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Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle deals with plays you might see on a ball field, what you get for coming in first, players from a certain lucky Boston team and break time. 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 Sunday, July 12, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Sunday, July 12, 2026 / New York Times

The 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 July 12, 2026

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

• Yellow: "And the winner is..."
• Green: Ball game strategies.
• Blue: A moment to catch your breath.
• Purple: Lucky the Leprechaun's all-stars.

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: AWARD
• Green: BASEBALL TACTICS
• Blue: USED DURING A TIMEOUT
• Purple: HOMOPHONES OF CELTICS ALL-TIME GREATS

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 #657 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• AWARD: CUP, MEDAL, PLAQUE, TROPHY
• BASEBALL TACTICS: DELAYED STEAL, HIT AND RUN, SACRIFICE, SQUEEZE
• USED DURING A TIMEOUT: CHAIR, DRY ERASE BOARD, TOWEL, WATER BOTTLE
• HOMOPHONES OF CELTICS ALL-TIME GREATS: ALAN, BURRED, KOOZIE, PERISH

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: Publix Issues Recall of Popular Freezer Staple for This Concerning Reason

Jon Bon Jovi and his iconic rock band, Bon Jovi, took to Madison Square Garden in New York on Tuesday, July 7, marking the first of nine sold-out shows of their headlining Forever Tour. 

Before launching into their 21-song set list, the rockers, according to People,  made up of original members Tico Torres and David Bryan, as well as Hugh McDonald, John Shanks, Phil X, and Everett Bradley, shared a video message with their fans. Afterward, they opened the show with the 1967 The Beatles classic, “With a Little Help from My Friends,” in the style of Joe Cocker, as shown in the YouTube fan video below.  

For Bon Jovi, 64, the cover song was a fitting opener, setting a lighthearted tone for the audience as he returned to the stage for his first tour since undergoing vocal cord surgery four years ago. The choice carried an extra layer of meaning as the opening lyrics of the song go: “What would I do if I sang out of tune…” That moment served as a playful nod to the challenges the singer has had to face with his voice as he eases back into performances. 

This, of course, isn’t the first time Bon Jovi put his spin on “With a Little Help from My Friends.” Years ago, he tackled the hit for a 1992 special called An Evening with Bon Jovi.

Released in May 1967, “With a Little Help from My Friends” appears on The Beatles' album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Written by Paul McCartney and John Lennon, the rock classic was one of the Fab Four’s songs sung by Ringo Starr, who later performed it in his solo sets. “With a Little Help from My Friends” has previously ranked at No. 311 on Rolling Stone’s ‘500 Greatest Songs of All Time’ list. 

Alongside The Beatles, many other versions of the song exist. Two popular renditions include Cocker’s version, recorded in 1968 for his album of the same name and used as the theme song for the comedy series The Wonder Years, and soft rock band Wet Wet Wet's release in 1988. Both of their versions of the beloved classic reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart.

Related: Beloved ‘80s Rocker Jon Bon Jovi Suffers Close Call On-Stage During Long-Awaited Comeback Concert

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Jewelry that stands the test of time usually has two things in common: It's easy to wear and versatile enough to work with what you already own. A delicate pendant necklace layered over a T-shirt, a pair of pearl earrings with a little black dress, or a simple bracelet stacked alongside your everyday watch — these are the types of accessories that will likely never leave your rotation.

And when it comes to classic jewelry, tennis bracelets are right up there with the greats. With that iconic row of sparkling stones and effortless elegance, the style has been a favorite for decades. If you’ve been wanting one of your own but are looking for something a little less traditional and more affordable than diamond-studded styles, the Colorful Crystal Tennis Bracelet at Anthropologie is currently marked down 34%, dropping the price from $38 to just $25.

Colorful Crystal Tennis Bracelet, $25 (was $38) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

Available in three colorways, this tennis bracelet puts a fresh spin on a classic silhouette. A slim strand of 14-karat yellow gold-plated brass is lined with an alternating arrangement of cubic zirconia stones in mixed shapes and sizes, creating a more organic, collected look than a traditional row of matching crystals. Round, oval, and emerald-cut stones are evenly spaced along the bracelet, giving the design dimension while allowing each facet to catch the light from a slightly different angle. Depending on which style you choose, the stones range from classic clear crystals to yellows, greens, and blues that add a fun pop of color without overwhelming the design.

