According to Britannica, Plutarch was a Greek biographer and author who wrote this series of 48 biographies on famous men in Greek and published in the early 2nd century CE. Unfortunately, not all of these survived the test of time, but according to the University of Chicago, 18 pairs of biographies were saved.

In the fourth section, still near the top of the piece, Plutarch explains that Cato became a priest of Apollo and started to “live yet more simply.” He met Antipater the Tyrian, who was a Stoic philosopher and inspired Cato to devote “himself especially to ethical and political doctrines.” 

Plutarch also wrote that Cato spoke to groups of people with an almost militant fervor; however, he didn’t outwardly speak or “perform his exercises” in front of others often. So much so that he writes a friend of Cato’s told him that "Men find fault with thee, Cato, for thy silence.” And this is where our quote of the day comes in; Cato replied:

"Only let them not blame my life. I will begin to speak when I am not going to say what were better left unsaid.”

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist Ellen Langer’s Words on Keeping an Open Mind Are More Relevant Than Ever

Deeper Meaning of Cato the Younger’s Quote—Use Discretion and Self-Restraint

Unless we have fantastic self-control, emotional regulation skills and have matured with excellent emotional intelligence, it can be really hard to stop ourselves from blurting words out when we’re upset, frustrated or overly excited. A bit more than just putting our foot in our mouths, there are times when we are either in an argument with someone or are trying to plead our case for something we’re passionate about, and we might say something in the heat of the moment. And this is what Cato the Younger is talking about. 

When he was told by a companion that other men “find fault” in how little he says out loud—at least regarding their perception of how much one should speak—his response was to share that he’s very selective and thoughtful about what he does say. And this is because some things are just better left unsaid. 

He’s saying that he’s intentional about what he does say out loud because there are just some sentiments that are better off left in your head—or written in a private journal, in a letter to burn, etc. You don’t need to spew out every thought that comes to mind, especially when it comes to something significant or in a conversation with someone important to you. 

We’ve all been there: we’re in a heated fight or argument with our partner. We’re experiencing very tense and passionate emotions, and so many negative thoughts are racing through our minds. Do you say everything you’re thinking? Of course not. I’d venture a guess that a majority of those thoughts aren’t how you actually feel about that person. But heightened emotions can really get the best of you, and if you speak before you think, you might say something hurtful or foolish. That’s why it’s very common to advise people to “count to 10” or take a breather and walk away from conflict to come back with a clearer head to filter out negative sentiments. 

And while Cato might not have been referring to just disagreements, he’s advocating for intentionality in all of your outward spoken moments. While easier said than done, he poses a valid concept. The more we stop and think about what we want to say, the more we will properly express ourselves without offending or upsetting others. There really are lots of things that we don’t believe in our hearts—but our brain might conjure up—that are better left unsaid.

Related: Quote of the Day: Becky Kennedy’s Simple Question Could Change the Way You Parent

More Quotes from Cato the Younger

• “Bear in mind, that if through toil you accomplish a good deed, that toil will quickly pass from you, the good deed will not leave you so long as you live; but if through pleasure you do anything dishonourable, the pleasure will quickly pass away, that dishonourable act will remain with you for ever.”
• “Nay, men, if any of you had heeded what I was ever foretelling and advising, ye would now neither be fearing a single man nor putting your hopes in a single man.”
• “In doing nothing men learn to do evil.”
• “Consider it the greatest of all virtues to restrain the tongue.” 
• “Consider in silence whatever any one says: speech both conceals and reveals the inner soul of man.”

Up Next:

Related: Quote of the Day: Albert Einstein's Famous Words on the Power of Imagination Still Inspire Today

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If you've started collecting chicken-themed kitchen decor, there's no turning back. One hen-shaped canister turns into a rooster cookie jar, then a floral tablecloth, an egg basket sitting on the counter, and before you know it, your kitchen has transformed into the cozy country space you've always dreamed of. It's a decorating style that's been around for generations, bringing a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and lived-in charm. 

If you’re after that aesthetic, the Martha Stewart Chickens 3-Piece Valance and Tier Set is a natural addition. Priced at just $19 at Walmart and Amazon, it's an easy, affordable way to lean into that beloved country aesthetic without redecorating the entire room. Whether you're already a devoted chicken collector or simply want to add a little farmhouse personality above the sink, this trio instantly makes the space feel brighter, cozier, and a whole lot more charming.

Martha Stewart Chickens 3-Piece Valance and Tier Set, $19 at Walmart and Amazon

Courtesy of Walmart

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This three-piece curtain set captures that cozy farmhouse aesthetic. The tailored valance features a parade of beautifully illustrated hens and roosters in warm shades of chestnut, cream, and golden brown, each rendered with lifelike feather detailing that feels inspired by vintage botanical and farm illustrations. 

