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As summer winds down, it’s time to start thinking beyond sandals and toward the footwear that will carry your wardrobe into fall. Knee-high boots are shaping up to be one of the season’s hottest styles, but you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to get the look.

That’s what makes the Dream Pairs Square-Toe Knee-High Boots at Walmart such a great find for just $49. With a square toe and chunky heel, the boots look strikingly similar to an iconic style from a premium leather footwear brand that goes for nearly $500. At a fraction of the price, they’re a budget-friendly way to embrace the fall boot trend now — whether you pair them with a late-summer dress or save them for jeans, sweaters and jackets once temperatures drop. 

Courtesy of Walmart

If you’re looking to step up your footwear game this fall, these knee-high boots are an easy place to start. These boots feature a sleek square toe and a 1.8-inch chunky heel that add a little height without making them uncomfortable to walk in. They’re also designed with a handy side zipper that makes them easy to slip on and off.

They’re available in four colors — black, dark brown, light brown and yellow. Shoppers can snag theme in sizes 6 through 11, including half sizes, so there’s plenty of flexibility when it comes to fit. The 15.7-inch calf circumference gives you a little extra room around the leg, making them easy to style over jeans, leggings or tights. 

There’s no shortage of ways to style them. Wear them with a flowy dress or mini skirt while summer is still lingering, then transition them into fall with jeans or a sweater dress. One Walmart shopper described the boots as “cute and affordable.” Another said they were “exactly what they wanted,” noting that they were “not as expensive” as similar styles from pricier brands. 

• Madden Girl Hailey Slides, from $24 (was $39) at Walmart
• Thyme & Table Pumpkin Charm Glass Set, $18 at Walmart
• Clarks Cloudsteppers Solevana Post Flip-Flops, $48 (were $60) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s ‘Beautiful’ Cowboy Boots Are a Fall Staple You Can Wear With Almost Anything, and They’re 43% Off

At under $50, the Dream Pairs Square-Toe Knee-High Boots make it easy to add trendy footwear to your fall wardrobe without spending a fortune. If you have your eye on a particular color and size, go to Walmart and snag a pair while they’re still in stock! 

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.

To solve today’s New York Times Connections puzzle, you’ll need to brush up on basic animal needs, phrases that signal the start of a performance, words that can precede “Kids” and familiar phrases beginning with “Once in a,” among other things.

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 #1167 on Friday, August 21, 2026.

New York Times

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

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

1. Important things to have.
2. Take your seats.
3. Children.
4. Not twice.

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

1. THINGS MOST ANIMALS NEED: NUTRITION, OXYGEN, SLEEP, WATER
2. CALLS TO BEGINS A PERFORMANCE: ACTION, CURTAIN UP, PLACES, SHOWTIME
3. ___KIDS: COMEBACK, KARATE, SUNDANCE, WIMPY
4. ONCE IN A ___: BLUE MOON, GENERATION, LIFETIME, WHILE

How’d you do?

Up Next:

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

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

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Despite not winning the crown, Miss Universe contestant Eneisy Rodríguez has won the hearts of pageant lovers everywhere.

The 33-year-old teacher, dancer, and actress represented Hialeah at the Miss Universe Cuba 2026 competition, held on August 20, 2026. Rodríguez made it to the Top 18, beating out more than 100 applicants since the process began in April.

Sadly, because she does not look like your “standard” beauty queen, Rodríguez was subjected to cruel attacks on social media over her weight and age. However, she took the high road and released a statement that should earn her the title of Miss Congeniality.

“Over the last several days, I have received a level of bullying that I never expected to experience. The negative comments started at the beginning of this journey, but they have become much louder recently. I wanted to address it, not because I want to give the negativity more attention, but because I made a promise to myself to always stay true to who I am,” she wrote.

“Reading comments saying that I do not belong here, seeing people criticize my appearance, and experiencing body shaming has been painful… Behind every screen is a real person with real feelings, and we never truly know what someone else is carrying.”

She went on to add that, as an educator, she teaches her students kindness, empathy, and that words matter. Rodríguez also hopes her journey has inspired others to remember that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.

“Every woman deserves to feel comfortable in her own skin,” she added, “to take up space, and to pursue her dreams without fear of being torn down for simply being herself.”

Following her statement, her comments section was flooded with support, with many of her fellow contestants defending her inclusion in the pageant.

You are beautiful and belong here with us!!! We love you Eneisy!!!” Miss Isla de la Juventud Mia Dopo, who was ultimately crowned Miss Universe Cuba 2026, wrote.

“It is such a source of pride to see women who turn difficult moments into a message of love. Keep shining with the same strength and authenticity,” Miss Pinar del Río Daniela Reyes added.

Rodríguez deserves a crown in our book!

Bob Dylan didn’t score a No. 1 Billboard hit with “Like a Rolling Stone,” but it became one of the most iconic songs from his catalog anyways.

Released in July 1965 as the lead single from his acclaimed studio album Highway 61 Revisited, “Like a Rolling Stone” became a massive folk-rock anthem. At more than six minutes long, the song marked a pivotal moment in Dylan’s transition from traditional folk to an electric rock sound.

The song never reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and instead spent two weeks at No. 2 in September 1965, during which it was blocked from the top spot by the smash-hit Beatles track, “Help!”