Petite prong settings keep the profile light and airy, letting more light pass through each cubic zirconia for extra sparkle while maintaining a refined, barely-there feel on the wrist. The mixed-cut arrangement creates visual rhythm, giving the bracelet the appearance of a carefully curated heirloom rather than a perfectly uniform strand.

Shop More Deals

• Floating Crystal Bracelet, $20 (was $32) at Anthropologie
• Triple Stone Bracelet, $28 (was $38) at Anthropologie
• Colorful Beaded Chicklet Stretch Bracelet, $25 (was $38) at Anthropologie

Measuring 6.5 inches long with a 1.5-inch extender, this bracelet is easy to adjust for your preferred fit. A secure lobster clasp keeps it comfortably in place, whether worn on its own for understated shine or layered alongside chain bracelets, bangles, and a watch. The slim silhouette makes it an effortless everyday piece, while the faceted stones bring just enough brilliance to transition seamlessly into dressier occasions.

Shoppers gushed over the “delicate” and “dainty” design of this “beautiful” and “versatile” bracelet. One reviewer wrote that it “goes with any outfit, adding that “the crystals shine in the sun” for a subtle sparkle. 

Other shoppers highlighted the bracelet's “excellent quality,” with one person sharing that it “looks much more expensive than it is.”

Related: Anthropologie's Charming Crystal Squiggle Hoop Earrings Are 'Fun for Travel' and Just $18 Right Now

Whether you’re dressing up for an event or adding a little sparkle to your day-to-day outfit, the Colorful Crystal Tennis Bracelet delivers the timeless look of a jewelry classic with a fresh twist. Grab it for just $25 at Anthropologie while it’s still marked down!

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.

Few country songs have left a lasting impression quite like "If I Die Young."

Released in 2010 by The Band Perry, the emotional ballad became an instant hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and crossing over to mainstream audiences around the world.

More than a decade later, the song remains closely associated with lead singer Kimberly Perry, who celebrates her birthday on July 12.

Born in Mississippi in 1983, Perry helped form The Band Perry with her brothers, Reid and Neil. The sibling trio quickly became one of country music's biggest breakout acts, blending traditional country influences with contemporary pop and rock sounds.

Their breakthrough arrived with "If I Die Young," a poignant reflection on life and mortality that resonated deeply with listeners. The song earned widespread critical acclaim, won CMA Song of the Year in 2011 and became one of the defining country hits of the decade.

The Band Perry followed that success with a string of fan favorites, including "You Lie," "All Your Life," "Better Dig Two" and "DONE.," helping establish the group as one of country music's most successful acts in the early 2010s.

Over the years, Perry has continued to evolve as an artist, exploring different musical styles while remaining connected to the song that introduced millions of listeners to her distinctive voice.

Even now, "If I Die Young" continues to find new audiences through streaming services and social media, where younger fans regularly discover the heartfelt ballad for the first time. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Perry's emotional vocal performance and the timeless songwriting that helped make it a modern country classic.

RELATED: ‘DWTS’ Alum Nev Schulman Says Female Celebrities Have a Slight Advantage

KIDZ BOP has become a staple for generations of families, but one of the brand's biggest accomplishments is something many music fans never realize.

Since launching in 2001, the family-friendly music brand has racked up an astonishing 24 Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 chart—a feat matched or surpassed by only three artists in music history: The Rolling Stones, The Beatles and Barbra Streisand.

The milestone places KIDZ BOP in remarkably exclusive company, alongside some of the most influential and best-selling acts of all time.

The brand was founded after two fathers working in the music industry noticed there wasn't much music geared specifically toward school-aged children. Songs for younger kids often felt too juvenile, while popular radio hits weren't always appropriate for families. Their solution was simple: Have kids perform family-friendly versions of today's biggest songs for other kids.

That idea has grown into a global phenomenon.

Over the past 25 years, KIDZ BOP has sold more than 24 million albums, generated more than 14 billion streams and released over 3,000 songs across more than 52 albums. The brand now records music in five languages and has amassed more than 7 billion YouTube views, while its annual KIDZ BOP LIVE tour continues to draw family audiences across the country.

Its success extends beyond recorded music, too. KIDZ BOP also holds a Guinness World Record as the youngest group to headline an arena after performing at Wembley Arena and reaches fans through music videos, school events, SiriusXM's KIDZ BOP Radio and year-round releases.