Coordinating navy gingham tier curtains ground the whimsical print with a classic check pattern, while slim navy twill tape trim creates a polished border that ties the entire look together. The combination strikes a balance between rustic and refined, making it equally at home in a cottage kitchen or traditional country home.

The set includes everything needed to dress one window: Two matching tier panels, each measuring 30 inches wide by 36 inches long, and a coordinating 60-by-14-inch valance. Hung side by side, the tiers provide a combined width of 60 inches, covering the lower portion of the window while allowing plenty of natural light to stream in. The rod pocket construction makes installation quick and effortless, and because each piece is lightweight, they'll drape softly with gentle gathers that enhance the set's relaxed, casual appearance.

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• Topick Striped Kitchen Curtains and Valance Set, from $16 (was $20) at Walmart
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• Mainstays Printed Tiers and Valance Set, $13 at Walmart

Crafted from a durable blend of 65% recycled polyester and 35% cotton, these unlined curtains softly filter sunlight instead of blocking it, filling the room with a bright, airy glow while still offering a touch of privacy. The fabric is machine washable for easy upkeep and is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, meaning it's been independently tested for harmful substances. Whether you're refreshing a kitchen, breakfast nook, laundry room, or bathroom, this coordinated set adds warmth and personality in one easy update.

Chicken lovers and nostalgia-seekers alike couldn't get enough of this “cute” and “rustic country” curtain set, with Walmart shoppers saying it looks absolutely “adorable” in the kitchen. One reviewer especially loved how well the coordinating pieces work together, writing, “The tier is a very pretty navy and white gingham look which matches the valance with the chickens really well.”

That same shopper also praised the curtains for being practically “maintenance free,” noting that they can simply be “thrown into the washing machine” whenever cooking splatters or dust starts to build up.

Related: Target's Rustic 4-Tier Rack Is the Timeless and Durable Upgrade Your Small Kitchen Needs

Add more "cluck" for less of your buck — shop the $19 Martha Stewart Chickens 3-Piece Valance and Tier Set at Walmart or Amazon!

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If you're finding joy in more whimsical pieces, then you have to explore Walmart's cottagecore section. The retailer is leaning into the trend by adding more floral, farmhouse-inspired, and feminine pieces to their offerings. Thankfully, the majority of the home finds are affordable, and will upgrade your home at a low price. Walmart's Better Homes & Gardens Springwood Cane TV Stand is our latest favorite, and it's 36% off now.

The stand initially cost $247, but has been reduced to $158 during a limited-time rollback deal. The piece is additionally marked as Walmart's overall pick and is already in over 50 customer carts, so the popular style is going fast. You can get your hands on two colors: light honey and charcoal. We particularly like the black hue for mid-century and modern style homes that still want a touch of playfulness, while the tan serves the classic cottagecore look. 

Better Homes & Gardens Springwood Cane TV Stand, $158 (was $247) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The television stand is 57.01 inches long, 18.03 inches wide, and 31.02 inches tall, so make sure to measure your space with these specifications to ensure that it fits. The piece can support up to 65-inch televisions and up to 70 pounds. The design features tapered legs, and open storage in the center with two adjustable shelves that you can display items on, like picture frames, books, and more. 

The closed compartments offer hidden storage with adjustable shelves as well, and rattan doors that will add texture to your space. The wooden piece is made of wood composite and solid wood accents, so you can just wipe it with a damp cloth to keep it clean. You will have to assemble the stand upon arrival, but shoppers said that it's "easy to put together."

Other customers said that the furniture is "beautiful," "sturdy," "amazing quality," "well-made," "impressive," "well-packaged," and a "great value." Shoppers really like that the stand "looks very expensive but is very affordable." It's also a great option for small spaces where bigger television stands can't be accommodated. 

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If you're looking for a quick yet stylish upgrade for your living area, this gorgeous television stand is it. You'll want to hurry though, because this rollback deal won't be available for long. Add the furniture to your Walmart cart while it's $89 off! 

Related: Walmart’s Beautiful $21 Birthstone Necklace Brings the Toi Et Moi Trend to Your Collection for 76% Less

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.

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If you love the cozy look of French country decor, updating your bedding is one of the easiest ways to bring the style home. Classic toile prints, soft colors, and vintage-inspired patterns can make a bedroom feel warm and inviting without requiring a full room makeover.

The Bird Toile 3-Piece Comforter Set at Macy's makes it easy to channel the trendy aesthetic for less. Right now, it's on sale for just $25, down from $80 — that's 69% off. The set features a classic bird toile print in elegant sage and white, bringing a French-countryside feel to your bed. For anyone looking for bedding that looks good and feels soft, this comforter is an easy pick.

Macy's Bird Toile 3-Piece Comforter Set, $25 (was $80) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

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You can shop this comforter set in twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king-sized options, which are all on sale for the same price. The full/queen comforter measures 90 inches by 90 inches, while the king is larger at 104 inches by 90 inches. The twin/twin XL comes with a 66-inch by 90-inch comforter. Just keep in mind that the full/queen and king sets come with two matching shams, while the twin/twin XL is a two-piece set with a single sham. 

