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In 1970, Blues Image rode up the music charts with the song “Ride Captain Ride.” Written by Mike Pinera and Frank “Skip” Konte, the song from the blues-rock band’s second album, Open, peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in July 1970.

Known for its electric keyboard riff, “Ride Captain Ride” was a fantasy song about breaking free. Pinera’s wife, Valerie, told Songfacts the song was completely fictional despite speculation that it was based on Sir Francis Drake’s voyage around the west coast of America in 1579.

"'Ride Captain' is a story from his imagination,” Pinera’s wife shared. “I know when he was in the studio recording that album, they needed another song, and he wrote it on the spot. He came up with 73 from the keyboard having 73 keys.”

“Ride Captain Ride” was Blues Image’s only hit. By the time the song peaked on the Billboard charts, the band had broken up, with Pinera joining Iron Butterfly and Konte later moving on to Three Dog Night.

RELATED: 1976 No. 1 One-Hit Wonder Was Written in Five Minutes

Pinera once revealed he was under a lot of pressure to come up with a song as Blues Image ran out of studio time during the recording sessions for the Open album.

In an interview posted  by Classic Rock All Stars, Pinera recalled, “The producer came in and said, 'Do you have any more songs, because if you don't, this is your last day in the studio, I've got Steppenwolf and Three Dog Night out there waiting for studio time.’ So I said, 'Oh, I have a song,' which I didn't have exactly. “

Pinera explained that he shut himself in a bathroom and began to meditate.

“I calmed my mind, and I started hearing music,” he said. “I went out and sat at the piano, which was a Rhodes Model No. 73, which had 73 keys. So I say, 'Okay, I need a first word.' And what came into my head was 73. I liked the rhythm, and I went, '73 men sailed in, from the San Francisco Bay. . . . The song sort of just wrote itself from there."

Konte then came up with a melody for the chorus, and Blues Image recorded the song just in time.

While Blues Image didn’t last, Pinera left with nothing but fond memories of his four years in the band.

“So many memories of those times, mostly all great,” he once said in an interview posted by Blues.gr. “Blues Image members were real good friends. We were all united in wanting to be the best we could be. We would reach for musical moments that were way deep inside. Average and mediocre were not acceptable to us.”

Related: ‘70s Rock Supergroup Released Debut Album 57 Years Ago Today—‘We Knew That It Was Going To Be a Hit’

You might be the kind of person who loves to hit the local farmers' market on a weekend, stock up on fresh produce, and create a colorful dinner from the comfort of your own kitchen. Or perhaps you’re someone who reads up on your city’s latest restaurants to have earned a Michelin star, and you’ll anticipate a coveted reservation weeks in advance. Maybe food isn’t always a total experience for you, but you can still appreciate a wonderful comfort meal. No matter where you fall on the foodie spectrum, there’s a global cuisine that mirrors your vibe. Read on for which one is most in sync with your spirit, based on your birth date.

Each Birth Date as a Type of Global Cuisine

Read on to learn which global cuisine best reflects your personality, based on the date you were born.

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th: French 

You were born on a date associated with the sun, the luminary that rules self-image, confidence, and purpose in astrology. In turn, you stand strong in your sense of self, can be a bit theatrical, and adore luxury, which makes French cuisine a natural fit for your personality. From adoring the thrill of scoring a reservation at a spot like French Laundry to enjoying wine-tasting alongside a divine Beaufort cheese, or even visiting a corner patisserie and pairing a perfect croissant with your coffee, the full sensory experience of French food fits your full-bodied approach to life. 

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th: Italian

You were born on a day that’s connected to the moon, which rules intuition, instincts, and emotions. In turn, you’re deeply family-oriented and can very much appreciate the work it takes to create a cozy, flavorful, tradition-inspired recipe, which Italian food is known for. From a comforting steaming bowl of pasta mixed with your grandmother’s go-to sauce (or gravy) to a memorable risotto or fresh-baked loaf of ciabatta zipped in herbaceous olive oil, home-cooked or baked Italian dishes speak to your warm and fuzzy soul. 

OTHER: 4 Birth Dates Most Likely to Be Foodies

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th: Indian

As someone whose birth date reduces down to three, a number ruled by Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system that oversees abundance, expansion, and good fortune, you believe in going big or going home, which mirrors the vibe of Indian cuisine. With its flavor-packed curries, bright, colorful sauces and chutneys, and bold, often super-fiery spices, Indian cuisine mirrors your innate desire to live life to the fullest and to try something new every chance you get.

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st: Japanese

Your birth date reduces down to four, which is associated with Uranus, the planet of futuristic, forward thinking, electricity, and electrifying, sudden change. You love experimenting, striking out on your own, and prioritizing extraordinary, eye-opening experiences, which is why Japanese cuisine appeals to your spirit. From jeweltoned sashimi and sushi to dynamic ramen dishes and even fluffy Japanese cheesecake or pancakes, the artistic, playful, and innovative vibe of Japanese food reflects your own inner creative.   

Born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd: Greek

Because you were born on a day that reduces down to the number five, your numerological planetary ruler is Mercury, the planet of technology, transportation, storytelling, and cerebral energy. In turn, Greek food, which is often served family-style and therefore is often accompanied by lively conversation and, sometimes, wild napkin-tossing and dish-breaking, matches your lighthearted, curious, fun-loving personality. Mercury’s influence also means you love to try a little bit of everything, and with all its flavorful dips, breads, kabobs, and appetizers, Greek food also lends itself to tapas-style dining.  

Born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th: Thai

If you came into the world on one of these dates, you were born with the influence of Venus, the planet of romance, beauty, art, and music. You care deeply about bonding with others, cultivating pleasure, and bringing more aesthetic value to everyday moments. Thai cuisine, with its vivid colors, harmonious sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, palate-pleasing ingredients from coconut milk to lemongrass, and quite often, colorful restaurant spaces fits your M.O. 

OTHER: Your Lucky Crystal Stone, Based on the Week Day You Were Born

Born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th: Peruvian 

Your empathic, dreamy personality is informed by the fact that your birth date reduces down to seven, a number aligned with Neptune, the planet named for the God of the Sea that rules mysticism, spirituality, and illusion. As someone who is an artist and a poet at heart, your personality reflects the vibe of Peruvian cuisine, which features vivid, flavorful spices and bold flavors. From seafood-forward dishes like ceviches to deep, earthy Peruvian rotisserie chicken, the cuisine is vibrant and soul-warming, much like your approach to life. 