Billboard recently included “Like a Rolling Stone” on a list of the 100 Best Billboard Hot 100 No. 2 Hits, published earlier this month. The famous Dylan track was ranked at No. 10, behind other music masterpieces that missed the top spot, like Prince‘s “Purple Rain” and Queen‘s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

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But even without reaching the summit of Billboard’s Hot 100, “Like a Rolling Stone” still went down in history as one of the most celebrated tracks ever recorded. It’s ranked at No. 4 on Rolling Stone‘s roundup of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

Collider also ranks “Like a Rolling Stone” as the No. 2 Most Perfect Bob Dylan Song, behind only his 1975 hit “Tangled Up in Blue.”

These are the Top 10 entries on Billboard’s 100 Best Billboard Hot 100 No. 2 Hits. See the full list.

1. Queen, “Bohemian Rhapsody” 
2. Lady Gaga, “Bad Romance” 
3. Missy ‘Misdemeanor’ Elliott, “Work It” 
4. Prince and the Revolution, “Purple Rain” 
5. Kelly Clarkson, “Since U Been Gone” 
6. Marvin Gaye, “What’s Going On” 
7. The Ronettes, “Be My Baby” 
8. Dr. Dre, “Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang” 
9. Cyndi Lauper, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”
10. Bob Dylan, “Like a Rolling Stone”

Related: 1991 Rock Ballad by Pearl Jam, Never Released as a Single, Is Back on the Billboard Charts

Today’s NYT Wordle should make you think of the faint mark or evidence something leaves behind after it has passed.

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 #1889 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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There are two vowels in today’s five-letter word.

Today’s Wordle begins with a consonant.

There are no double letters in today’s Wordle.

A hint for today’s Wordle is: can mean to copy a drawing by placing a see-through paper over it.

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 on Friday, August 21, 2026, is TRACE.

-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)

Today’s NYT Wordle should make you think of the faint mark or evidence something leaves behind after it has passed.

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 #1889 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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

There are two vowels in today’s five-letter word.

Today’s Wordle begins with a consonant.

There are no double letters in today’s Wordle.

A hint for today’s Wordle is: can mean to copy a drawing by placing a see-through paper over it.

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 on Friday, August 21, 2026, is TRACE.

-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)

Rock music is mourning the loss of ZZ Top’s Frank Beard, with fellow drummer Matt Sorum among the musicians paying tribute to the iconic artist following his death at 77.

The former member of iconic band Guns N’ Roses and supergroup Velvet Revolver took to social media to remember his late friend as a “very special” person.

In a lengthy message accompanied by a throwback photo of Beard, Sorum delivered a heartfelt tribute as he bid goodbye to his fellow musician.

“RIP Frank Beard … The backbone of ZZ Top for 57 years with the best shuffle known to man. It might sound easy, but possibly one of the hardest things I’ve ever try to learn and still trying,” he captioned his post.

Scott Dudelson/Getty Images

Sorum spoke about Beard’s innate and strong musical instinct, especially his ability to play that distinctive Texas blues-rock groove that became a signature of ZZ Top’s music.

In his final farewell, he also offered condolences to Beard’s family, bandmates and crew, many of whom had been part of ZZ Top’s journey for more than five decades.

“A very special and unique man behind the kit. Condolences to his family and Bandmates and crew that have been out there for over half a century,” he said, tagging ZZ Top.

Fans chimed in in the comment section and expressed the same sentiment.

“Such a great loss, Frank was truly legendary to all of us Texans and of course others around the world. RIP,” one wrote.

“He was the pillar that held the band’s rhythm,” a follower added.

Others also shared their experiences with Beard and recalled seeing ZZ Top perform for the first time.

“First Concert I ever saw was ZZ Top. Still ranks high up on my concerts list. Sad day for music. Listening to ZZ Top. Never forget his beats. RIP Frank!!!” a commenter remarked.

“So sad. First concert was ZZ Top & Skynyrd in the early 90s. My mom’s first concert was the same lineup in 75/76 and so glad we got to share that,” a fan echoed.

The same goes for another fan who said, “Had the pleasure of seeing them numerous times. So Heartbreaking.”

ZZ Top’s longtime drummer passed away on Aug. 17 at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, while in hospice care with family members by his side, as confirmed by the band and his publicist on social media.

Through an Instagram update, ZZ Top shared a statement from lead vocalist and founder Billy F. Gibbons, who described his bandmate as a “great friend and collaborator.”

Moreover, ZZ Top also cancelled its “upcoming shows in Salt Lake City and Colorado Springs” to mourn the passing of Beard but promised that the schedule would resume for its The Big One! Tour on the weekend.

Related: ’70s Rock Legend Once Refused $1 Million Offer to Change Iconic Look

Sometimes a single song can change the trajectory of an entire career.

For Barry Manilow, that song was “Mandy.”

Released on October 7th, 1974, the sweeping ballad became Manilow’s first No. 1 hit and transformed the struggling singer into one of the biggest pop stars of the decade. Strangely, the song that would become synonymous with Manilow wasn’t actually his. In fact, the original version wasn’t even called “Mandy.”

Written by Scott English and Richard Kerr, “Brandy” was first recorded by English, becoming a modest U.K. hit in the early ’70s. A few years later, Arista president and legendary record executive Clive Davis heard something in the song and brought it to Manilow, whose debut album had been met with a lackluster reception.

It was in Davis’ interest to boost Manilow’s repertoire and confidence. He believed in Manilow’s talent and potential and had retained him as an Arista artist after taking over for Bell Records.

But Manilow was skeptical. A songwriter himself, the Brooklyn-born musician was reluctant to record someone else’s composition.

“‘Don’t give me somebody else’s song,'” was the proud singer’s indignant reaction, as reflected in a 2019 interview with the Television Academy Foundation. “But it was Clive, and, you know, I listened to it, and it was a rock and roll song called ‘Brandy’.”