Made from 100% polyester, the set is great for year-round use. It works on its own as the weather cools and layers easily under a blanket once winter sets in. One reviewer said it'll be "great for cool weather," while another shared that it was “great quality for the price.”

Shoppers had plenty of additional good things to say about this “pretty” bedding find. One said it brought “a fresh new look” to their bedroom while another said it was "soft and durable." The set is machine washable, making it an easy, low-maintenance pick for everyday use.

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Related: Macy's Garden-Inspired Tablecloth Will Transport You to the English Countryside, and It's on Sale for $21

Whether you're refreshing your own room or a guest bed for the season, the Macy's Bird Toile 3-Piece Comforter Set is a budget-friendly way to cozy up your bed for the fall season. Head to Macy's to grab it while it's nearly 70% 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.

Today's New York Times Connections Sports Edition puzzle explores maintaining fields and recognizing city sports teams to remembering iconic basketball sneakers and uncovering former NBA names, these groups will test your sports knowledge and word associations.

Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Friday, August 7, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Friday, August 7, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on August 7, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow:Get off my lawn!
• Green: Mile-High City sports.
• Blue: Shoes on your feet.
• Purple: Hoops teams of the past.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: GROUNDS CREW EQUIPMENT
• Green: DENVER TEAMS
• Blue: FAMOUS CLASSIC BASKETBALL SNEAKERS
• Purple: FORMER NBA TEAMS NAMES, MINUS THE S

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #683 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• GROUNDS CREW EQUIPMENT: DRAG MAT, MOWER, RAKE, TARP
• DENVER TEAMS: AVALANCHE, BRONCOS, NUGGETS, SUMMIT
• FAMOUS CLASSIC BASKETBALL SNEAKERS: AIR JORDAN, PUMP, QUESTION, WEAPON
• FORMER NBA TEAMS NAMES, MINUS THE S: BOBCAT, CHAPARRAL, ROYAL, SUPERSONIC

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Thursday, August 6, 2026

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If you're decorating your space and don't know where to start, then you can count on Martha Stewart. The television personality is known to offer budget-friendly home options, from the kitchen to the living room, with one of our favorite collections of hers being sold Walmart. The latest piece we're loving is the Martha Stewart Safavieh Geometric Area Rug, which is up to 40% off right now.

The piece originally cost $64, but has been reduced to just $42. The rectangle rug is being sold in six sizes, with the smallest being 3-feet by 5-feet, and the largest at 9-feet by 12-feet. The maximum price is $203, and only two of the available sizes are currently on sale (the smallest size mentioned and the 4-foot by 6-foot option, which is $59). 

Martha Stewart Safavieh Geometric Area Rug, $42 (was $64) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The rug features a geometric design with primarily gray and white colorways, which is ideal for modern-style homes. The item was power-loomed in Turkey and is made of 100% cotton. Due to the material, it's recommended that you vacuum it regularly and spot clean it for best results. If there's truly a tough stain, then acquiring a professional rug cleaner is advised. You may want to rotate the rug every three months so as to create even wear. 

The piece has a 0.25-inch pile height, so you can place it in high foot traffic areas and underneath furniture easily. Like most indoor rugs, don't place the style in direct sunlight to prevent the color from fading. If you are putting it in a busy space, then you can also invest in a rug pad from Walmart to prevent it from slipping. 

One shopper placed this style in their bedroom, adding that the "look and feel of this rug" is "perfect." The beauty of this design is that it's minimalist enough that you can place it nearly anywhere, but exciting enough that it still elevates any room. 

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Rugs can get pretty pricey these days. Thanks to Martha Stewart's cool geometric rug, you can now upgrade your space on a budget. Shop the decor piece now, while it's 40% off at Walmart! 

Related: Walmart Has a 'Very Spacious' $26 Backpack That's 'Worth Every Cent,' and Comes in Over 15 Colors

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Today's New York Times Connections puzzle explores from everyday household items to chilly things, mechanical components, and words that begin with male animal names, today's groups will have you looking closely at both objects and wordplay.

There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1153 onFriday, August 7, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Friday, August 7, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Friday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Friday, August 7

1. Light it up.
2. Brrrrr!
3. Going up?
4. Each word begins with a hidden term.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Friday, August 7:

1. COMPONENTS OF A CANDLE: FRAGRANCE, JAR, WAX, WICK
2. COLD THINGS: LIQUID NITROGEN, REFRIGERATOR, SNOW, SUNDAE
3. PARTS OF AN ELEVATOR: BUTTONS, CABLES, MOTOR, SHAFT
4. STARTING WITH MALE ANIMALS: BUCKYBALL, JACKPOT, RAMBO, TOMATILLO

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Wednesday, August 5, 2026

Green Day has opened its tape vault.