Born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th: British 

Because you were born on a date that reduces down to the number eight, you’re responsible, mature, and hardworking, thanks to this number being associated with Saturn, the taskmaster planet. In turn, British cuisine, with its fish and chips, bangers and mash, and afternoon tea time, reflects your affinity for tradition, comfort, and etiquette. A full English breakfast, with its meats, eggs, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, and black pudding, is a hearty representation of your grounded, salt-of-the-earth nature. 

MORE: This is Your Lucky Number, Based on Birth Month

Born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th: Mexican 

If your birth date reduces down to nine, you’re driven, intense, competitive, and bold, as you were born on a day associated with Mars, the planet of energy, sex, and action. Mexican cuisine, with its spicy salsas, bold, zesty spices, powerful moles, bright tomatillo and deep red chipotle, and fire-grilled dishes like fajitas, speaks to your innately passionate personality. And if you add a cocktail to the mix, you’d no doubt be a fan of one made with intensely smoky mezcal.   

UP NEXT:

If you're looking to book a vacation that beats the blistering July heat and avoids the swarms of peak summer crowds, June is the absolute sweet spot. To narrow down the ultimate early-summer travel map, we asked lifestyle PR expert and veteran globetrotter Lindsay Stein to round up the hidden gems, cultural festivals and pristine natural escapes you should have on your radar right now. Whether you're looking for an under-the-radar European escape or a rugged domestic hideaway, read on for seven bucket-list spots hitting their peak right now.

Related: The Brilliant Summer Travel Hack for Visiting Europe's Most Expensive Fjords on a Budget

1. Poland: Central Europe's Cultural Epicenter Krakow, Poland. Aerial view of Clock Tower in Wawel Royal Castle on sunrise

Friendly Planet Travel

"June is one of the best times to experience Poland," says the VP at Decker/Royal Agency. "The country's historic cities, lakes, and countryside come alive with long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds than its Western European counterparts."

While you can hike through the Tatra Mountains or stroll the colorful streets of the port city of Gdańsk, Stein highly recommends anchoring your trip in Kraków and Warsaw. In fact, Warsaw was just named one of the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2026, largely due to the massive buzz surrounding its brand-new Museum of Modern Art. June also kicks off open-air concert and food market season across Poland's town squares. For an easy, budget-friendly vacation, Friendly Planet Travel offers an comprehensive seven-day tour covering both major capitals.

Related: Be Prepared for a Riskier National Park Experience This Summer

2. Reno Tahoe, Nevada: Rodeo Dust and Craft Brews

Reno Tahoe

For an escape that effortlessly transitions from pristine outdoor adventure to high-energy city festivals, Reno Tahoe is hitting its stride this month. The region is famous for early-summer paddleboarding on Lake Tahoe, floating down the Truckee River right through downtown Reno and hiking mountain trails before the peak crowds of July and August arrive, notes Stein.

But the real draw this month is the legendary Reno Rodeo, running from June 18 to 27. Dubbed the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West,” this 10-day extravaganza draws over 140,000 spectators with high-octane events like extreme bull riding, wild pony races and a massive Western marketplace. If cowboy culture isn't your thing, downtown Reno is also hosting the BBQ, Blues & Brews festival from June 19 to 20, featuring mouthwatering barbecue and pours from over 65 global breweries. For lodging, the Grand Sierra Resort features the area's largest outdoor pool deck.

Related: Mountain Town Named Top U.S. Trending Destination—Why It's Worth Seeing Even as Snow Melts

3. Curaçao: The Caribbean's Historic World Cup Underdog

Sandals Royal Curaçao

Curaçao is always a stellar choice for Dutch-Caribbean architecture and stunning beaches, but this particular June, the island's energy is going to be completely unmatched. "Island spirit will be alive and well as Curaçao is the smallest country to ever make the World Cup," Stein shares.

With games kicking off in mid-June against soccer heavyweights like Germany, the island is engulfed in absolute football fever. To celebrate, Sandals Royal Curaçao is launching a "Vacation Goals" program, complete with beachside watch parties right on the water, game-day culinary specials, and exclusive soccer cultural tours that take travelers through the colorful streets of Willemstad and right into the iconic Stadion Ergilio Hato where local sports heroes train.

Related: 10 Caribbean Vacation Destinations That Are Perfect for Families

4. The American West's National Parks: The Ultimate American Road Trip Morning mirror reflection at upper Schwabacher Landing in Jackson Hole Wyoming

Trafalgar

If exploring the American West has been sitting on your bucket list, June offers a comfortable climate window before the intense desert heat sets in. To skip the logistical stress of mapping remote routes and scrambling to book park admissions months in advance, Stein recommends leaning into guided tours.

Trafalgar’s signature "Five Epic National Parks" itinerary charts a seamless, 9-day journey through Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Bryce Canyon, Zion and the Grand Canyon. Travelers can spot roaming bison and grizzly bears, hike among the hoodoos and take part in a meaningful "Make Travel Matter" experience with Yellowstone Forever that focuses directly on local wolf reintroduction and ecosystem balance.

Related: I Travel 100 Days a Year—These 8 Carry-On Essentials Are the Only Things in My Bag

5. Scotland: Castles and Contemporary Art Kelvin Bridge and the Lansdowne Parish Church on Great Western Road, notable for its giant spire, one of the slimmest in Europe

Trafalgar

With more than 15 hours of daylight to play with, June is an ideal time to take a deep dive into Celtic heritage with a visit to Scotland. Taking a rail-based trip from the historic streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow to the Highlands lets you experience the dramatic landscapes in an unhurried, slow-travel way.

Through curated itineraries with Brendan Vacations, travelers can access local hosts who are ready to share hidden city histories. Highlights include a walking tour of Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile, a visit to the immersive Johnnie Walker Experience, a visit to Eilean Donan Castle and a trek across the Isle of Skye, culminating in a tour of Glasgow's sweeping contemporary street art and grand architecture.

6. Montana: Big Sky and Off-the-Grid Ranches

The Meadows on Rock Creek.