While comparisons to legendary artists may seem unexpected, the numbers tell a remarkable story. Thanks to decades of consistent chart success, KIDZ BOP has quietly earned a place among some of the biggest names ever to appear on the Billboard 200.

RELATED: Elton John Returning to Mexico City After 14 Years for Final Farewell Performances

Bing bong! Today's NYT Strands Puzzle answer has plenty of Big Apple energy. Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #861 on Sunday, July 12.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "In the Big Apple"

A hint for today's Strands game: Concrete jungle where dreams are made of.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today's puzzle, there are eight theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• TA
• BA
• ST
• DE
• BO
• SU
• BO
• EM (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is mostly vertical.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for July 12

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, July 12, 2026, isEMPIRESTATE.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Sunday, July 12?

• TAXI
• BAGEL
• STOOP
• DELI
• BODEGA
• SUBWAY
• BOROUGH
• SPANGRAM: EMPIRESTATE

Related: Publix Issues Recall of Popular Freezer Staple for This Concerning Reason

Solving today’s New York Times Connections puzzle requires you to use your sweet tooth. 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 #1127 onSunday, July 12, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Sunday, July 12, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Sunday'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 Sunday, July 12

1. If you plant it, it will grow.
2. Sweet and fruity.
3. Campus life.
4. Where the decisions are made.

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 Sunday, July 12:

1. REPRODUCTIVE PART OF A FRUIT: PIP, PIT, SEED, STONE
2. BIT OF FRUIT-FLAVORED CANDY: DOT, NERD, RUNT, SPREE
3. VERBS IN A COLLEGE LIFE SLOGAN: PARTY, REPEAT, SLEEP, STUDY
4. STARTS OF U.S. CAPITALS: DEN, MAD, PHO, SAC

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: Publix Issues Recall of Popular Freezer Staple for This Concerning Reason

Today's NYT Wordle answer is a little noisy. 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 #1849 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There is one 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 double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is: Like the sound of a keyboard.

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 #1849 on Sunday, July 12, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Sunday, July 12, 2026, is CLACK.

-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)

More than two decades after his death, country music fans are about to hear a previously untold chapter of Gary Stewart's remarkable career.

The singer, known as the "King of the Honky-Tonks," built a devoted following with hits including "Drinkin' Thing," "Out of Hand" and the No. 1 country single "She's Actin' Single (I'm Drinkin' Doubles)." Now, a new archival collection titled One Track Mind will showcase 16 previously unreleased recordings made between 1967 and 1972, giving listeners a rare glimpse at Stewart before he became one of country music's most distinctive voices.

Set for release on July 17 through Delmore Recording Society, One Track Mind features early songwriting demos, home recordings and other archival performances preserved by producer Mark Linn and Stewart's close friend Tommy Schwartz.

Among the newly released songs is "Woman Will Tear the Heart Right Out of a Man," which is now available as a preview of the upcoming collection. Another early release, "Iron Bar Motel," debuted last month.

The recordings capture Stewart during his early years as a songwriter after arriving in Nashville from Fort Pierce, Fla. Working with songwriting partner Bill Eldridge, he penned songs that would later be recorded by artists including Del Reeves, Cal Smith, JackGreene and Nat Stuckey. But according to the album's producers, no one sang them quite like Stewart himself.

The CD and streaming editions will also include four bonus tracks, including rare country interpretations of Motown favorites. Stewart recorded demo versions of the Four Tops' "Baby I Need Your Loving" and "I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)," along with Stevie Wonder's "Yester-Me, Yester-You, Yesterday," while working with Motown's Jobete publishing company in 1970.

Those recordings ultimately helped catch the attention of producer Roy Dea, who signed Stewart to RCA Records. The partnership launched a string of country hits throughout the 1970s and cemented Stewart's place as one of the genre's most influential artists.

Interest in Stewart's life has continued to grow in recent years. Earlier this year, author Jimmy McDonough published the biography Gary Stewart: I Am From the Honky-Tonks, which chronicles the singer's life through interviews with family members and country music stars such as Willie Nelson and Tanya Tucker.

RELATED: The Recording Session That Sent Merle Haggard Into Country History

Ringo Starr reveals what makes him and fellow Beatle PaulMcCartney work so well together.

Starr spoke to People about his 2026 duet with McCartney, “Home to Us,” at his Peace and Love 86th birthday event in Beverly Hills, Calif., on July 7.