The band launched Green Day TV on Thursday, a nonstop stream on YouTube that promises "over 100 hours of footage you can't find anywhere else."

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It Opened With a 1994 Club Show

One of the first things the channel aired was video shot on a single camera at the 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C., in 1994. That was the night Billie Joe Armstrong introduced the crowd to "She," off Dookie. By the setlist database Rolling Stone checked, it was only the third time the band had played the song live. Green Day has played it more than 920 times.

The Archive Goes Back Almost Three Decades

The stream runs music videos and live performances next to footage shot in recording studios, at video shoots, on tour and backstage. Green Day announced it with a promo in the style of Wayne's World, and the channel's own copy promises "unearthed VHS tapes, deep cuts, and probably some stuff that should've stayed in the archives."

https://www.youtube.com/live/Xu90G4oFq2o?si=94cRDS_JZZ2vKRRs

It also carries trivia, giveaways and surprise merch drops. The band has more than 30 years to pull from.

Tré Cool Gets a Weekly Variety Show

The channel's original series is Transmission Unknown, a weekly variety show that drummer Tré Cool hosts. Handpicked emerging acts play live and sit for interviews, and original comedy sketches run between them. The band's own description for it reads as a rogue public-access broadcast.

Green Day TV is not the only place Armstrong, Mike Dirnt and Cool reach fans directly. They also run Green Day's Idiot Nation, a curated punk channel on SiriusXM built around their favorite records and rare Green Day recordings.

The band opened the Super Bowl in February. Last September it wrapped the biggest tour of its career, 106 shows across 33 countries. Even the back catalog is still moving: "Wake Me Up When September Ends" crossed a billion Spotify streams more than 20 years after it came out.

The band's film Nimrods, written and directed by Lee Kirk, reaches theaters Aug. 14.

Today's NYT Wordle answer describes being fake or giving a false appearance of. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections 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 #1875 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are two vowels 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

Synonyms for today's Wordle include: 'Pretend' and 'Simulate'

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 #1875 on Friday, August 7, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Friday, August 7, 2026, is FEIGN.

-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)

Luke Combs’ cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” has crossed one billion streams on Spotify. It is now the 18th country song in history to join Spotify’s billions club. 

The track is Combs’ third song to pass the one-billion mark. The cover appears on his 2023 album Gettin’ Old. The Recording Industry Association of America certified it 8x platinum last October after eight million units sold, per Whiskey Riff. 

Since its March 2023 release, the song has averaged 581,115 streams each day. It ranks as Combs’ second-highest streamed song by daily numbers, behind only “When It Rains It Pours.” 

Luke Combs performs during 2025 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival on June 12, 2025 in Manchester, Tennessee.

Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images

Combs is the second country artist with three one-billion-stream songs. Morgan Wallen leads with four after “Wasted On You” reached the mark in June. Combs joins Wallen, Zach Bryan and Taylor Swift as the only country artists with two or more tracks in the billions club. The full list of country songs with one billion Spotify streams is:

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1. “Something in the Orange” – Zach Bryan
2. “Last Night” – Morgan Wallen
3. “Tennessee Whiskey” – Chris Stapleton
4. “Beautiful Crazy” – Luke Combs
5. “When It Rains It Pours” – Luke Combs
6. “I Remember Everything” – Zach Bryan feat. Kacey Musgraves
7. “Love Story” – Taylor Swift
8. “I Had Some Help” – Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen
9. “Whiskey Glasses” – Morgan Wallen
10. “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Shaboozey
11. “Meant To Be” – Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line
12. “10,000 Hours” – Dan + Shay & Justin Bieber
13. “You Belong With Me (Taylor’s Version)” – Taylor Swift
14. “Body Like a Backroad” – Sam Hunt
15. “Wagon Wheel” – Darius Rucker
16. “Wasted On You” – Morgan Wallen
17. “Life is a Highway” – Rascal Flatts
18. “Fast Car” – Luke Combs

Combs’ next likely billion-stream song is “Hurricane” from his debut album This One’s for You. It currently sits at 954 million streams.

Combs’ version of “Fast Car” reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. That peak sits higher than Chapman’s original 1988 recording. The cover also hit No. 1 on the U.S. Country Airplay chart, the Hot Country Songs chart, and the Canada Country chart. It won Single of the Year at the 2023 Country Music Association Awards. 

At the 2024 Grammy Awards, Combs performed the song as a duet with Tracy Chapman. The North Carolina native released Gettin’ Old on March 24, 2023. “Fast Car” quickly became the most-streamed song from the album on Spotify.

Combs was born March 2, 1990, in Huntersville, North Carolina. He grew up in Asheville and later moved to Nashville. His 2017 debut album This One’s for You produced several No. 1 country hits, including “Hurricane,” “When It Rains It Pours,” and “Beautiful Crazy.” 