The Big Sky state comes back to life in June, explains Stein. Visitors get "lush green landscapes, rushing rivers, wildflower blooms, mild but rising temperatures, active wildlife and over 15 hours of daylight." Because you're dodging the massive mid-summer tourist waves, you'll find plenty of open space to enjoy the best fly-fishing conditions of the calendar year.

For a luxury, multi-generational hideaway, look no further than The Meadows on Rock Creek. Sprawling across 2,000 acres, this all-inclusive guest ranch features just 10 private cabins along a pristine, private stretch of river. Stays are completely off-the-grid and come paired with gourmet ranch-to-table dining, guided horseback trail rides and shooting sports.

7. Costa Rica: Uncrowded Swells on the Osa Peninsula

Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort

While June marks the official start of the rainy season in Central America, savvy travelers know it also ushers in Costa Rica’s gorgeous "green season." "Adventure enthusiasts, especially surfers, can flock to Costa Rica’s southern Pacific haven, the Osa Peninsula, where they’ll find rising waves, fewer crowds and better prices," says Stein.

Perched right in the hills just minutes from Dominical's world-class surf breaks is Lamangata Luxury Surf Resort. Operating like an ultra-exclusive private supervilla with only six guest suites, the property comes equipped with an infinity pool hanging over the mountain's edge, a teakwood yoga studio and a dedicated adventure concierge. Guests can take personalized surf lessons on Firewire boards and enjoy organic, locally sourced meals harvested straight from the resort's on-site greenhouse and food forest.

Related: Why Repositioning Cruises Are the Low-Cost, Slow-Travel Trend to Watch Right Now

Mount Rainier gets the crowds. Olympic National Park draws the tourists. But just three hours north of Seattle, wedged between Washington and British Columbia, sits North Cascades National Park—a wilderness so dramatic it's nicknamed the “American Alps” yet receives a fraction of the visitors who flock to its more famous neighbors. While Mount Rainier pulled in 1.63 million visitors in 2025, North Cascades received around 47,000. That's roughly 35 times fewer people exploring a landscape that many would argue is more spectacular.

Fewer visitors means empty trails, available parking, and solitude—a rarity at American national parks. You can spend a day hiking without passing another soul. Camp without having to make a reservation months in advance. Sit beside a glacial lake without waiting for someone to finish taking a million photos.

Related: The National Park You Need to Visit, Based on Your Birth Month

What makes North Cascades worth the detour is its geology. The North Cascades Range is the largest glacial system in the lower 48 states and there are more than 300 glaciers across the park—more glaciers than Glacier National Park and Yosemite combined. Millions of years of tectonic collision created these dramatic peaks, which now tower over emerald forests and turquoise glacier-fed lakes. Standing here, you understand why people call it the “Swiss Alps of America”.

What to See and Do at North Cascades National Park

The park splits into northern and southern sections, with scenic Highway 20 threading through the middle. The drive ranks among America's most beautiful, climbing from sea level to 5,400 feet at the Washington Pass Overlook. Liberty Bell Mountain rises on the horizon.

Diablo Lake is the park's most popular sight. The water glows an eye-catching blue thanks to glacial flour—fine sediment suspended in meltwater. Stop at the Vista Point for a jaw-dropping view, or head out on the Thunder Knob trail, a moderate 3.6-mile hike that delivers panoramic views even for beginning hikers.

For stronger hikers, the Cascade Pass to Sahale Arm is considered the park's best full-day hike at 9 miles round-trip, with sweeping glacier and peak views, while the Blue Lake Trail offers family-friendly alpine scenery over 4.4 miles. 

The park encompasses more than 400 miles of trails, old-growth forests, and dozens of alpine lakes. Wildlife includes grizzly bears, gray wolves, and over 200 bird species. For adventurous travelers, backcountry camping and backpacking are major draws here.

Related: 3 Underrated Stops Along the Oregon Coast Between Portland and San Francisco

Why It Stays Empty

Confusing borders help keep it quiet. North Cascades manages three separate units—the national park plus two national recreation areas (Ross Lake and Lake Chelan)—which makes navigation tricky for casual visitors. There's also minimal infrastructure, meaning there’s no lodging within the park proper and very limited dining options. The park rewards preparation and adventure, not drop-in convenience.

That's exactly why it remains undiscovered. While other parks battle overcrowding and timed entries, North Cascades delivers something increasingly hard to find: wilderness, solitude, and scenery that rivals anywhere in the world.

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Paul Rudd revealed that he originally auditioned for a different character in 1995's Clueless.

On the May 28 episode of Therapuss, the Ant-Man star spoke to host Jane Shane about how he got cast in the cult classic comedy at just 24 and how he initially wasn't set to play Cher's step-brother and eventual love interest Josh.

The Alicia Silverstone film was the “second movie that I ever did, but it was the first one that ever came out.” The film is a loose adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma and follows a "beautiful, popular, wealthy" high school student who wants to do "good deeds."

The actor had just graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts when he landed the audition, although it wasn't for a specific role. The movie co-starred Brittany Murphy, Elisa Donovan, Stacey Dash, Donald Faison and Wallace Shawn, and grossed $88 million worldwide against a $12 million budget.

“I had gotten an agent and I'd read some scripts that were, you know, they'd send scripts. I'd try and get auditions here and there. And then this movie was getting cast," he explained, per People. "They were making this movie, and there were a lot of parts for young people, kids and stuff. So I read the script and I liked it. I thought it was smart, and I thought it was kind of interesting."

LOS ANGELES - JULY 21: The movie "Clueless", written and directed by Amy Heckerling. Seen here from left, Paul Rudd (as Josh) and Alicia Silverstone (as Cher Horowitz). Theatrical wide release, Friday, July 21, 1995. Screen capture. Paramount Pictures. (Photo by CBS via Getty Images)

When Shane asked Rudd if he knew how big the movie was going to be, he admitted, “No, not at all,” before explaining that the fim's success “was a bit of a slower burn.”

“I think with cable and DVDs and all of that, it was successful when it came out, but it wasn't a smash. I think just over time, it just kind of hung on," the actor, who is promoting his new movie Power Ballad with Nick Jonas, said.

