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1983 Country Ballad, Reimagined by Ella Langley, Still Holds Up 43 Years Later
Rising country superstar Ella Langley once put her own spin on the beloved country classic, “You Look So Good in Love.”
Originally recorded by George Strait in the ’80s, “You Look So Good in Love” became one of the defining songs of the country legend’s early career, making it a fitting choice for Langley — whose career has been taking off in recent years — to put her own spin on the timeless country track.
Langley, 27, previously shared her tender version of the Strait classic in a video posted to social media, where she used nothing but an acoustic guitar and her mesmerizing vocals to bring her own flair to the decades-old country standard.
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Many fans online were instantly impressed by Langley’s take on the song, which gave one Instagram user “goosebumps” as they listened to her “chilling rendition.”
“Classic and beautiful,” another fan commented under the clip, while more users chimed in to complement Langley’s “smokey voice” and “old school vibes.”
Written by Glen Ballard, Rory Bourke, and Kerry Chater, “You Look So Good in Love” was released in September 1983 as the lead single from Strait’s third studio album, Right or Wrong. It became Strait’s third song to hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, behind his earlier chart-toppers “Fool Hearted Memory” and “A Fire I Can’t Put Out.” The country icon has since tallied 44 Billboard No. 1s, and a grand total of 60 No. 1 songs over the course of his career if you include entries on non-Billboard charts.
As for Langley, it appears that the rising country songstress is just getting started. With the release of her second studio album, Dandelion, and her hit single “Choosin’ Texas,” Langley has already been dominating the charts in recent weeks. She is close to making history after reigning atop of the Hot 100 for a whopping 18 weeks — and counting.
Related: Ella Langley’s New Duet Debuts on Billboard Amid Her Historic Chart Run
Walmart’s Washable $23 Scalloped Floral Area Rug Has 'Gorgeous' Cottagecore Charm and Feels 'Very Soft'
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Cottagecore was once a viral trend, but it’s now a staple aesthetic for fashion and home decor. Filled with all things nature-inspired, romantic, and whimsical, it captures the essence of a slow-paced and dreamy lifestyle. If you want to incorporate this aesthetic into your everyday life, you could add some gingham or ruffled pieces to your wardrobe, or decorate your home with wicker baskets and floral decor.
@cozyinchicagoLast spring at home 🏡 🌼 #homedecor #spring #fypシ゚viral #cottagecore #springtok
♬ som original – Sound_HaveThis Berthmeer Scalloped Floral Area Rug at Walmart is a fabulous option you can use to make your living space look like a storybook cottage. There’s no better time than right now to grab it because it’s currently on sale for a limited time with a Walmart flash deal.
Normally retailing for $43, the 3-foot-by-5-foot rug is now marked down to either $23 or $24 in six styles. You can choose from a black, a navy, two beige, and two green styles. It’s also available in another beige style and a jute version, which are currently priced between $29 and $30.
Berthmeer Scalloped Floral Area Rug, From $23 (was $43) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThis area rug also comes in four larger sizes, including 5 feet by 7 feet, 6 feet by 9 feet, 8 feet by 10 feet, and 9 feet by 12 feet. Those are on sale for up to 51% off and start at $36, $53, $63, and $110, respectively. You can also get this rug as a 2-foot-by-3-foot doormat starting at just $11, a 2-foot-by-6-foot runner for as low as $22, or a 2-foot-by-8-foot runner on sale from $27.
Oozing with cottagecore charm, this rug features a stunning botanical print and playful scalloped edges that radiate whimsical elegance. It’s filled with flowers and leaves of different shapes, sizes, and hues. The pattern is dense, creating an eye-catching design that’ll make your rug a focal point and instantly elevate your living space.
“This is a very soft and lovely rug!” one reviewer raved, adding that “the design is just gorgeous.” A second shopper commented that this is “the prettiest rug” they’ve ever had. A third customer mentioned that it’s “so cute” and perfect for their home office.
This rug makes decorating effortless, accenting your floors and bringing your space to life. It’ll tie all your furniture together and make the appearance of your room look intentional. You can place it anywhere in your home, whether it’s in the center of your living room, underneath your dining room table, or next to your bed.