“Well, it’s the first time we’ve ever done it like a couple — we’re both singing it. I’ve sang a few choruses on his tracks. He’s played on my tracks. He’s come over with the bass,” Starr said.

Adding, “It’s not like we don’t know each other.”

“Home to Us” was released on May 8 and was one of the singles from McCartney’s solo album, The Boys of Dungeon Lane.

“I loved it because we were in this band together, and it’s just the best band ever. And Paul, his bass playing is incredible, and he’s a songwriter. I mean, I can go on forever. He’s just a wonderful lad,” Starr said.

The two surviving members of the Beatles are no strangers to collaboration.

Starr played the drums for McCartney's Flaming Pie album in 1997. While McCartney played bass on Starr’s Give More Love album and all instruments on his 2023 record Rewind Forward.

The newly 86-year-old came out with a country album, Long Long Road, in April.

“I’ve always loved country. I did a country album 50 years ago, [Beaucoups of Blues]. That was great because it just came about [by chance]. George [Harrison] was making a record, and I was playing on it after [the Beatles] had broken up,” he said.

“He had called this guy PeteDrake from Nashville to come over and play on it. And for whatever reason, we sent my car to Heathrow Airport to pick him up. And he comes in and says to me, ‘Hey, I see you like country music’ — because I had a lot of country cassettes in the car,” he continued. “‘You gotta come to Nashville and make a record.’ I said, ‘I don’t think so, I can’t spend months in Nashville.’ He said, ‘[BobDylan’s] Nashville Skyline took two days!’”

Starr continued, “So I went to Nashville and did a record in two days. We got up in the morning, talked to the songwriters and we found songs, and in the afternoon we recorded them. That was a really good experience.”

Chris Daughtry is back!

The beloved American Idolalum announced via social media on Friday, July 10, that he has re-recorded 11 of his biggest hits.

"We decided that it would be fun to go back into the studio and re-record some of our older hits, and recreate them note-for-note," Daughtry shared in a message to his fans. "It was a lot of fun. So much so that I think we'll probably eventually go back and finish the first album and the second album at least."

The "It's Not Over" artist explained that the songs — which are set to release at midnight on Tuesday, July 14 — are identical to their original versions.

"They are not reimagined," he continued. "We tried to recreate them note for note."

@daughtryofficial

Oops! "There and Back Again" THIS TUESDAY everywhere.

♬ original sound - Daughtry

While he did not reveal which songs will be part of the initial release, some fans got an exclusive early preview when the tracks leaked online ahead of the release date.

"For any of you who got to hear it early, the rug has been pulled from under you," he joked. "We will be putting it out on Tuesday. It prematurely went out to the world, and it was the wrong track order. It wasn't supposed to come out today."

Fans were first introduced to Daughtry during season 5 of American Idol in 2006. While he ended up coming in fourth place behind Elliott Yamin, Katharine McPhee, and Taylor Hicks, the show catapulted him to stardom.

His self-titled debut album, released just six months after the season finale, reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts. Daughtry is the third most successful American Idol contestant in terms of record sales of all time, landing only behind Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson.

Millions of Netflix subscribers can finally binge watch Friends again!

Years after Warner Bros. Discovery pulled the beloved '90s sitcom from Netflix as it expanded HBO Max globally, Friends has quietly returned to the streaming service across dozens of international markets. While Netflix subscribers in the United States, Canada, and several other major territories are still out of luck, the surprise comeback marks one of the show's biggest streaming expansions in years.

According to Collider, just days after Friends made its surprise return, the hit landed on Netflix's Top 10 TV Shows worldwide list.

Fans in France, Netherlands, Mexico, Australia, Estonia, Romania, UAE, and New Zealand, are flocking to binge the show's 10 seasons, according to fans in those regions. Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and the United States must still stream the series elsewhere.

Friends was once a staple of the Netflix library. However, with the emergence of Warner Bros.' own streamer, HBO Max, the series was pulled beginning in January 2020 for U.S. viewers.

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! Today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle spans a variety of topics, including text additions, priceless gems, things you might split.

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 Sunday, July 12, 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!