He recently made country music history as the first solo country artist to headline the 90,000-capacity Wembley Stadium in London. Guinness World Records confirmed the record after three shows on July 31 and Aug. 1-2. 

The dates closed his 23-date My Kinda Saturday Night Tour, which began in March in Paradise, Nevada. During the final weeks of the tour, Combs also headlined two nights at Ireland’s Slane Castle and two nights at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Related: 1982 Hit, Reimagined by Ella Langley, Is Still a Powerful Hit 44 Years Later

More than four decades after its release, Tina Turner, the legendary "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll," continues to cement her legacy in music as her timeless 1984 hit "What's Love Got to Do With It" earns yet another major honor.

The late musician's signature song was recognized as one of the Greatest Love Songs of All Time, proving its enduring influence across generations.

In a ranking released by Billboard, the publication named the top 50 popular tracks that convey deep affection, heartbreak and devotion.

With Diana Ross and Lionel Richie's "Endless Love" securing the No. 1 spot, Tina Turner's "What's Love Got to Do With It" landed at No. 33.

Serving as the lead single from her comeback album, Private Dancer, the song propelled Turner back into the spotlight, earning her chart-topping success, multiple awards and widespread acclaim, making it easy to see why it remains her signature anthem.

American singer Tina Turner in the '80s.

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Written by the British songwriting duo Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, the song was first offered to Cliff Richard, but he turned it down.

"What's Love Got to Do With It" was also proposed to Donna Summer, British pop group Bucks Fizz and Phyllis Hyman. However, they all rejected it before it landed with Turner.

Before agreeing to record the song, Turner wanted a rock-oriented comeback.

As for Britten, he focused on making the guitar parts heavier and edgier to persuade Turner to record the song, but it ultimately evolved into a synth-driven pop hit that became the biggest commercial hit of her solo career.

Despite being named one of the Greatest Love Songs of All Time, the track presents an unconventional take on love.

With the line "It’s physical. Only logical. You must try to ignore that it means more than that. What’s love got to do, got to do with it? What’s love but a secondhand emotion?" the lyrics emphasize physical attraction based on sexual desire and chemistry.

@officialtinaturner

Tina Turner was born for the stage✨ What’s Love Got To Do With It live from Arnhem, Netherlands. Tina Turner’s greatest hits and more via the link in bio. #tinaturner #whatslovegottodowithit #70smusic #liveperformance

♬ original sound - Tina Turner

Despite the song's true meaning, "What's Love Got to Do With It" has become one of the most iconic love songs ever recorded.

How "What's Love Got to Do With It" Cemented Tina Turner's Legendary Comeback

Through Private Dancer, Turner reintroduced herself as a global pop-rock superstar, thanks to the massive popularity of "What's Love Got to Do With It."

It became her highest-charting and only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained at the top for three weeks.

The 1984 hit also took home major honors, including Song of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 27th Grammy Awards. It was later inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012.

Related: 1986 Rock Song, Written by One of the 'Greatest Supergroups' of All Time GTR, Is Still a Generational Hit 40 Years Later

A new kind of flu shot will be available to some Americans this fall after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved mFlusiva, the nation's first seasonal influenza vaccine made using mRNA technology.

According to AP News, the vaccine, which was developed by Moderna, is approved for adults 50 and older. The FDA granted full approval for people ages 50 to 64, while adults 65 and older received accelerated approval pending additional confirmatory studies.

Unlike traditional flu vaccines, which are typically produced using eggs, mFlusiva uses the same mRNA technology that helped power several COVID-19 vaccines, according to the report. Because mRNA vaccines can be developed more quickly, experts say they may allow manufacturers to respond faster when circulating flu strains change.

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The approval follows a late-stage clinical trial involving more than 40,000 adults, in which Moderna's vaccine reduced laboratory-confirmed influenza cases by about 27% compared with a standard-dose flu shot. Common side effects included injection-site pain, fatigue and fever, similar to those seen with other vaccines.

Moderna said it expects limited supplies of mFlusiva to be available at select retailers this flu season, though broader distribution is expected in future years. The approval also marks a significant milestone for the company, which hopes to eventually offer a combined COVID-19 and influenza vaccine.

The Beatles were riding high in 1966. "Yellow Submarine"/"Eleanor Rigby" had already pushed Revolver to No. 1 on the U.K. charts, and it looked like nothing could touch them. Then a rising British rock band pulled off the unlikely feat with a song written by their 19-year-old frontman. 

Small Faces' "All or Nothing" became the band's biggest chart success, ending The Beatles' four-week run at the top. Released in August 1966, the emotional rock ballad showcased Steve Marriott's talent as a songwriter.

Marriott was going through a rough patch when he wrote "All or Nothing," and that heartbreak came through. Their manager, Don Arden, later called the song "top-drawer" in his autobiography Mr Big, adding that it's still played on the radio decades later.