Despite being unsure of its success, Paul noted that “there was something kind of exciting” after the cast's first table read, as they hoped they would make a John Hughes film for their generation. “‘Wouldn't it be cool to be in a movie that for a generation that this is a movie that they kind of will be able to quote later on and was important to them,'" he remembered them thinking during the filmmaking process. "But you never really think that will actually happen. And then it kind of happened.” 

If your standard airport routine involves dousing your hands in sanitizer the second you step out of the airplane bathroom, you are worrying about the entirely wrong part of the aircraft. While airplane restrooms definitely get a bad rap, a shocking report reveals that the absolute grossest, most bacteria-packed surface on a plane is actually sitting directly in front of you—and it's exactly where you rest your inflight snacks.

According to a study by Travelmath, which sent a microbiologist to collect samples across multiple major airlines and airports, your tray table is the ultimate germ hot spot.

The study measured bacteria using Colony Forming Units (CFU) per square inch, and the results are enough to make you rethink eating that loose pretzel. The tray table rolled in with a staggering 2,155 CFU per square inch. To put that into perspective, that is nearly ten times dirtier than the airplane lavatory flush button.

Related: 8 Carry-On Items for a Comfy Flight Every Time

The Airport and Airplane Germ Power Ranking

While conventional wisdom tells us to watch out for the bathrooms, regular cleaning schedules mean those facilities are sanitized much more frequently. Because cabin crews are under immense pressure to quickly deplane and turn around arriving flights, tray tables are often only given a thorough wipe-down at the very end of the day.

Here is exactly how the germiest surfaces ranked across the study:

• Tray Table: 2,155 CFU/sq. in.
• Drinking Fountain Buttons (Airport): 1,240 CFU/sq. in.
• Overhead Air Vent: 285 CFU/sq. in.
• Lavatory Flush Button: 265 CFU/sq. in.
• Seatbelt Buckle: 230 CFU/sq. in.
• Bathroom Stall Locks: 70 CFU/sq. in.

Related: The Gross Reason You Should Never, Ever Do This One Thing on Planes

How to Protect Yourself on Your Next Flight

Since the tray table provides a direct line of transmission for bacteria to hop from the surface straight into your mouth, navigating this germ trap requires a smart strategy.

First, follow a strict carry-on packing philosophy and make sure a pack of high-intensity antibacterial wipes is resting in your seatback pocket before you ever take off. Wipe down the entire tray table, the seatbelt buckle, and the overhead air vent dial the second you sit down.

Most importantly, never let your food make direct contact with the tray table surface. Keep your snacks wrapper-on, or bring a clean napkin to act as a barrier. If you're ready to trade the daily grind for a little bit of summer travel magic, just remember to pack the sanitizer alongside your favorite sunglasses.

Related: American Airlines Announces New High-Speed Wi-Fi It’s Calling the ‘Fastest in the Sky’

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If the shoes by your front door have started turning into a permanent pile, Walmart has a covered storage fix worth seeing. The bestselling Zimtown 10-Tier Shoe Organizer is on sale for as low as $14 right now, down from $31. It comes with a dustproof cover available in nine colors to help hide clutter, and it has over 1,700 five-star ratings.

The organizer features 10 adjustable tiers, so you can make room for taller boots or heels when needed. It’s also made with sturdy steel tubes and non-woven moisture-proof fabric, but the cover is what sets it apart from a basic shoe rack. You can zip it closed to help hide clutter and keep dust away, or leave it off for easier access to the pairs you wear most.

Zimtown 10-Tier Shoe Organizer, $14 (was $31) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

If you live in a small space, you likely already know that the best way to add more storage is to go up, not out, and this rack gives you 10 tiers without taking up much floor space. It can be used for everyday shoes, taller pairs with a shelf removed, or other closet extras that don’t have a designated spot. Some people have even said they use it beyond shoes, including for crafts, clothing, and workout gear, which makes the under-$15 price feel even more practical.

Shoppers have called the rack “very sturdy and compact,” describing it as a “space saver” that’s “extremely great for small spaces.” One reviewer said it “holds a lot of shoes and helps keep everything organized without taking up too much space,” while another noted that “it was a breeze to put it together.”

Related: Walmart’s 'Spacious' $129 Outdoor Shed Is Perfect for Organizing Garage and Patio Clutter

The rack can work in lots of different spaces, including closets, entryways, mudrooms, and unruly corners. Its rectangular shape makes it easy to place against a wall, and the covered design helps it look much more contained than an open shoe shelf. Plus, if one rack isn’t enough, you could place a second one next to it for extra covered storage while keeping the total cost low.

Shop More Deals

• Zimtown 4-Tier Bamboo Shoe Rack, $27 (was $42) at Walmart
• Ktaxon 6-Tier Shoe Rack with Covers, $14 (was $21) at Walmart
• Ktaxon 9-Tier Shoe Rack, $22 (was $45) at Walmart

If the shoes in your house keep migrating into one pile, the Zimtown 10-Tier Shoe Organizer is worth grabbing while it’s still on sale. It offers covered storage, 10 tiers of space, and nine cover colors to choose from, all for under $15. Be sure to snag yours now before the price goes back up at Walmart.

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In 1970, Conway Twitty scored one of the biggest hits of his career with a song that would become his signature recording and remain a country radio favorite for generations—that song was "Hello Darlin.'"

The country classic reached No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Country Singles chart on May 31, 1970, beginning a four-week run atop the chart that helped make it the biggest country song of the year. It would go on to become Twitty's signature recording and one of the most recognizable songs in country music history.

The song almost sounded very different.

While recording "Hello Darlin'," Twitty wasn't satisfied with the opening line. Producer Owen Bradley suggested that instead of singing the now-famous introduction, Twitty should simply speak it.

The decision proved unforgettable.

As the Grand Ole Opry later noted, Twitty could fill an arena with excitement by saying just two words: "Hello darlin'."

The song itself tells the story of a man unexpectedly running into a former love and trying to convince her he's moved on before admitting the heartbreak he's still carrying. Its blend of regret, longing and Twitty's distinctive baritone connected immediately with listeners.

Though "Hello Darlin'" peaked at only No. 60 on the Billboard Hot 100, it became a country phenomenon. The recording was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, the same year Twitty was posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. It was also included among the fan-selected songs featured in the Opry's "100 Greatest Songs" celebration during the organization's centennial year.