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Sunday, July 12, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Type face? — HINT: Ends with the letter "I"

6 Across: With ___ breath (anxiously waiting) —HINT: Starts with the letter "B"

7 Across: Halved — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"

8 Across: Prepare to propose — HINT: Ends with the letter "L"

9 Across: Certain British noblemen, like the ones of Sandwich — HINT: Starts with the letter "E"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Two-wheeler with a motor — HINT: Starts with the letter "E"

2 Down: Food from the heavens — HINT: Starts with the letter "M"

3 Down: Mammal that enjoys using a muddy riverbank as a slide — HINT: Ends with the letter "R"

4 Down: Prized stone — HINT: Starts with the letter "J"

5 Down: Prized people — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Sunday, July 12, 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: Type face? — EMOJI

6 Across: With ___ breath (anxiously waiting) — BATED

7 Across: Halved — INTWO

8 Across: Prepare to propose — KNEEL

9 Across: Certain British noblemen, like the ones of Sandwich — EARLS

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Two-wheeler with a motor — EBIKE

2 Down: Food from the heavens — MANNA

3 Down: Mammal that enjoys using a muddy riverbank as a slide — OTTER

4 Down: Prized stone — JEWEL

5 Down: Prized people — IDOLS

Related: Nearly 150-Year-Old Breakfast Brand Unveils First-of-Its-Kind Innovation That Makes Mornings Effortless

Fans of the popular rock band Alabama Shakes, which was first formed back in 2009, are ecstatic this month after the big announcement of the band's first new album in 11 years. Now, to top it off, the band shared a new song as well called "I Feel Hope Coming."

The new single is officially their third single off the upcoming album called I Must Be Dreaming, but it's their first to come out after the album was publicly announced. Their first new song in 10 years, "Another Life," came out last August as the band revealed their big return to making music and touring. The next single, "American Dream," came out in April 2026.

Lead vocalist and guitarist Brittany Howard talked about the hopeful nature of the song "I Feel Hope Coming" and the story behind it, saying in a statement, "This younger generation makes me feel hopeful because they can see through all the political lies — that song’s about holding onto that hope, and refusing to give up."

Guitarist Heath Fogg added, “I’m really happy that song exists. It came from such a joyful moment of collaboration, and exemplifies everything I love about this band being reborn.”

The new version of Alabama Shakes includes Howard, Fogg, and bassist Zac Cockrell. Former drummer Steve Johnson is no longer part of the band after serious legal issues.

The band originally found success with their acclaimed first album, Boys & Girls, in the early 2010s. Alabama Shakes followed it up with Sound & Color, released in 2015, which was a huge hit. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart. But in 2018, the group decided to go on hiatus so that the members could explore solo careers.

Related: 2000s Chart-Topping Singer Performs First Full Show in 15 Years

The new trio opened up about what led to the recent reunion when they announced their return to touring in February 2025. Howard said, "Last year, Heath, Zac, and I started chatting about how much fun it would be to make music together and tour again as Alabama Shakes. This band and these songs have been such a source of joy for all of us. It is crazy that it has been 10 years since we released Sound & Color and eight years since we played a show."

At the time, she also teased that "a bunch of new music" was on its way, but it wasn't until over a year later that their highly anticipated new album was finally announced.

Alabama Shakes' new record, I Must Be Dreaming, officially drops on Aug. 28.

Related: '80s Rock Icon Debuts 2 Unreleased Songs at Biggest Solo Show of His Career

It's the weekend, which means "you gotta fight... for your right... to parrrtay!"

There are plenty of epic one-liners across the Beastie Boys' song catalog — the one above is from "Fight for Your Right." Another track also comes to mind, a certain rap-rock anthem that's now more than 30 years old. But it still feels modern as ever.

The perpetually radio-friendly "Sabotage" was released way back in 1994, with a wacky music video directed by Oscar-winner Spike Jonez (see below). The track has quite the backstory, which has been revealed in various ways by the band over the decades.

Fans are still commenting to this day on the music video above, which features the original trio: Mike D, MCA and Ad-Rock. "Never gets old and still the greatest video ever made ❤️," wrote one YouTube user on Saturday, July 11, while another person recently commented, "Coolest most kick a-s music video I have ever seen!"

To mark the 15th anniversary of the track's release, Star Trek (2009) featured "Sabotage" perfectly in a scene showing a young James T. Kirk acting rebelliously on his home planet. And on the topic of pop culture, the Beastie Boys Book memoir (2018) reveals that an earlier version of the hit song actually featured a Queen Latifah sample as the hook, Rolling Stone reports. But it was later swapped out for that rambunctious "scream" that seems to last an eternity during the 183-second runtime.