The frontman also reflected on the song's impact, saying, "I think 'All Or Nothing' takes a lot of beating. To me, if there's a song that typifies that era, then that might be it."

Overtaking The Beatles was no small feat. Beatlemania was still in full swing, and the group dominated the charts. So when Small Faces pulled it off, it proved they could hang with their British Invasion peers.

Formed in 1965, Small Faces had a short but eventful run together. The group's debut single, "Whatcha Gonna Do About It," was a hit right out of the gate, though not without controversy. 

Arden was accused of manipulating the charts to help it climb, something he later denied, insisting the song succeeded thanks to both its quality and his promotion.

Even with all their early success, the band's rise wasn't smooth. By the time “All or Nothing” hit No. 1, Small Faces had become one of Britain’s biggest young bands. That kind of momentum should've set them up for an even bigger career. Instead, internal conflicts and management disputes started getting in the way.

Their relationship with Arden eventually fell apart after the band began questioning their finances. When the members’ parents confronted Arden over the missing earnings, he reportedly responded by accusing the group of spending their money on drugs, further damaging their trust in their manager. 

Switching from Decca to Immediate Records worked out well, bringing more hits like "Itchycoo Park," "Tin Soldier," and "Lazy Sunday." None of them, though, hit as big as "All or Nothing."

Meanwhile, Marriott was getting fed up with people writing Small Faces off as just another pop group. He wanted to push things further musically. 

That itch to experiment led to their 1968 concept album, Ogden's Nut Gone Flake. But trying to pull off that elaborate sound live turned out to be tough, and that struggle played a big role in Marriott's decision to leave the band.

Small Faces eventually fell apart in that lineup. The rest of the band joined up with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood from the Jeff Beck Group to form Faces, while Marriott went on to start Humble Pie alongside Peter Frampton.

Related: 1958 Rockabilly Song, With 13-Year-Old Brenda Lee, Became a No. 1 Hit 65 Years Later

If you grew up with a bowl of brightly colored cereal at the breakfast table, you may soon notice something a little different about your favorite morning staple. Kellogg's is making a major change to some of its most iconic cereals, including Froot Loops and Apple Jacks.

WK Kellogg Co. announced Thursday that it will eliminate artificial colors from all of its cereal products by the end of 2026, one year earlier than originally planned. The company says it will instead use colors derived from natural sources, including fruit and vegetable juices and other plant-based ingredients.

According to a press release issued on Thursday, August 6, Kellogg Co. will switch from artificial coloring to colors derived from natural sources, including fruit and vegetable juices, and plant-based ingredients.

"In preparation for removing artificial colors from its entire portfolio, WK Kellogg has already reformulated foods served in schools to be free of artificial colors and discontinued launches of new products with artificial colors beginning this past January," the company said.

WK Kellogg Co

Kellogg joins a list of other food companies who have committed to removing artificial dyes, including Kraft Heinz and PepsiCo.

"More and more consumers are looking for foods made with simple, recognizable ingredients and we are proud to meet those expectations, even sooner than planned," Doug VanDeVelde, Chief Growth Officer, WK Kellogg Co., said Thursday. "We conducted extensive consumer testing to make sure these recipes deliver the great taste consumers want while maintaining the original rainbow of colors – red, orange, yellow, green, purple and blue – that fans of Froot Loops and other colorful cereals have come to love. It wasn't easy, but we identified natural solutions for every color, and we're confident families will love the updated recipes and simplified ingredients without compromising on quality or taste."

Country music continues to celebrate timeless songs, and George Strait's "Fool Hearted Memory" is proving that great music never fades. 

Forty-four years after the song became Strait's first No. 1 hit, the 1982 classic is once draw attention following Ella Langley's widely praised acoustic cover.

Langley shared her stripped-down rendition of "Fool Hearted Memory" in December 2025 through a simple home video recorded in her kitchen. Accompanied only by an acoustic guitar, the rising country star delivered a gentle performance that quickly captured the attention of fans and fellow artists.

The timing of her tribute also coincided with George Strait being honored at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., making the performance even more meaningful for longtime country music fans.

Originally released on May 27, 1982, "Fool Hearted Memory" served as the lead single from George Strait's second album, Strait from the Heart. Written by Byron Hill and Blake Mevis, the song became Strait's first career No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart and also reached No. 1 in Canada.

George Strait at the 14th Annual American Music Awards held at the Shrine Auditorium on January 26, 1987 in Los Angeles, California.

Photo by Ron Wolfson/Dick Clark Productions via Getty Images

The single later finished at No. 15 on Billboard's 1982 year-end Hot Country Songs chart, earned an ASCAP Award as one of the year's most performed country songs, and eventually received Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), recognizing more than 500,000 certified units.

"Fool Hearted Memory" marked a turning point in George Strait's career.