Even after listening, Manilow was shocked that Davis considered this particular song a proper fit for him.

“He saw my show, he heard my album, and he gives me this?” asked an incredulous Manilow. “He thinks this is the career making song for me?”

But Davis believed the young singer needed a hit and encouraged him to give “Brandy” a chance, and Manilow believed in Davis enough to give it a go.

Manilow and producer Ron Dante went into the studio, initially sticking closely to English’s uptempo original. The results were disappointing. When Davis heard it, he agreed.

“‘What’s that?’ [Davis said] And I said, ‘that’s the thing you just gave me’,” Manilow recalled. “And he said, ‘that’s terrible,’ and I said, ‘I know!'”

However, while learning the song, Manilow had slowed it down, changed some chords and added a key change. Inspired, he played his alternate version for Davis.

“I went up to the piano and played him the ballad version of Brandy with my key changes, and my new chord changes,” said Manilow, “and he said, ‘Do that, just do that…do that.'”

The version that would become the worldwide hit had been established.

There was only one last problem. The song “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by the band Looking Glass was already a well-known radio hit from 1972.

“So we changed the name of Brandy and I played the slow version of that rock and roll song, which is now called ‘Mandy’, and that was it,” Manilow said.

“We put a small band behind it later on, and then we added ‘Mandy’ to that second album and my life changed and I exploded into a million pieces.”

Manilow’s vocal and piano were recorded in one take, with a band and small orchestra added later. And what happened next was history.

Released on Oct. 7, 1974, “Mandy” became Manilow’s first song to enter the Billboard charts. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on January 18, 1975, turning an uncertain cover song into the breakthrough hit Manilow desperately needed. It also set the tone for the easy-listening charts for the second half of the 1970’s. The song peaked on the UK Official Charts and Hit No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary chart.

From there, the creative valve remained open and a string of hits put Manilow firmly on the map of pop stardom.

“It’s a Miracle” and “Could It Be Magic” immediately followed “Mandy”, while Barry Manilow II became a Top 10 album and million-seller. Manilow was no longer a promising musician trying to break through. He was a bona fide pop star. And “Mandy” had established the blueprint for Manilow’s career as a balladeer.

Songs like “I Write the Songs,” “Can’t Smile Without You,” “Looks Like We Made It,” and “I Made it Through the Rain,” are just a few of the major hits that have secured Manilow’s place as a pop icon and a modern legend.

But “Mandy” was the song that started it all.

More than five decades later, “Mandy” remains one of the songs most closely associated with Manilow. What began as English’s uptempo “Brandy” found new life as a soaring love song in the hands of Barry Manilow—and became the career-defining hit that moved the world and changed everything.

Related: 1965 Folk Rock Song, With 21-Year-Old Singer From New York City, Became a Major Hit

For many fitness enthusiasts, the gym is a go-to place to work out. It provides access to a wide variety of equipment, group fitness classes, personal trainers and perhaps workout buddies who keep you motivated. But in reality, getting to the gym regularly—and investing in a pricey membership—isn’t feasible for everyone. Between a jam-packed work schedule, everyday errands, travel plans and family commitments, the convenience of working out at home simply can’t be beat.

The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune or have a huge space to create an effective home gym setup. I work out of a home office, and my husband and I mapped out a small wellness space that makes it seamless to weave exercise into each day.

Depending on the weather and my schedule, I also incorporate outdoor walks and bike rides. While achieving results in a home gym requires discipline and consistency, I’ve learned the flexibility it offers can make sticking with a routine much simpler.

Of course, equipping a home gym can become pretty pricey, which is why it’s crucial to be selective with the equipment you purchase. But what are the special pieces that deserve a spot in your space?

“The average person doesn’t need anything fancy; they need the ability to progressively overload, which just means gradually increasing the demand you place on your muscles over time. Whether that’s more weight, more reps or more difficulty in the movement itself, it’s important because it’s the actual mechanism behind building strength and muscle. Your body only adapts and gets stronger when it’s asked to do a little more than it’s used to, so without it, you can work out consistently and still plateau,” explains Brooke Harrison, founder and NASM-certified personal trainer at Asteria Health.

Below, Harrison shares her professional advice on what tools are worth the investment for your home gym. Here’s what to consider.

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If Harrison had to choose just one piece of equipment, she would recommend a set of adjustable dumbbells, ideally ranging from five to 50 pounds. However, when just starting out, a five-to-25-pound range works just fine.

“These are a worthwhile investment, as one set gives you an entire range of training options. You can do lighter, Pilates-style movements or you can load up and push into heavier lifts for progressive overload, which is what actually builds muscle. You can essentially hit every muscle group with dumbbells,” Harrison explains.

Keep in mind that, when training with dumbbells, form is key. It’s essential to activate your core while performing any lower-body exercise with dumbbells—like squats—to protect your lower back.

“A simple way to fix this is to follow a breathing pattern: inhale through your nose, letting your belly expand, then hold that breath for a couple seconds as you lower into the movement (the eccentric phase). Then, exhale through your mouth as you push or stand back up. That breath pattern helps keep your core braced and protects the spine,” Harrison instructs.

Versatility matters here because your body changes as you progress. Avoiding investing in new equipment every time your strength increases is something to be mindful of. That’s what makes a single set of adjustable dumbbells a smart purchase; they adapt to your fitness level and strength abilities.

Related: The 6 Pilates Moves Instructors Say Deliver the Quickest Full-Body Results

Next up, consider a set of glute bands in light, medium, and heavy resistance. 