Berthmeer Scalloped Floral Area Rug, From $23 (was $43) at Walmart Shop at WalmartMade of polyester, this rug has a smooth texture, giving your feet a comfortable place to rest or walk on. Underneath the polyester, it boasts sponge and silica gel, offering some cushion. The backside of the rug has a non-slip design, ensuring that it stays in place. This also makes it ideal if you have children or pets, as it’ll prevent them from tripping as they run around.
This area rug has a low-pile profile, which means that you should be able to put it near doorways without it getting caught underneath the door when it opens and closes. You’ll also be able to place furniture on top of the rug without the pieces wobbling around or feeling unstable.
Because the strands are short, it’s difficult for this rug to collect dirt, dust, and hair, making it pet-friendly and easy to care for. Whenever it needs a quick refresh, you can go over the rug with a vacuum cleaner. If you want to give it a deep clean, toss it into the washing machine with cold water.
Shop More Deals- Domaci 2-Pack of Scalloped Wicker Baskets, $30 (was $47) at Walmart
- Scidweet 4-Pack of Faux Hydrangeas, From $17 (was $30) at Walmart
- Dokotoo Gingham Ruffled Blouse, $19 (was $33) at Walmart
If your home could use a bit of sprucing up, elevate it with the Berthmeer Scalloped Floral Area Rug. Head to Walmart right now and snag it while it’s still on sale starting at just $23!
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New Details Emerge in Nick Reiner's Murder Case After Grand Jury Testimony
New details have emerged in the murder case involving Nick Reiner following testimony before the grand jury that ultimately indicted him.
Reiner’s siblings, Jake Reiner and Romy Reiner, both testified before the grand jury before their brother was indicted on two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of their parents, Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, according to a new report by People.
While it’s unclear exactly what Romy and Jake said during their testimony, the grand jury ultimately indicted Nick in December 2025.
“This was a profound betrayal by someone who was loved and trusted by the very people he is accused of killing,” Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said after the indictment was unsealed, per People. “The indictment unsealed today also adds a special circumstance allegation that the defendant committed the murders by means of lying in wait.”
Hochman added, “We hope that by having a grand jury return an indictment in this case, it will bring us one step closer to a trial and achieving justice.”
Nick has pleaded not guilty to all charges filed against him.
As Parade previously reported, Rob and Michele were found slain inside their Brentwood, California, home on December 14, 2025. It was later revealed that the A Few Good Men director was involved in a verbal altercation with his son at a holiday party hosted by Conan O’Brien the night before the murders.
Nick was located and taken into custody hours after the bodies were discovered. He has remained behind bars without bail at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in Los Angeles.
If convicted, Nick is facing life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty. He is due back in court for a pretrial hearing on September 15.
Dr. Scholl’s ‘Sleek’ Loafers Pair a Polished Look With ‘Extremely Comfortable’ Cushioning, Now 50% Off
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Most of us have had a less-than-desirable experience with dress shoes at some point, whether it happened on the first day of school, during a long workday, or halfway through an important event. Too often, a polished pair comes with a side of pinching, rubbing, cramped toes, or an urge to count down the minutes until you can kick them off. Eventually, you learn your lesson and reach for flats or sneakers instead. But you don’t necessarily have to choose between looking put-together and keeping your feet comfortable.
Consider the Dr. Scholl’s Ruler Slip-On Loafer an olive branch between your feet and your dress-shoe collection. They’re $40 at Amazon, down from a typical $80, giving you a chic yet comfort-focused option at half the usual price.
Dr. Scholl’s Ruler Slip-On Loafer, From $40 (were $80) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe loafer-meets-ankle-boot silhouette gives this pair a little more structure than your standard slip-on flat. The microsuede upper has a soft, subtly textured finish, while the higher-cut sides wrap toward the ankle to create the look of a low-profile shootie. A deep V-shaped opening breaks up the otherwise streamlined upper, and the overlapping panels give the vamp a clean, tailored appearance without adding hardware or embellishment. The rounded toe keeps the shape classic, while a contrasting pull tab at the heel adds a small utilitarian detail. There’s also a 1-inch stacked heel, which provides just a touch of lift while maintaining the easy, everyday feel of a flat.