Before becoming a country superstar, Twitty found success as a rock-and-roll performer with hits including "It's Only Make Believe." After shifting to country music in the late 1960s, he quickly became one of the genre's dominant voices.

"Hello Darlin'" arrived at the perfect moment.

The song became his fourth country No. 1 and helped launch a remarkable run that eventually produced 40 chart-topping country hits, a record that stood until it was surpassed by George Strait decades later. Twitty would later earn four consecutive CMA Vocal Duo of the Year awards alongside Loretta Lynn and become one of country music's defining stars.

More than five decades later, "Hello Darlin'" remains one of those rare recordings that country fans can recognize instantly from its opening words alone.

Billboard ranked it No. 44 on its list of the 100 Best Country Songs of All Time, writing of the song, "This enduring ballad of heartache and regret became a common concert opener for Twitty after he changed his sound in the ‘60s from rock and roll to country. ... While Conway never revealed who he had written the song for, he regularly sang it directly to Loretta Lynn whenever the two performed together."

Related: 1971 Heartbreaker Became First No. 1 for Legendary Duo 55 Years Ago Today

John Fogerty was born on May 28, 1945, in Berkeley, California—the fourth of five boys raised in nearby El Cerrito by parents Galen and Edith. He grew up in a working-class household, where money was tight, but love was overflowing. At a very young age, John discovered gospel, blues and country music from Southern cities like Memphis and New Orleans. He'd never been there, but he felt them deeply.

By the time he was a teenager, Fogerty was playing guitar and started a band with his older brother, Tom, and two classmates from junior high—Stu Cook and Doug Clifford. They called themselves The Blue Velvets at first, before renaming themselves The Golliwogs. In 1967, they decided on one final name change—Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR).

With his go-to flannel shirt, a Gibson Les Paul and that signature raw, raspy and emotion-filled voice, John led the band on a truly historic journey to the top. From 1969 to 1971, CCR was the biggest band in the world—outselling even The Beatles.

Songs like "Proud Mary," "Bad Moon Rising," "Have You Ever Seen the Rain" and "Fortunate Son" became the soundtrack for a generation—and more than 50 years later, remain deeply embedded in American culture.

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But behind all of that staggering success was a devastating betrayal and heartbreak that nearly cost John his career, his wealth and his sanity. It started within the band itself. By 1970, the internal tension had reached a breaking point. As the group's primary songwriter, lead singer and producer, John ran a tight ship, but his bandmates—including his brother Tom—wanted more creative input with regard to the music. In 1971, Tom left the band.

Creedence Clearwater Revival became a trio after Tom left the band.

Photo by Central Press on Getty Images

CCR continued on as a trio and released their seventh and final album, Mardi Gras, in 1972. With Cook and Clifford now sharing songwriting and lead vocals, the album was a critical disaster—often cited as one of the worst farewell records in rock history. Six months later, on October 16, 1972, John officially disbanded Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Related: The Story Behind Creedence Clearwater Revival’s 1971 Hit That’s Storming the Charts Again

But the truly devastating blow was still to come. Before the hit songs and stadium tours, John was a young musician so thrilled about being offered a record deal that he signed a disastrous contract with Fantasy Records executive Saul Zaentz—a deal that stripped him of the copyrights to his own songs. So when CCR fell apart, John found himself locked in a creative prison. The harder he fought for his music, the tighter the legal knots became. And it all culminated in one of the most bizarre lawsuits in music history: In 1985, Zaentz served John with a $144 million lawsuit, claiming his new solo song sounded too much like an old CCR song. In other words, Zaentz was suing John Fogerty for plagiarizing John Fogerty—absolutely unconscionable.

During the trial, John brought his guitar to the witness stand and played both songs to prove they were different. The jury decided "The Old Man Down the Road" was not a copy of "Run Through the Jungle" and John won the case. But along the way, he racked up over $1.3 million in legal fees and asked the court to make Zaentz responsible for paying them. They did not agree.

So Fogerty appealed all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. On March 1, 1994, Fogerty won 9-0 in a unanimous decision. The court ruled that defendants and plaintiffs must be treated equally when awarding attorney fees, and John was ultimately awarded $1,347,519.15. It became a landmark ruling in copyright law that still protects artists to this day.

But his victories only proved that he didn't plagiarize himself and covered his legal fees. Zaentz still owned "Proud Mary," "Bad Moon Rising," "Fortunate Son"—every single CCR song Fogerty wrote. Every time Fogerty performed them live, or they got played on the radio, Zaentz pocketed the publishing royalties. (Think Taylor Swift vs. Scooter Braun.)

John made the heartbreaking choice to protect his integrity—he walked away. For nearly a decade after CCR ended, he essentially disappeared from the music world, paralyzed by the legal battles, the betrayals and periods of depression. Think about how often you hear CCR on the radio or on TV commercials and movie soundtracks—imagine writing all of those songs and hearing your own voice, knowing you weren't getting a single dime? And the person who was getting rich from your pride and passion tried to sue you for $144 million!?

But in January 1985, John came roaring back when he dropped his new solo album, Centerfield, with lead single "The Old Man Down the Road" climbing into the Top 10. When the album hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200, it meant John had released No. 1 albums in the '60s, '70s and '80s. Only five artists in history have achieved this feat: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, the Rolling Stones, Barbra Streisand and yes, John Fogerty.

Related: All the Times John Fogerty Had a No. 1 Album, With and Without Creedence Clearwater Revival, and What He’s Said About Them

To this day, the album's title track is one of Fogerty's biggest hits, but strangely enough, it was kind of an afterthought! "Centerfield" was first released as a B-side to "Rock and Roll Girls," but it became an instant baseball anthem. It even earned John the honor of being the first musician ever inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame!

But he wasn't just finding happiness in his new music. In 1986, John would find the love of his life—Julie Lebiedzinski—at one of his concerts. On April 20, 1991, the two were married in her hometown of Elkhart, Indiana. Julie became his rock, his manager and mother of their three children—Shane, Tyler and Kelsy. She even reunited John with another past love—his 1969 Rickenbacker guitar. He'd written every CCR hit on it and thought it was lost forever—only for her to somehow track it down and surprise him with it.