“These are worth having because most people, whether they realize it or not, have an under-active glute medius: the muscle on the outer, upper part of your hip that stabilizes your pelvis when you walk, run or stand on one leg. It’s easy to have a weak glute medius even if you work out regularly, since most people focus on training the glute maximus (the largest part of your bum),” says Harrison.

Resistance bands are one of the most essential tools for engaging key stabilizer muscles—like the glute medius and hip abductors—before working out. Without that activation, it can be easy to load a movement incorrectly and place undue stress on your knees or other surrounding joints.

When using resistance bands, keep your knees from caving inward during exercises like lateral band walks or glute bridges. This mishap, known as knee valgus, reduces glute engagement by shifting the load away from the muscles you’re trying to target and toward the knees, which can cause strain. A simple fix is to mindfully press your knees out into the band the entire time to establish resistance and fire up your muscles.

Another faux pas is rushing through reps.

“Resistance bands are meant to be used with slow, controlled movement, so focus on moving deliberately rather than rushing through your reps. That slow, controlled pace is what builds the mind-muscle connection that makes the exercise actually worth doing,” Harrison explains.

Overall, resistance bands prep your body before a lifting session or deliver a speedy yet mighty warm-up. They’re small enough to pack away in a travel bag, so you can use them in your home gym or on the go—and this purchase won’t break the bank.

Related: This 2-Minute Move Is One of the Best Things You Can Do for Your Core, Instructors Say

The foam roller preps your body for a workout session. It supports myofascial release, which helps restore tissue elasticity, stimulate the nervous system and boost local blood flow.

“That pre-workout prep, often done with foam rolling, helps get your body ready to perform before you even pick up a weight. Simply roll slowly over each muscle group for 30 to 60 seconds before you start training,” Harrison says.

When using a foam roller, avoid directly rolling over the joints—like your lower back or knees. Harrison warns that your spine and joints don’t contain the soft tissue that responds well to foam rolling, so you’re simply rolling over the bone, which can feel quite uncomfortable. Instead, use the roller on the muscles running alongside your spine or wherever there is tissue to roll out.

The beauty of the foam roller comes in its versatility.

“You can use it before or after a workout and it’s one of those tools that supports everything else you’re doing, so you’re getting the most out of your training session,” Harrison points out.

Related: Fitness Instructors Say This Is One of the Most Overlooked Exercises for Stronger Legs

Before you get started using your home gym equipment, it’s important to have a solid game plan in place. Harrison structures her workouts the same way: warm-up, power primer, compound and accessory movements. Here’s what she recommends:

1. Foam roll for 2 to 5 minutes to prime and loosen up the hamstrings, quads, back and glutes.
2. Perform a series of stretches and a mini band series to activate the hip abductors and glute medius before lifting.
3. Move into a power primer to prep your nervous system for what’s ahead. Exercises may include light dumbbell jump squats—starting with 3 to 8 pounds—in addition to burpees.
4. Perform compound movements to fire up several major muscle groups at the same time.
5. Do accessory movements, which activate smaller targeted muscle groups. Upper-body exercises may include bicep curls into hammer curls; lower-body exercises may include split squats or reverse lunges.

Refrain from jumping right into training every day. Harrison suggests starting with strength training two to three times a week, following a split.

“A push, pull, legs split is a common one I recommend, where push days focus on your pushing muscles like [your] chest and quads, pull days focus on your pulling muscles like your back and hamstrings, and leg day rounds things out with extra focus on [your] glutes and calves. Another simple option for a beginner split is an upper-body day, a lower-body day and a full-body day,” Harrison points out.

In addition to three strength-training days, consider two to three days per week of 30 to 45 minutes of zone 2 training (aka low-intensity cardio), which could be a light jog or brisk walk.

When all is said and done, you don’t need anything elaborate in a home gym. The adjustable dumbbells, bands, and foam roller provide a simple system—prime, load, and recover—which can help your body to continue progressing.

Up Next:

• Brooke Harrison, founder and NASM-certified personal trainer at Asteria Health

“No one out pizzas the hut” no longer!

Iconic pizza chain Pizza announced a major name change for the first time since it was founded in 1958. For a limited time, Pizza Hut will simply be called “HUT.”

The company announced the change via social media on Wednesday, August 19.

“You can just call us HUT for the next 25 weeks 🏈,” its caption read.

The temporary change comes ahead of the 2026 NFL season and is in honor of the word “that’s called every snap for generations.” (The name will revert back to Pizza Hut after the Super Bowl in February 2027.)

The company is going all in, including coverage of the “Pizza” on storefront signage. A photo taken outside the Plano, Texas, location showed a large, red football banner hanging next to the word “Hut.”

In addition to the name change, “Hut” is bringing back its retro design style at multiple locations. Tiffany-style lamps, checkered tablecloths, red plastic cups, and vinyl booths have begun popping up across the country.

Dolly Parton has another major honor to add to her legendary career, though she couldn’t be in Nashville to accept it in person.

The country music icon, 80, received the Poet’s Award at the 19th ACM Honors at The Pinnacle on Wednesday, August 19. Parton appeared by video for the ceremony, just days after telling fans that health issues had prevented her from traveling.

In her wholesome prerecorded message, Parton thanked the Academy of Country Music before reflecting on the role songwriting has played throughout her life. “I just want to send a very special thank you to the Academy of Country Music for honoring me with the Poet’s Award,” Parton said in the video.