Before recording the song, Strait had already shown promise with several Top 20 singles. However, "Fool Hearted Memory" became the breakthrough that established him as one of country music's biggest stars.

According to American Songwriter, the song was originally written specifically for the 1982 action film The Soldier. Songwriter Byron Hill recalled that producers wanted a country song for the movie, while MCA Records hoped to help introduce a young George Strait to a wider audience.

Hill explained, "Thanks to ATV Music's Gerry Teifer, MCA Records' Jim Fogelsong, and Producer Blake Mevis, a deal was done to give a young, new MCA recording artist a cameo role in the movie singing a song that was specially written for the movie, and would hopefully be a hit single. That new MCA artist was George Strait."

Hill later reflected on the song's lasting legacy, "On Aug. 28, 1982, the song became my first No. 1 as a songwriter and Strait's first No. 1 as an artist."

Although The Soldier has largely faded from public memory, "Fool Hearted Memory" has remained one of George Strait's signature recordings.

Langley's acoustic performance reminded many listeners why "Fool Hearted Memory" remains one of George Strait's most beloved songs.

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The cover arrived shortly after Langley celebrated a major career breakthrough. At the 2025 CMA Awards, she won Music Video of the Year, Song of the Year, and Single of the Year before earning her first Billboard Hot Country Songs No. 1 with "Choosin' Texas."

More than four decades after introducing Strait as a future country music icon, the song continues to connect with audiences through both its original recording and a new generation of artists paying tribute to one of country music's enduring classics.

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

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Inspired mostly by Bethany Joy Lenz on One Tree Hill, but also every teen magazine on the planet at the time, ponchos were a staple of my high school wardrobe. Given that my fashion sense in the late aughts was more follow-the-trend than trendsetter, I made some questionable decisions you probably wouldn't want to repeat today, but ponchos weren't one of them.

Examples of how to style poncho tops are all over social media right now. You could pair it with flowy linen pants for a resort-ready ensemble, denim shorts at a festival, or over a minidress for a night out.

@jessicaozco

The poncho top trend has me obsessed ✨ Girls sharing details in my bio ♥️ #eurosummeroutfits #summeroutfits2026 #fypfashion

♬ Can't Get You out of My Head - Kylie Minogue

Want to get in on the trend? Head to Amazon and grab the Lomon Sheer Poncho Top. Prices typically range from $17 to $27, depending on color, but select styles are now marked down to as low as $15. Worn over a swimsuit, bandeau, or tank top, this light and airy poncho keeps you cool but covered no matter where you're headed this summer. 

Lomon Sheer Poncho Top, From $15 (was $18) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This top's mesh knit crochet fabric is 75% acrylic and 25% nylon, which gives it a lighter-than-air feel. Featuring an asymmetrical hemline with a wide neckline, the pullover design can be worn draped over both shoulders or styled slightly off-center for an off-the-shoulder look. Though it only comes in one size, Amazon shoppers described the material as "very stretchy," and many customers noted that the top truly does fit most body types. 

From elegant weddings to class reunions, several Amazon shoppers mentioned wearing this "lightweight and versatile" top as a shrug over a dress for added coverage and warmth. Other people who have worn it on vacation and to concerts said they loved how "chic" this poncho looked paired with their casual attire. "You can wear it so many ways," one reviewer explained, adding that this top made their outfit "feel classy."

Lomon Sheer Poncho Top, From $15 (was $18) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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To keep this top looking pristine, it's recommended to hand-wash it in cold water and lay flat to dry, as machine washing and drying could snag the material. Amazon shoppers confirmed that the finely knit fabric does require careful handling. However, several travelers noted that the piece is wrinkle-resistant, making it a great option to toss in your suitcase.

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• Lomon Sheer Ruffled Poncho Top, $9 (was $13) at Amazon
• Unclecat Mesh Knit Crochet Poncho Cover-Up, $15 (was $19) at Amazon
• Saodimallsu Poncho Sweater, $20 (was $46) at Amazon

Related: Amazon’s 'Incredibly Soft' Lettuce-Trim Lounge Set Feels Like a Designer Brand That’s 8 Times the Price

Don't be late to the poncho party — add the Lomon Sheer Poncho Top to your closet today for just $15 while it's on sale at Amazon.

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More than four decades after its release, one of Prince's most beloved songs is finding a new audience.

"Purple Rain" has climbed to No. 44 on TikTok's Top Songs chart, fueled by thousands of emotional videos that pair the song's soaring final moments with deeply personal memories and reflections.

Related: ‘Build Me Up Buttercup’ Original Band Member Turns 97

Rather than dance trends or comedy clips, many of the videos lean into the song's emotional crescendo. One celebrates a group of friends graduating from college. Another captures someone reflecting on heartbreak, while another simply reads, "A big part of who I am is who I'm not anymore."