The "live" documentary that was released two years later, Beastie Boys Story (2020), details more about the track's backstory — how it was inspired by the joking notion that the band's longtime producer Mario Caldato Jr. was trying to sabotage the band because he was frustrated by their indecisiveness when it came to finishing tracks.

If you happened to miss Beastie Boys Story when it was released (during the COVID-19 era), it's certainly worth a tune-in. Just like the "Sabotage" music video, the doc is also directed by Jonez, 56.

Christopher Nolan has dedicated his upcoming film, The Odyssey, to IMAX pioneer DavidKeighley.

The director has held an affinity for IMAX, with many of his films being shot in the format.

Nolan’s 2005 movie Batman Begins was optimized for IMAX, and he started using an IMAX camera in The Dark Knight. His later films, Dunkirk, Tenet, and Oppenheimer, were all filmed for the format. The Odyssey will be the first film shot exclusively with IMAX cameras.

Keighley was the first chief quality officer and a huge advocate of the premium format. He died last year from a battle with cancer.

During the London premiere of The Odyssey at the BFI IMAX Theater, Nolan announced the dedication. 

According to Variety, he introduced the screening sharing, “This was the first place I ever met David, in this theater, and we embarked on a more than 20-year journey. I confessed to him my secret desire to shoot Hollywood films on IMAX, and he very gently and very skillfully brought me along and helped out.”

Nolan continued, “David passed sadly right after we finished critical photography on this film, and after we finished his very important work of printing all our days and approving all of the photography. So I’m thrilled that he was able to finish that.”

Geoff Keighley, David’s son, shared an Instagram post in response to Nolan’s dedication.

He wrote in the caption: “When Dad learned he had terminal cancer in January 2026, he was just days away from starting principal photography on The Odyssey, which he believed would be ‘the most important movie ever made’ in his 53-year career at IMAX. The Odyssey is the fulfillment of his lifelong dream. IMAX began in the 1970s making documentaries about space, animals, and the wonders of the world, but my Mom and Dad always dreamed that one day, a major Hollywood epic would be made entirely with IMAX cameras — ‘our Lawrence of Arabia,’ as he liked to say.”

Geoff Keighley ended the caption by writing, “As my Dad grew weaker, he never wavered in his commitment to Chris and his wife/producing partner Emma Thomas. And you know what? He did it. Like Odysseus, my Dad made it home — he finished principal photography of the film.”

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When you’re rushing out the door, there's nothing worse than wasting valuable time digging through piles of clothes or searching crowded shelves for the outfit you want. A good closet organization system gives everything a designated place, helping reduce clutter while making the most of your available space.

One practical option is the Kitsure Closet Organizer Set. Right now, it's on sale for 33% off at Walmart. You can access an additional $10 coupon when signed into a Walmart account, bringing the price down from $70 to just $37.

Kitsure Closet Organizer Set, From $37 (was $70) at Walmart Shop at Walmart

The set is available in packs of eight or 10, allowing you to choose the configuration that best suits your storage needs. Each drawer measures 13.1 inches long, 16.6 inches wide, and 6.7 inches tall, making them roomy enough for clothing, accessories, and other household essentials.

One of the standout features is the stackable design. The drawers can be arranged in a variety of layouts to fit your space, whether you're organizing a closet, bedroom, or laundry room. The bins slide smoothly for easy access, while the drawers only open halfway to help prevent tipping.

These organizers are made from thickened polypropylene plastic with reinforced frames for added durability. They're designed to resist sagging, tearing, and collapsing, while side vents help promote airflow to keep stored items fresh.

The foldable design adds even more convenience. When not in use, the drawers can be quickly folded flat without any tools, making them easy to store away and ideal for anyone who likes flexible storage solutions.

While they're perfect for closets, these organizers can be used throughout the home. They're great for storing clothes, linens, toys, and seasonal items, but they also work well in offices for supplies, kitchens for pantry items, or under beds for extra storage.

One reviewer described them as “easy-to-use organizers with an easy setup,” writing, “I use mine for storage of shirts and sweaters that are out of season. You can fit a number of T-shirts, shorts, or sweaters into one container. They stack securely and it’s easy to pull stuff out.” 

Another described them as “versatile and sturdy,” sharing, “They’re so much sturdier than I thought it would be! There are so many different ways to use it — you can use them as a tower or in two stacks or whatever you need!”