“You know, I’ve been able to do many things throughout my life, but at my core, songwriting has always been the most important part of who I am creatively.”

She continued, “Every dream I ever had and all the dreams that I’ve been able to see come true in life, well, they all started with a song. Songwriting has been my therapy. Songwriting has been my release, my joy. Songwriting has been a gift from God that has allowed me to touch people with words and music.”

Parton’s virtual appearance came five days after she skipped the Friday, August 14, grand opening of Dollywood’s new NightFlight Expedition ride.

“I’ve told you before, all my fans, that I’ve had a few little health issues and sometimes I get a little dizzy and I get dehydrated. And I’m dehydrated,” she explained in a video shown at the event.

Parton said her Nashville doctor had “kind of clipped my wings,” telling her not to travel that week. Still, she reassured fans that “all is going well on the medical end of things.”

The update follows several health-related changes to Parton’s schedule in recent months.

In May, she canceled her previously postponed Las Vegas residency, explaining that medications and treatments had left her feeling “a little swimmy-headed, as my grandma used to say.”

Parton has not publicly disclosed a specific diagnosis behind the recent cancellations. She has previously spoken about dealing with kidney stones.

Parton may be limiting some travel, but she still has several major projects underway. She is working on the SongTeller Hotel, the Life of Many Colors Museum, and the upcoming Broadway production Dolly: A True Original Musical.

Her last public appearance came in June, when she surprised fans at the opening of her themed truck stop in Cornersville, Tennessee, as confirmed by USA Today.

Ella Langley has given one of Toby Keith’s most emotional early country songs a new life, more than three decades after it first became a major hit.

Langley released her cover of “Wish I Didn’t Know Now” on all streaming platforms on Sept. 30, 2025, after fans repeatedly asked her to make the recording available. The song was first released by Keith in 1994 as the fourth and final single from his self-titled debut album. It reached No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earned a Gold certification.

Langley first performed her version during Apple Music Nashville Sessions: Toby Keith Covered, a tribute project created to honor Keith after his death in February 2024. The special featured several country stars, including Ashley McBryde, Riley Green, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney and Tucker Wetmore.

Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images

But it was Langley’s performance of “Wish I Didn’t Know Now” that quickly caught the attention of fans.

Langley said she knew almost immediately which Keith song she wanted to perform for the tribute.

“I knew instantly that ‘Wish I Didn’t Know Now’ was the song I wanted to do. Toby is truly a legend, and getting to put my own spin on this classic was an incredible opportunity,” she said, per American Songwriter.

The choice gave Langley a chance to honor one of Keith’s early hits while also putting her own voice on a song built around heartbreak and regret.

“Wish I Didn’t Know Now” tells the story of a man who suspects that his partner is cheating. When he learns that his fears were true, he wishes he could return to the time when he did not know the truth. The song centers on the pain of losing the peace that came with not knowing.

Keith’s original recording became one of the strongest songs from his debut era. It debuted on the U.S. country chart in March 1994 and spent 20 weeks there. It reached No. 2 on the chart dated May 28, 1994, finishing behind Tim McGraw’s “Don’t Take the Girl.”

The single also reached No. 17 on Canada’s RPM Country Tracks chart and later received a Gold certification in the United States for 500,000 certified units.

The song’s success helped establish Keith as more than a country newcomer. His debut album had already produced the No. 1 hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” along with other Top 5 songs. “Wish I Didn’t Know Now” showed another side of the singer by focusing on vulnerability rather than the bigger, more outspoken style that would become a major part of his career.

Keith died at age 62 on Feb. 5, 2024. His death led to a new wave of tributes from artists who grew up listening to his music.

His influence on country music was large. During his career, Keith recorded 19 studio albums and earned 42 Top 10 country hits and 33 No. 1s. He also sold more than 44 million albums worldwide, according to the provided career information.

In 2024, Keith was posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame after being elected shortly after his death.

Related: Country Icon Has the Best Advice for Ella Langley Amid No. 1 Hit Lasting 18 Weeks

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When building a capsule wardrobe, the best pieces strike a balance between timeless style, versatility, and comfort. One staple that checks all three boxes is the oversized cotton button-down shirt. It’s easy to wear buttoned up over trousers, layered over a tank top and jeans, or tossed on as a lightweight cover-up when the weather is warm.

One standout option is the Gap Poplin Big Shirt. Right now, it’s on sale for 51% off at Amazon, bringing the price down from $70 to just $34. That’s a great value for a well-made basic you’ll be able to wear in plenty of different ways.

Courtesy of Amazon

On Amazon, it’s available in five colors — black, white, red, pink stripes, and blue and red stripes — with discounts varying by style. The simple design also gives it plenty of staying power, so you won’t have to worry about it feeling dated when trends change.

The shirt comes in sizes XXS through XXL and has an intentionally oversized fit along with full rear coverage that makes it easy to wear with leggings or fitted trousers. If you prefer a more traditional fit, sizing down one or two sizes can create a slimmer silhouette while keeping some of the relaxed feel. It features a point collar, full button front, long sleeves with button cuffs, and a front chest pocket.

Made from 100% organic cotton poplin, the shirt has a crisp, smooth, lightweight feel that holds its shape without feeling stiff. It’s also machine washable, making it easy to care for and a low-maintenance choice for regular wear.

Related: Coach’s Classic Leather Totes Are Your Secret to Summer-to-Fall Style

There are plenty of ways to style it. Try a French tuck with high-waisted jeans or tailored shorts, wear it completely open over a fitted tank with straight-leg denim, or roll the sleeves to the elbows to give the oversized silhouette a lighter feel. You can also knot it at the waist or throw it on as a casual poolside cover-up.