John Fogerty and family in 1998

Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd. on Getty Images

But on January 12, 2023, John got the one back that he'd been missing the most: the majority stake in his global publishing rights for Creedence Clearwater Revival. Every song he had poured his heart into as a young man was finally his again. "This is something I thought would never be a possibility," he said. "After 50 years, I am finally reunited with my songs." The next day, he added, "I have been waiting my entire career for this moment, and I am honored to share it with my family and with you!"

On August 22, 2025, John released Legacy: The Creedence Clearwater Revival Years (John's Version)—a brand new album of 20 re-recorded CCR classics that he now fully owns. (If that subtitle sounds familiar, it should: John was directly inspired by Swift's "Taylor's Version" re-recordings.) The entire album was a family affair, with John's three children—Shane, Tyler and Kelsy—playing instruments on every track.

Over the last 50 years, John Fogerty has given us a true masterclass on how riding through our hardest times can turn into our greatest blessings—and that's why he's today's quote of the day.

Quote of the Day by John Fogerty

Parade/CanvaPro

"Sometimes I think life is just a rodeo, the trick is to ride and make it to the bell."

If anyone knows what it means to hold on during tough times, it's John Fogerty. In one perfect sentence, he captures an important truth. We can't predict hard times and heartbreak and we don't know how crazy life will get. We simply have to hold on for the ride and keep the faith because incredible things are waiting for us.

Related: Quote of the Day: At 93, Willie Nelson Proves Blessings Add Up

Deeper Meaning of John Fogerty's Quote—Keep Holding On

When most people think about John Fogerty, they think about the hit records, the sold-out tours, the Grammys and every other accolade. But his path to incredible success was paved with legal battles, betrayals and a lifelong battle with depression. It's kind of like when you scroll through a friend, co-worker or relative's social media page and start to feel down on yourself—you have to remember that it's a carefully curated highlight reel. They're not showing the hardest challenges they've faced.

So whenever you start to feel like you're stuck in the dark, or like you want to give up, just hold on. Life is a wild ride and we have to hold on through the hard times to get to the better ones. Like John said, "The trick is to ride and make it to the bell."

More Quotes by John Fogerty

• "If you love what you do, you're going to keep doing it regardless of the obstacles."
• "I don't know that all the demons have been beaten, but I'm very, very proud of those songs."
• "A great song can make you feel something you didn't know you needed to feel."
• "Keep on chooglin'. It just means to keep moving forward, keeping a good attitude, and driving ahead."
• "Kids don't quite get what the consequences are until the consequences are due."
• "Other people want a career or success because they think that will help them find their personal life somewhere. I've done it the other way around. What I have is what everybody else is looking for."

Related: Next Up:

If you're lucky enough to have seen him perform live, Ed Sheeran's vast musical talents are plain to see when he's on stage — perhaps with guitar in hand.

For the last 15 years the British singer-songwriter, 35, has released a number of award-winning albums — and the hits keep on coming.

His latest is an electronic dance music (EDM) collaboration with acclaimed DJ Martin Garrix, an instantly catchy track that has placed Sheeran on a music chart he's never reached before, Forbes reports.

"Repeat It" begins its time at No. 4 on Billboard's Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart, where Sheeran appears for the first time in his career — and evidently breaking into the top 10 on his initial visit.

Meanwhile, the newly release collab has helped Sheeran repeat his placements on the Dance Digital Song Sales chart, where Forbes says he's enjoying his biggest week yet on the roster.

The track gets its title from the chorus: "Is this what you needed / ‘Cause I’ll find the faith in anything / Don’t fight the feeling / Rewind, repeat it."

"'Repeat It' music video out now!! Hope you guys enjoy it, it’s clips from both our lives over the last 12 years," Garrix, 30, wrote in the caption of his recent joint YouTube upload of the music video featuring both him and Sheeran. "Releasing this single around my 30th birthday together with Ed Sheeran feels incredibly special.. honestly the best gift I could’ve wished for!! ❤❤❤"

Check out the official music video below.

Fans have since shown their support of the long-awaited release in YouTube post's comments section. "Its beautiful, the way this video is about things that happening in their life while this song was delayed," wrote one user, while another person commented, "Ed Sheeran X Martin Garrix is like the most popular crossover we've all been waiting for!"

Jif is debuting a brand-new peanut-buttery snack option that's already turning heads—and fans of the iconic creamy (or crunchy—have it your way) spread can't wait to get their hands on it. It was announced that the food company is collaborating with Pop Daddy Snacks for an irresistible new release: Jif Peanut Butter Flavored Dipped Pretzels.

First presented to the public via social media in May, the poppable bites are a "bold snack made with big heart," according to the packaging. "Two pantry legends. One ridiculously good idea. Introducing JIF® x Pop Daddy Peanut Butter Flavored DIPPED Pretzels," an Instagram post was captioned.

Online, the official description makes it sound even more like a must-try item. "JIF® meets pretzels in this salty-sweet snack collaboration made for peanut butter lovers. Crunchy pretzels are dipped in a smooth, peanut buttery coating inspired by the iconic JIF®  flavor for the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy," it notes on popdaddysnacks.com.

A 3-pack of the bagged snacks—each 7.5-ounces—retails for a steep $27, which is around $9 per bag. Plus, the specialty item has an additional mailing fee: "US Flat Rate Shipping: $9.99," with free shipping not offered until customers hit $50.

Still, it's a pretty penny some peanut butter lovers are willing to pay. Early reviews are calling the snack "amazing" and "a perfect combination" of flavors. "The peanut butter is on top of the pretzel and [sic] is so creamy and [sic] tasty," one such reviewer wrote, adding that they "highly recommend" the snack.

"They are a 10 STAR! Excellent flavor. One bag already gone! Will definitely be ordering more today!! They won't last long," another followed up.

View this post on Instagram

Earlier this month, before fully sharing what they were up to, the brands teased the forthcoming release with an enticing note: "Some things just belong together. Like two pantry legends sharing the same shelf 👀 We teamed up with someone responsible for the GOAT spread, and things are about to get a little nutty around here 🥜🥨."

It's safe to say, fans seem pleased with the announcement; the excitement is palpable throughout the comments section.

"😍😍😍 - I’ve been waiting for this! Dreams do come true! ❤️🥨🥜," one person exclaimed, with another hyped response reading, "Omg I need these asap!!!😍"

A third proudly declared, "This isn’t a want. It’s a need!🙌❤️."