@_h.27372

#purplerain #ocean #fyp

♬ original sound - . ͙֒𝒾𝓏𝓏🪽

Others use the song to soundtrack prom transformations or quiet moments of reflection, proving that Prince's towering anthem still resonates with listeners generations after it first topped the charts.

Related: 1968 Rock Hit, Voted the ‘Worst Song in Modern History,’ Went to No. 1 Twice

Released in 1984 as the title track to Prince's landmark Purple Rain album and film, "Purple Rain" peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, reached No. 1 on the Cash Box Top 100, and has long been regarded as one of the defining songs of Prince's career. Following his death in 2016, the song returned to the Billboard Hot 100, climbing as high as No. 4.

The song's legacy has only grown over the years. Rolling Stone ranked it No. 18 on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, calling it "a heartrending meditation on love, trust, God, and purple rain," while the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame included it among its 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.

"The version of the song on the Purple Rain soundtrack is actually a live recording from 1983 that Prince later polished into a transcendent anthem worthy of a movie title. After the film came out, the song and its jaw-dropping guitar solo got only bigger: The performance on the 1985 home video Prince and the Revolution: Live stretches to almost 19 minutes — and it is stunning," wrote Rolling Stone.

Related: 1975 ‘Comeback Song,’ Written in One Night, Hit No. 1 51 Years Ago Today

Prince's unforgettable performance of "Purple Rain" during the rain-soaked Super Bowl XLI halftime show remains one of the most celebrated halftime performances ever, and it was also the final song he performed live just one week before his death in April 2016.

@mysticmoonlight__

#purplerain #strangerthings #sad #prince

♬ original sound - . ͙֒𝒾𝓏𝓏🪽

The renewed interest follows another recent milestone for Purple Rain. Earlier this year, Barnes & Noble named the album one of its Albums of the Month, adding yet another honor to a record that has spent decades near the top of critics' greatest albums lists.

Forty-two years later, "Purple Rain" isn't just being rediscovered. It's becoming the soundtrack to an entirely new generation's biggest moments.

Related: 1984 Soundtrack Ranked No. 1 of All Time Is Getting New Recognition 42 Years Later

Brenda Lee was just 13 years old when she recorded "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" in 1958. The upbeat rockabilly tune became a holiday favorite over the years, but it took an astonishing 65 years to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. 

In 2023, ​​"Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" became only the third holiday song ever to top the Billboard Hot 100, joining Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" and "The Chipmunk Song" by The Chipmunks with David Seville. It also set the record for the longest gap between a track's release and its first trip to No. 1.

The milestone added yet another achievement to Lee's already impressive career. She became the oldest woman to ever hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, unseating Cher for the title. Ironically, Lee recorded the song when she was only 13, decades before it would earn her that distinction.

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Although "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" is now synonymous with Lee, it came just a few years after she began her career. Lee was only 11 years old when she released her debut single, "Jambalaya (On the Bayou)," in 1956.

She would go on to score dozens of hits, including "I'm Sorry," "I Want to Be Wanted," "All Alone Am I," and "Losing You." Throughout the 1960s, Lee charted 46 times on the Billboard Hot 100, more than any other female artist of the decade.

But at the end of the day, "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" became the song she'd be remembered for most.

The track was written by Johnny Marks, who also penned holiday classics like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "A Holly Jolly Christmas." It appeared on Lee's 1958 album Merry Christmas From Brenda Lee.

The songstress can still recall the day producer Owen Bradley first brought her the record.

“Owen just thought it’d be great to do a Christmas song that was really, really good,” she said during an appearance on Q with Tom Power. “He really believed in that one, and I loved it. I had to like what I recorded. I wasn’t one of those artists that the producer would say, ‘Well, I think this is good for you. We’re going to do this.’ I had to like it, or I couldn’t sing it.”

The song found a whole new audience when it was featured in the 1990 holiday classic Home Alone.

“I got a phone call, and they said, ‘Brenda, have you seen the movie Home Alone?’ And I said, ‘I have not,’” Lee recalled. “And they said, ‘Well, you need to go see it. Your song is all over it.’ And that’s really where Rockin’ got a big, big boost.

Despite how big the record became, Lee says she never really thought much about the money it brought in. “I didn’t know if the song made $1, $5, $10,” she added. “I didn’t know. I was just doing what I love to do. And that was to sing.”

Momentum picked up again in 2023, when Lee released the song's first official music video, featuring country stars Trisha Yearwood and Tanya Tucker. That, along with the usual holiday streaming rush, gave "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" just the push it needed to finally hit No. 1.

Over the years, countless artists have recorded their own versions of the holiday classic, including Justin Bieber, Cyndi Lauper, Alabama, and a duet by Kacey Musgraves and Camila Cabello. Even so, Lee's original recording is still the one people know best.

Related: 1965 Rock Hit The Byrds Turned Into One of the 'Greatest Songs of All Time'