One reviewer shared, “I bought this oversized shirt to wear with jeans and boots this fall. I also bought the green color. I love the size.” Another described it as “easy” and “comfortable” in a five-star review, noting that they “got many compliments” on the shirt.

• Gleeneat Button-Down Cardigan Sweater, From $15 (was $30) at Amazon
• Prettygarden Long Sleeve Button-Down Shirt, From $18 (was $43) at Amazon
• Zeagoo Short Sleeve Button-Down Shirt, From $13 (was $25) at Amazon

For a versatile staple that can earn its place in a capsule wardrobe, the Gap Poplin Big Shirt is a great bet. And with Amazon’s current 51% discount, you can save $35 and pick up this timeless piece for just $34 right now.

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There are certain home decor pieces that make a room feel more finished without taking up much space. A vase is one of them. Even when it is empty, the right vase can bring shape, texture and a little personality to a shelf, coffee table, mantel or dining table.

That is why sculptural vases are always worth keeping an eye out for. They can hold fresh flowers or branches when you want to decorate, but they also work as a standalone accent when you need something simple to fill an empty spot. The best styles look special enough to display but versatile enough to work in different rooms and through different seasons.

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IKEA

IKEA SKOGSTUNDRA Vase in White is a great example. Priced at $19.99, the vase has a fluted, ridged silhouette with a smooth ring around the opening. The glossy white glazed stoneware gives it a clean, timeless look that can work with just about any decorating style.

The vase measures 10 ¾ inches high and seven inches in diameter, making it large enough to hold a full bouquet, taller branches or a few oversized stems. It would look beautiful on a dining table with fresh flowers, on a console table with eucalyptus, or on a living-room shelf styled with books and candles.

What makes the vase even more interesting is its design history. It is part of the IKEA Nytillverkad collection, which brings back updated versions of classic IKEA pieces. Designer Ehlén Johansson originally created the vase under the name OPTIMUM for the IKEA 1995 catalog. The newer SKOGSTUNDRA version updates the original material to glazed stoneware and refreshes the shape and colors for today’s homes.

Related: Marshalls’ Radiant New Tiered Glass Vase Is a Gem of a Find

The vertical grooves add texture that helps the vase stand out, while the white color keeps it versatile. It can pair with warm wood, brass details, colorful flowers, neutral linens or darker furniture. Use it with fall branches in autumn, evergreen sprigs in winter, tulips in spring or simple greenery during the summer.

The vase is hand-wash only, which is something to keep in mind if you plan to use it often with fresh flowers. It weighs a little over four pounds, so it has a substantial feel that helps it stay secure on a tabletop.

At $19.99, this is an affordable way to add a more polished decor piece to your home. One IKEA reviewer called it “extremely well made for its price,” and its vintage-inspired roots give it the kind of character that often costs much more at specialty decor stores.

Whether you fill it with flowers or let it stand on its own, the SKOGSTUNDRA vase is an easy find that can make a space feel more intentional.

Related: Sam’s Club’s Beautiful 3-Piece Set of Antique-Looking Iron Pumpkins Is Giving Core ‘Halloweentown’ Vibes

Members of the popular ’90s R&B group Color Me Badd are speaking out after founding member Kevin Thornton’s daughter made shocking abuse allegations against him.

In an interview with Soft White Underbelly, Mikayla Thornton detailed her abusive childhood and alleged that she and her siblings grew up in a cult-like religious home. She also said that they were often beaten with a Bible or a stick her father called the “rod of correction.”

“I just want the world to know who he is and that the shame that we have carried our whole lives is not ours to hold,” she shared. “It’s his. It’s theirs. I’m freeing myself and my sister and my brother from this.”

According to Mikayla, her dad “denounced everything kind of related to God” during his music career, but “begged for God to come into his life” after meeting her mother and welcoming her older sister, Destiny.

She also claims her father allowed her to date a 20-year-old man when she was only 15 years old.

Following the interview, the current members of Color Me Badd released a statement supporting Mikayla and her siblings. They also reassured fans that Thornton left the group in 2016 and has no involvement with current touring or business operations.

“Color Me Badd is aware of the serious and deeply personal allegations recently brought forward concerning former member Kevin Thornton and members of his family,” they wrote on Instagram.

“We recognize the courage it takes for anyone to speak publicly about painful personal experiences. Our hearts are with Mikayla, her siblings, and all those affected by the circumstances described. We are lifting them, their families, and loved ones up in prayer during what is undoubtedly an incredibly difficult time.”

Thornton has deleted his Instagram page following the allegations made by his daughter, who wants “nothing to do with [him].”

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or visit their website.

In 2000, Deftones released their landmark album, White Pony. It features a moody, hypnotic banger with a famous duet between Chino Moreno and Tool’s Maynard James Keenan. That song was “Passenger,” and it’s been named the greatest heavy metal duet of all time by the readers of Revolver.

“It’s hard to overestimate the individual talents of Chino Moreno and Maynard James Keenan, so when blended in gorgeous harmony on one enormous song, the effect is mind-boggling,” the magazine wrote. “Such rings true on their 2000 pairingm ‘Passenger,’ long a Revolver fan-favorite and a shoo-in for the top spot on this list.”

Released in the summer of 2000, when Eminem’s blockbuster The Marshall Mathers LP and Britney Spears’ Oops!… I Did It Again dominated the charts, Deftones’ White Pony was making strides of its own.