Someone else expressed intrigue, adding, "Hold onnnnn😮."

Meanwhile, a separate Instagram user has already dubbed the new snack "The best 🙌🏼."

Overjoyed commenters continued to pour in, dropping sentiments like, "Oooooo 😍👀," "YUM!" "Wow I need these 🔥," "Take all of my money," "LEGENDARY," and "Omg yes plz."

And two others chimed in to sum up the overwhelming response of shoppers, saying, "My stomach literally growled when I seen this!" and "Dreams do come true❤️❤️."

Related: Chobani Revives Delicious Top Requested Coffee Creamer Flavor for a Limited Time

Something tell us you're going to ace today's NYT Connections Sports puzzle. 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 Saturday, May 30, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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

Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Sunday, May 31, 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 May 31, 2026

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

• Yellow: See into the future.
• Green: Don't do that, in hoops.
• Blue: Glenn ____ was a famous bandleader.
• Purple: 1993 sports comedy.

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: FORETELL AN OUTCOME
• Green: BASKETBALL VIOLATIONS
• Blue: MILLERS
• Purple: CHARACTERS IN "THE SANDLOT"

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 #615 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• FORETELL AN OUTCOME: FORECAST, PICK, PREDICT, PROGNOSTICATE
• BASKETBALL VIOLATIONS: BACKCOURT, DOUBLE-DRIBBLE, GOALTEND, TRAVEL
• MILLERS: BODE, CHERYL, MASON, REGGIE
• CHARACTERS IN "THE SANDLOT": SMALLS, SQUINTS, THE BEAST, YEAH-YEAH

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: 8 'Shark Tank' Food Products at Aldi That Are Actually Worth the Hype

Weren't you aware that summer is also known as pickle season?

If you're fan and perhaps looking to expand your horizons, Trader Joe's has brought back a fan-favorite pickle product to the frozen section — but for a limited time. Now's the time to head to your neighborhood location!

"Just in time for summer (you know, pickle season) we’re introducing Trader Joe’s Dill Pickle Mini Falafel—vegan, garbanzo-based Falafel that get pepped up with an herby brightness from their partner, the Dill Pickle," Trader Joe's product description reads. "One bite, and you’ll discover a pairing so harmonious, you’d think they were always meant to be enjoyed together. We really wanted to reach peak pickle here, so we’ve taken it a step further and used the pickle brine to hydrate the falafel mix."

The description continues, "These Mini Falafel are supremely snackable, and ready to heat and eat on their own. Each 12-ounce bag contains about 40 Mini Falafel —so you can try them in an array of pickle-y preparations. You could add them to a mezze platter, or atop a salad for a pop of mouth-puckering protein. Pack them in a Pita with Dill Pickle Hummus and mixed greens for a tangy twist on the classic. For an extra pickle-y punch, why not dip them in Dill Pickle Mustard for a pickle-packed snack?"

Check out the Instagram post from recent years below to familiarize yourself with the packaging.

View this post on Instagram

And in a post from last week, the Instagram account @traderjoesobsessed plugged that the frozen find had returned to stores. "Welcome back these are my favorite pickle falafels the perfect size the perfect flavor," the post's caption reads. "I always try to grab three bags!!"

Fans also showed their support in the recent post's comments section. "OMG YES I LOVE THAT FALAFEL," wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, "Yay this is what I’ve been waiting for!!!!"

Ariana Madix is sharing her real feelings on Love Island USA season 7.

Madix spoke to People on Friday, May 29 about her experience hosting the reality dating show for the past two seasons. Madix told the outlet that hosting Love Island USA has been her "dream job" but it comes with its challenges.

"The worst thing is just being so far away from home," she said. "And on such a wildly different time zone, that I just feel very removed from life, which I guess can also sometimes be a good thing."

However, Madix shared how the real time nature of filming Love Island is something she prefers to her time filming Vanderpump Rules.

"I feel like there's less time to worry," Madix said. "Whereas I feel like before, shooting [Vanderpump Rules] and then waiting months and months for it to come out, I had so much time to overthink everything I did and said. This is almost, maybe, better for me."

When asked about the breakout success of season 7 contestant Olandria Carthen, Madix expressed, "I mean, I could've told you that was gonna happen. The girl's a star."

"The second I saw her casting sheet, I was like, I'm obsessed with this girl. I know I'm not supposed to have favorites, but she was my favorite cast member," Madix said of Carthen.

She continued, "I felt like I related to her on so many levels and I'm so happy for her and so proud of her, and I think that this is just the beginning for her, so I'm excited to see what she does next."

Earlier this month, Madix also shared with People that hosting Love Island is, "something that I think I would've talked about in my living room with my friends as a dream job I would love to have."

"When I got the job, I don't know that I would have expected what happened with the show to happen," she said. "The show really took off in a different way than it had before, and to be able to say that not only am I the host of my favorite show, but I'm also the host of the number-one show in all of streaming, scripted or unscripted, that's something I'm very, very proud to be a part of."

Season 8 of Love Island USA premieres June 2 at 9 p.m. ET on Peacock.

Lisa Jakub is remembering the late Robin Williams and significant impact he had on her mental health journey.

During a Mrs. Doubtfire reunion event in Los Angeles on Friday, May 29, Jakub, alongside her co-stars Matthew Lawrence and Mara Wilson, shared how Williams' openness about his struggles with mental health influenced her.

Jakub shared that Williams had spoken to her and Lawrence about mental health while filming Mrs. Doubtfire. Williams had struggled with depression and addiction throughout his life and died by suicide in 2014.

At the event, Jakub said Williams, "talked to me because obviously I was honest with him and he and I talked a lot about my issues with anxiety and depression and he shared a lot about his struggles in life too."

She continued, "And it was really the first time that someone was so completely open and teaching me to not feel ashamed of these things,” she continued, “and that there was help that I could get and there was support that I could get and I didn't have to feel like a messed up weirdo because of what I was struggling with.”

Jakub also noted that she has been, "greatly influenced by the fact that [Williams] was so accepting and loving and vocal with me about what he had gone through.”

Jakub remembered how Williams had supported her when she was not allowed back to school after Mrs. Doubtfire as they were “not used to child actors” and felt that educating her was “too much work.”