Shop More Deals

• Tooloton Drawer Organizer Bins, $20 (was $39) at Walmart
• Sindcom Clear Plastic Storage Bins, From $13 (was $29) at Walmart
• Scidweet Under Bed Shoe Storage Organizers, $18 (was $36) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s $18 Maxi Skirt Is ‘Chic,' 'Flattering,' and 'Perfect' for Your Summer Travels

For a practical storage solution that can instantly make your daily routine easier, the Kitsure Closet Organizer Set is a great pick. With Walmart's current discount and coupon offer, you can save more than $30 on this versatile organization upgrade right now.

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.

In 1977, Stevie Nicks wrote one of the most personal songs of her career, but its defining moment wouldn't come until 20 years later.

"Silver Springs" was famously inspired by the end of Nicks' relationship with Fleetwood Mac guitarist Lindsey Buckingham during the making of Rumours.

Nicks said in a 1997 interview that she wrote the song to deliver one clear and powerful message: "I'm so angry with you. You will listen to me on the radio for the rest of your life, and it will bug you. I hope it bugs you."

Although many fans expected it to appear on the landmark album, the song was ultimately not including.

"I went to the studio and [bandmates Mick Fleetwood and Lindsey Buckingham] were in the parking lot, and I got out of the car and they said, 'We need to talk.' That's never good," Nicks told People. Fleetwood and Buckingham delivered the news that due to time constraints on the original vinyl release, "Silver Springs" would instead become the B-side to Buckingham's "Go Your Own Way," which chronicled the breakup from his perspective.

"Do you mean 'Silver Springs,' probably the best song I've ever written?" Nicks recalled saying. "And they're like, 'Well, yeah. Let's move on with that.' So basically, you're telling me you have made a final decision without me? I was so mad that I started to cry, and I'm pretty sure either I got back in my car and went home, or went in the studio furious and just fumed for eight hours. But I didn't get anywhere with that."

Despite never making the final Rumours tracklist, "Silver Springs" developed a small but following.

The song's aching lyrics and emotional intensity resonated with fans, many of whom considered it one of the strongest recordings from the Rumours sessions. Over time it became one of Fleetwood Mac's most celebrated deep cuts, with listeners often arguing it should have been included on the band's best-selling album.

Then, in 1997, "Silver Springs" took on an entirely new life.

During Fleetwood Mac's reunion for The Dance, Nicks and Buckingham performed the song together in a moment that has since become one of the most iconic live performances in rock history. As Nicks sang the climactic lyric, "You’ll never get away from the sound of the woman that loved you," she locked eyes with Buckingham, who held her burning gaze throughout the performance. The raw emotion between the former couple immediately captivated audiences.

"In six weeks of rehearsal, it was never like that," Nicks said of the performance. "Only on Friday night did we let it go into something deeper. When we went on Friday, I knew we'd bring it out in case it was the last thing we'd ever do. The other shows were really, really good, but they weren't the show I wanted to leave behind. This show was. I wanted people to stand back and really watch and understand what (the relationship) was."

The performance spread far beyond the original television special.

Over the years, clips of the performance have amassed millions of views online, introducing "Silver Springs" to a younger generation that embraced it as one of the ultimate breakup songs. Fans continue to revisit the performance, praising the emotional honesty and the unmistakable chemistry between Nicks and Buckingham, whose complicated relationship had long been woven into Fleetwood Mac's music.

For Nicks, the song has always carried special meaning. She has said she wrote it during one of the most painful periods of her life, channeling the heartbreak and frustration she felt as her relationship with Buckingham came to an end. That emotional authenticity is a major reason why the song continues to resonate decades later.

Nearly 50 years after it was first released, and nearly 30 years after its unforgettable resurgence, "Silver Springs" remains one of Fleetwood Mac's most powerful recordings. What began as Stevie Nicks' deeply personal response to heartbreak ultimately became a timeless breakup anthem whose legacy continues to grow with each new generation of listeners.

Related: 1978 Classic Ballad, Once Charting for 22 Weeks, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

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Possibly the best kind of merch shows off your favorite pick-me-up. From candles and tumblers to tote bags and cozy loungewear, favorite drinks have become part of personal style, giving fans another way to show off what they love.

Now, Target has a new find that blends comfort with one of the internet's favorite drinks, and this new oversized tee is a must-have for anyone who loves matcha.