A commercial and critical breakthrough, the album peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, with 178,000 first-week sales. The record became the band’s biggest seller, has since been certified double platinum by the RIAA, and earned a Grammy Award for the track “Elite.”

“We just had this idea of a sound, and we wanted to experiment with that,” Moreno told Revolver. “It was taking a chance—when we were already kind of successful for being a ‘metal’-leaning act—but it didn’t feel uncomfortable. It felt like a natural progression. The confidence that we had in ourselves at the time really led us to open up.”

Meanwhile, the album’s ninth track, “Passenger,” was never released as a single. But it grew from a cult favorite into an enduring alternative-metal anthem. Since its release, it has built massive streaming numbers, cementing its legacy through generational discovery. And its origin story only adds to its appeal.

Unfurling from a slow-burn gem to a heavy wall of guitars and dual-vocal wails, the song is flecked with influences of shoegaze, trip-hop, and alternative art-rock. And though it’s celebrated as one of the genre’s greatest duets of all time, Keenan actually was never supposed to be on the track.

As Revolver told it, Keenan was hanging out with Deftones when he seized the microphone and ended up turning their song into one of metal’s most memorable vocal collaborations.

“It was a pretty organic collaboration,” Moreno told The Ringer in 2020, celebrating the album’s 20th anniversary. “It wasn’t like, ‘Oh, I wanna get the guy from Tool on the record.’ It was someone I was hanging out with a lot, sharing a lot with.”

He added, “We were both in the writing state then. The way that we wrote, line by line, was a pretty rad way to collaborate, especially these days when it’s over the internet or whatever. Being in that moment, in the same room, was really something special.”

Currently, Deftones are on a major international tour, with a European and U.K. leg underway this month in support of their latest studio album, Private Music, which features tracks including “My Mind is a Mountain” and “Milk of the Madonna.”

As for Keenan, he’s preparing to open a new restaurant called Queen B Sushi on Sept. 4 in Old Town Cottonwood, Arizona. The sushi spot, which he is opening with his wife, Jennifer, is the latest addition to the couple’s growing culinary and wine empire in the Verde Valley. Another great collaboration.

Related: 1968 Pop-Rock Hit, Covered 58 Years Later by Madonna, Launched a 19-Year-Old’s Career

Some songs take on a life of their own, long after they’re written, and that was certainly the case for the 1973 David Essex classic “Rock On.”

Originally, Essex intended for “Rock On” to be played during the end of the movie That’ll Be the Day, which he was starring in with Ringo Starr and Keith Moon. (Essex was also an actor, known for playing Jesus in the London production of Godspell in 1971.) Unfortunately, the movie’s producer, David Puttnam, thought the song was “too weird” for the film…but that was just as well for Essex, because he used the track to land a record deal with CBS.

As Essex explained to Circus in 1976, despite the initial interest “Rock On,” CBS wanted to release a different song as the lead single from his album (also titled Rock On).

“We did a deal with CBS and they actually wanted to push the flipside, which was a more conventional song, but I said ‘No, I’ve had three years of people telling me what I should do,'” Essex said. “But when ‘Rock On’ came out I was actually surprised it did so well. It was very sweet success because it was exactly what I wanted — the song, the production, the attitude — it’s one of my favorite records, no matter whether I recorded it.”

A sweet success, indeed: “Rock On” was the biggest hit Essex would ever have in the U.S., where it peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. In a 1991 interview, Essex said the song “crystalized and taught a lot of things to me because it was such a different record, such a different production, such a different song to anything that has ever been out. It was totally out on its own.”

Another actor/musician, The Young and the Restless star Michael Damian, had even better luck with “Rock On” when he covered the song years later. Damian, who grew up listening to the song, recorded his own version in his home studio with his brothers Tom and Larry, according to Songfacts.

Though Damian’s record label wasn’t interested, when Tom and Larry got jobs working on the 1989 movie Dream a Little Dream (starring Corey Feldman and Corey Haim), they played the track for director Mark Rocco. Rocco ended up liking the song so much, he included it in the movie, and when it was released as a single it went all the way to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

That was Damian’s only big hit, but it wasn’t the last time “Rock On” would be covered. In 2006, Def Leppard recorded their own take on the tune for Yeah!, their tribute to ’60s and ’70s rock bands. It went on to become one of their live concert staples.

Related: This Iconic ’80s Rock Band’s Only #1 Hit Wasn’t the Song You’d Expect

In 1962, Smokey Robinson heard a Sam Cooke song that sparked an idea. While in New York on business for Motown, he went back to his hotel room and wrote “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me.” The Miracles’ version became a Top 10 hit, and The Beatles recorded it the following year.

The song that got the wheels turning was Cooke’s “Bring It on Home to Me,” a chart hit at the time. Robinson wanted to write something with a similar feel, and by the time he returned to his room, the lyrics and melody were beginning to take shape. 

The Miracles recorded it at Motown’s Studio A on October 16, 1962. Robinson sang lead and produced the session, while Bobby Rogers provided harmony. Eddie Willis and fellow Miracle Marv Tarplin played guitar. 

Released by Tamla on November 9, 1962, the song was originally tucked away as the B-side of “Happy Landing.” But radio DJs started giving it more attention, and it quickly became the bigger hit. 

“You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” climbed to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached No. 1 on the R&B chart. It also became the Miracles’ second million-selling single after “Shop Around.” 

The song’s popularity didn’t stop with The Miracles. In 1963, the Fab Four recorded “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” for With the Beatles, their second British studio album. 