“I was very upset about this. Being kicked out of school when you're 14 years old is a little bit upsetting,” she said. "Robin was the kind of person that if he saw that any one of us was upset or not okay, he would check on us. He asked me what was wrong. I explained what had happened and he wrote a letter to my principal, which I still have. It was an incredibly kind, lovely letter saying, ‘Lisa is just trying to pursue her career and get her education at the same time, so can you please support her in that?'"

Jakub said that while the letter ultimately did not sway her principal, the story was, "not about the fact that it didn't work. It's a story about how kind Robin was.”

“It's a story about the fact that Robin saw some kid he was working with who he did not have to take the time to care about, and he wrote this unbelievable letter,” she continued. “And he really kind of went out of his way for me, which he did for all of us in various ways. And we all had different kinds of connections with him. And he went through the trouble to connect with us as individuals.”

“I can tell you it did not happen on every set,” she added.

Solving today's NYT Strands puzzle means a trip is in your future. 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 #819 on Sunday, May 31.

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: "Places to go"

A hint for today's Strands game: They can be hard to come by.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• MU
• BE
• MO
• CA
• RE
• MA
• TO (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is mostly horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for May 31

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, May 31, 2026, isTOURISM.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Sunday, May 31?

• MUSEUM
• BEACH
• MONUMENT
• CASTLE
• RESTAURANT
• MARKET
• SPANGRAM: TOURISM

Related: Ninja's Newest Gadget Will Turn You Into a Certified Barista with Just the Touch of a Button

During the mid-1960s, the Byrds were flying pretty high (pardon the pun). Thanks to such hit singles as "Turn, Turn, Turn" and their cover of Bob Dylan's "Mr. Tambourine Man," they were one of the most popular bands of the era. But while the Byrds are still considered one of the most influential bands in rock history, by late 1966, the musical landscape was starting to shift, with manufactured pop bands like The Monkees climbing up the charts...and the members of the Byrds were getting fed up.

“We’d watched [The Beatles film] A Hard Day’s Night just as we were starting out and were so enamoured of it,” bassist Chris Hillman told Classic Rock in 2017. “Then it all did happen. We started doing shows and girls were running after us and jumping on the car. But within a matter of two years, all of a sudden we were like jaded old men who’d been around the block a few times. It was sort of comical.”

“We’d had such a quick rise to fame, and it went to our heads a little,” agreed guitarist Jim McGuinn in the same interview. “But by late '66, early '67, we were going out of business. We were up at Chris’s house and going through the pages of some teen magazine, cracking up at all these one-hit wonders who would be gone by the next week.”

Hillman and McGuinn's frustrations inspired the now-classic track, "So You Want to Be a Rock 'n' Roll Star," which was released as a single on January 9, 1967. The song's somewhat cynical lyrics get straight to the point:

Sell your soul to the company
Who are waiting there to sell plasticware
And in a week or two if you make the charts
The girls'll tear you apart

The price you paid for your riches and fame
Was it all a strange game? You're a little insane
The money that came, and the public acclaim

While it's been widely assumed over the years that "So You Want to Be a Rock 'n' Roll Star" was directed specifically at the Monkees, Hillman insisted there was no ill will between the bands.

"The song was a slight jab — not at The Monkees as individuals, they actually had a very good gig making money, but at how contrived it was,” he said. “Roger and I weren’t blatantly writing about The Monkees. To me, it was more like we were jabbing at Hollywood’s smarmy, controlled process of that. It strips away all the soul and depth of the experience of a rock band. It makes it so vanilla, too clean and pretty. Since the late fifties, with songs like 'Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini,' manufactured pop music had been there. It all comes down to square one: profit.”

"I was friends with them — I knew Peter Tork and Mike Nesmith, we used to hang out together — so I wasn’t trying to put The Monkees down," McGuinn agreed. "The whole song was kind of tongue-in-cheek. It wasn’t a bitter condemnation of the music business. We found it funny; it was a superficial Beatles thing.”

Whether it was meant to be funny or not, "So You Want to Be a Rock 'n' Roll Star" has definitely rung true for plenty of other rock stars. It's been covered by such musical icons as Patti Smith, R.E.M., Pearl Jam, Nazareth, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, who covered the tune during their Southern Accents tour.

“I’ve always loved that track,” Hillman said. “We really nailed it.”

Related: 1979 Career-Defining Classic Was Turned Down by Another Band Before It Shot Up the Charts

The waters of today's NYT Connections puzzle might be a little rough, but you'll pocket a win if you follow the rubber ducky. 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 #1085 onSunday, May 31, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Sunday, May 31, 2026 / New York Times

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, May 31

1. Typically associated with happiness.
2. Sharks with good aim.
3. Thar she blows!
4. "What kind of floors are these?! They're gorgeous!"

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, May 31:

1. THINGS THAT ARE YELLOW: BUTTER, PIKACHU, RUBBER DUCK, SCHOOL BUS
2. BILLIARDS TERMS: BREAK, CUE, POCKET, RACK
3. SLANG FOR A SAILOR: JACK, SALT, SEA DOG, TAR
4. KINDS OF WOOD PLUS "S": SASH, SOAK, SPINE, STEAK

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: I Tried 10 Greek Yogurts From Aldi, and the Winner Won by a Landslide

For plenty early '80s music fans, just hearing the words "What about me? It isn't fair" is enough to transport them back in time. But one emotional rock anthem almost never happened.

Before becoming an international hit for Australian band Moving Pictures and climbing the charts around the world, "What About Me" came close to being left off the group’s debut album altogether.

Ironically, the track itself was inspired by a moment of being overlooked. Guitarist Gary Frost reportedly got the idea after noticing a young boy being ignored inside a Sydney corner shop while waiting for lunch, planting the seed for a song about wanting to be seen and heard.

"That image of someone being disregarded, yearning to be acknowledged became the opening line and set the tone for this track," according to Professor of Rock host Adam Reader.

As the song was nearly cut from the final tracklist on the band's debut album, producer Charles Fischer urged Frost and lead singer Alex Smith to record it, Reader explained.

The song became a hit almost immediately, topping the charts in Australia for six consecutive weeks. After gaining success internationally, "What About Me" peaked at number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100. It re-entered the Billboard charts in 1989, peaking at number 46 during its resurgence.