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Target recently added a Wild Fable™ Oversized T-Shirt Sleep Dress featuring playful matcha-inspired graphics, and it's perfect for relaxing at home on these hot summer days and nights.

Women's Off The Shoulder Oversized T-Shirt Sleep Dress - Wild Fable Light Green, $20 at Target Wild Fable Matcha T-shirt

Target

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The light green sleep dress has a loose, oversized fit with an off-the-shoulder neckline and short sleeves for an easy, laid-back look. On the front, you'll find a cute animated cup of matcha tucked into the corner.

Turn it around, and the fun continues with a vintage-inspired graphic that reads "Hot Matcha Nights" above another smiling matcha cup. Below that, you'll see the phrases "Slow Sips Society" and "Stay in and sip matcha. Refresh your mood."

The lightweight, oversized shirt is designed to feel incredibly soft and breathable. It's an easy option for sleeping, lounging around the house or throwing on for a slow weekend morning with your favorite drink in hand.

Related: Walmart's 'Cooling' $9 Hooded UPF Shirt Offers 'Good Sun Protection' on Hot Days

The timing couldn't be better. As temperatures climb, oversized sleep shirts become a go-to choice for anyone looking for something cool and comfortable without sacrificing style. The relaxed fit gives it the feel of your favorite oversized tee, while the fun graphic adds a little personality.

The matcha theme also taps into one of today's biggest lifestyle trends. While matcha has long been popular in Japanese tea culture, it has exploded in recent years thanks to colorful iced lattes and social media. Fans love its earthy flavor and smooth energy boost, while others simply can't get enough of its signature green aesthetic.

Even if you're not a daily matcha drinker, the cheerful graphics and soft green color make this sleep dress from Target feel playful without being over the top. It fits right in with the cozy, slow-living vibe that's become especially popular for relaxing evenings at home.

Related: Target's $40 Boho Kitchen Essential Is a 'Stylish and Functional' Solution for Tight Spaces

Not every song has to reach No. 1 to become a lasting classic.

That was certainly true of "Sharing the Night Together." Released in 1978 by Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show, the heartfelt ballad spent an impressive 22 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 6. Over the decades, its smooth melody and romantic lyrics have helped it endure as one of soft rock’s most beloved anthems.

The song marked another evolution for the band.

Originally known for its quirky, country-rock sound and Shel Silverstein-penned songs like "The Cover of 'Rolling Stone,'" Dr. Hook gradually shifted toward polished pop and soft rock during the late 1970s. "Sharing the Night Together" perfectly captured that transition, showcasing the group's ability to deliver warm harmonies and emotionally resonant ballads.

Written by songwriter Ava Aldridge, the song centers on a simple but universal idea: taking a chance on love. Dennis Locorriere's expressive lead vocal gives the lyrics an easy sincerity, while the gentle arrangement of acoustic guitar, piano and understated instrumentation creates an inviting atmosphere that became a hallmark of the soft rock era.

Listeners quickly embraced it.

"Sharing the Night Together" climbed to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 while also reaching No. 1 on Billboard's Adult Contemporary chart. Its 22-week run on the Hot 100 demonstrated the song's remarkable staying power, making it one of Dr. Hook's biggest crossover successes.

"We like to change musical styles," frontman Dennis Locorriere told Classic Bands. "No Dr. Hook album or single has ever been alike. You can't look at any of our records and say 'Ah, ha! So that's what they are.'"

The hit also helped cement the band's second act as a soft rock powerhouse. Alongside songs such as "When You're in Love with a Beautiful Woman," "Better Love Next Time" and "Sexy Eyes," it introduced Dr. Hook to an even broader audience and established the group as a fixture on adult contemporary radio.

Today, "Sharing the Night Together" remains one of the band's signature recordings. Its easygoing charm, memorable chorus and timeless message have kept it in steady rotation on classic hits and soft rock stations, while its romantic feel continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.

"I get a buzz form the fact that something that I did way back when means so much to people," Locorriere told UKMusic Reviews.

Nearly 50 years after first climbing the charts, "Sharing the Night Together" stands as one of soft rock's defining ballads. Its remarkable 22-week chart run was only the beginning of a legacy that has made it one of Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show's most enduring and recognizable classics.

Related: 1974 Rock Classic, Named No. 1 Hit Song, Became a Timeless Motivational Anthem