John Lennon and George Harrison took turns on lead vocals, while Paul McCartney added harmony. The Beatles recorded the song on July 18, 1963, and it became one of several American R&B and Motown-influenced songs included on their early albums. 

In The Beatles Anthology, McCartney reflected on the group’s willingness to record songs that weren’t necessarily considered the obvious choice for a rock band. 

“A lot of our tracks may not have been ‘cool,’” he said. “But that was a great aspect of us. John would do ‘A Shot of Rhythm and Blues’ or ‘You Really Got a Hold on Me’ — you could call that cool.”

Robinson was thrilled to see the song reach the Beatles’ audience. In his autobiography, Smokey: Inside My Life, he recalled meeting the group after they had recorded their version.

“We found our fans there as fanatical as the dolls and dudes in Detroit,” Robinson wrote. “It was wonderful to learn that we were loved by people living so far away.”

He remembered that The Beatles were particularly enthusiastic about Motown and said they were “not only respectful of us, they were downright worshipful.” 

That mutual admiration says a lot about how far Robinson and The Miracles’ music had traveled. More than six decades later, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” remains one of the group’s best-known songs.

The original became a million-selling hit and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. The Beatles’ version helped give the song another life, and numerous other artists have recorded it over the years, including The Zombies. 

Related: 1975 Folk-Rock Ballad, Written by Bob Dylan, Is Still a Powerful Listen 51 Years Later

To solve today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle, you’ll need to brush up on candy history, Asian geography, reptile and fish features, financial idioms, famous landmarks, common conversational phrases, gentle musical sounds, jewelry slogans and expressions of sadness, among other things.

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

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

So, if you’re working on today’s Mini Crossword on Thursday, August 20, and need some help (I’ve been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both “Across” and “Down” words, followed by “Across Answers” and “Down Answers,” so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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

1 Across: With 8-Across, candy pieces that got their name after the chocolatier tried to make them perfectly round, but failed — HINT: Starts with the letter “M”

5 Across: Home of Brunei and Bhutan — HINT: Ends with the letter “A”

6 Across: Like the skin of snakes and fish — HINT: Starts with the letter “S”

7 Across: Take ___ (suffer financially) — HINT: Starts with the letter “A”

8 Across: See 1-Across — HINT: Ends with the letter “D”

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

1 Down: ___ Picchu — HINT: Starts with the letter “M”

2 Down: “To repeat myself …” — HINT: Ends with the letter “D”

3 Down: Gentle musical melodies — HINT: Starts with the letter “L”

4 Down: What “every kiss begins with, “in jewelry ads — HINT: Ends with the letter “Y”

6 Down: Wearing an upside-down smile — HINT: Ends with the letter “D”

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

1 Across: With 8-Across, candy pieces that got their name after the chocolatier tried to make them perfectly round, but failed — MILK

5 Across: Home of Brunei and Bhutan — ASIA

6 Across: Like the skin of snakes and fish — SCALY

7 Across: Take ___ (suffer financially) — AHIT

8 Across: See 1-Across — DUDS

1 Down: ___ Picchu — MACHU

2 Down: “To repeat myself …” — ISAID

3 Down: Gentle musical melodies — LILTS

4 Down: What “every kiss begins with, “in jewelry ads — KAY

6 Down: Wearing an upside-down smile — SAD

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Thursday, August 20, 2026

When you are putting together a meal for friends or family, the little details can make the table feel just as special as the main dish. A simple dinner becomes more inviting when sauces, toppings and snacks have their own place instead of being served straight from their original containers.

That is where stylish serving pieces come in. You do not need a huge collection of formal tableware to make an impact. A small, versatile condiment set can work for everything from weeknight taco toppings to holiday appetizers, charcuterie boards, brunch spreads and dinner parties.

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Anthropologie

Anthropologie’s Marble Condiment Set With Spoons is a beautiful hosting piece designed to elevate those smaller serving moments. Priced at $78, the set includes three marble bowls, three matching tops, an acacia-wood tray, and three coordinating spoons. It is a complete setup that looks polished on a dining table, kitchen island, buffet or coffee table.

The three bowls are made from marble, which gives each one natural veining and variation. No two pieces will look exactly alike, so the set has a more collected, artisan feel than standard matching serving bowls. The natural marble also pairs beautifully with the warm acacia wood tray, creating a mix of materials that works with modern, rustic, traditional and eclectic decor styles.

Related: The Perfect Whimsigoth Home Find Is at IKEA for Just $15

Use the bowls to serve sauces, dips, olives, nuts, flaky salt, spices, honey or cocktail garnishes. For a taco night, fill them with salsa, sour cream, and chopped cilantro. At brunch, use them for berries, sugar and jam. You could even set out a tray with three types of salt or seasonings near the stove for a more elevated everyday cooking setup.

The set measures 10 inches long, 4.25 inches high and 3.25 inches wide, so it is compact enough for smaller tables but substantial enough to make a statement. Each bowl sits neatly on the tray, which makes it easy to carry from the kitchen to the table when it is time to serve.

The spoons are made of aluminum and stainless steel, giving the set a sleek, durable finish. Because the bowls are marble and the tray is wood, the full set should be hand-washed rather than placed in the dishwasher.

At $78, it is more of a decorative serving piece than an everyday plastic condiment holder. But if you love hosting—or want a thoughtful housewarming, wedding or hostess gift—it is the kind of piece people will reach for again and again. It proves that even the smallest details on the table can make a meal feel more memorable.

Related: Anthropologie’s New Halloween Tumbler Is So Eerily Cute, It’ll Put a Spell on You