There are some thoughtful details hidden inside that pared-back design, too. Interior gore adds stretch through the opening, making the shoe easier to slip on and off while giving the upper extra flexibility once it’s on your foot. Underfoot, the brand’s insole technology combines anatomical cushioning, comfort, and support, while the lightweight, flexible construction is designed to bend and move naturally with each step. The low stacked heel has a broad base for added stability, and the streamlined outsole keeps the shoe from feeling overly chunky.
Dr. Scholl’s Ruler Slip-On Loafer, From $40 (were $80) at Amazon Shop at AmazonSustainability also factors into the construction of these shoes. The microsuede is made using recycled bottles, as are the fabric toe box, lining, and topcloth, while the heel counter incorporates recycled materials as well. Along with the black microsuede, the style is also available in a taupe microsuede and black leather-look.
Shop More Deals- Dr. Scholl’s Nice Day Now Loafer/Moc Shoes from $40 (was $95) at Amazon
- Dr. Scholl’s Jetset Loafer, from $13 (was $80) at Amazon
- Dr. Scholl’s Hello Loafers/Moc Shoes, from $47 (was $100) at Amazon
Sizing runs in half sizes from 6 through 13, giving you plenty of options to find the right fit. Shoppers recommend sizing up a half size, and the loafers are also available in a wide width for those who need more room across the foot.
Amazon shoppers have dubbed these shoes as “sleek,” “stylish,” “easy to walk in,” and “super comfortable right out of the box,” with over 500 five-star ratings to match the praise. “They are very soft, so they aren’t rubbing against my ankles or feet, very flexible, and extremely comfortable to walk in due to the Dr. Scholl’s cushion sole,” a reviewer wrote.
With shoppers snatching up multiple colors, it’s clear that the Dr. Scholl’s Ruler Slip-On Loafer is a must-have. Shop them at Amazon while they’re 50% off!
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'The Pitt' Star Patrick Ball Says This Revelation About Langdon 'Was a Shocker'
While the acclaimed HBO Max series, The Pitt, has plenty of shocking moments, there’s one mild aspect of Patrick Ball‘s character, Dr. Frank Langdon, that took him by surprise.
In an August 2026 interview with Vanity Fair, Ball said he was a bit taken aback when Langdon’s first name was confirmed a few episodes into season 1 of The Pitt.
“That was a shocker. I really was moving through most of the first part of season one under the assumption that I was a one-namer, like Beyoncé,” quipped the actor. “Season one, you get Langdon. Season two, you get Frank.”
Patrick Ball Has Been Open About His and His Character’s SobrietyThroughout the second season of The Pitt, which premiered in January 2026, Langdon grapples with his first E.R. shift following his rehabilitation stay after Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch (Noah Wyle) found out he’d stolen benzodiazepines. In an April 2026 interview with Deadline Hollywood, Ball said he wasn’t aware that Langdon was struggling with substance abuse issues when he auditioned for the role.
“Well, when I first read the script, Langdon was described to me as sort of the upbeat, funtime doctor who everybody loved, which was sort of my sort of first way in. And then I think he was described as ‘the golden boy,'” said the 36-year-old actor.
He then said that during “the call-back process” he discovered “the addiction part of his character.”
“That was sort of when it really started clicking to me that this was something that was maybe meant for me,” said Ball to the publication, seemingly in reference to his own sobriety. In a February 2026 Esquire interview, Ball shared that he is “coming up on four years sober.”
While speaking to Deadline Hollywood, Ball said that “it became a really fun time over the course of season 1 and into season 2 about figuring out how to fulfill both of those archetypes and demands of the script” while playing Langdon.
“How to be the golden boy, but also how to humanize that and complicate that and realize that that person too can be struggling and can be grappling with some demons that may not be readily apparent,” continued Ball in the Deadline Hollywood interview.
New 'Girl Dad' Chris Evans Reveals the Most Unexpected Part of Fatherhood
On the big screen, fans know him best as Captain America. Behind the scenes, Chris Evans wears a number of hats, including dog owner and newly crowned girl dad.
The beloved A-lister, 45, is also a partner of Jinx, the pet wellness brand that recently helped bring to life a new episode of “Dodo Dream Date.” If you are a dog lover and not aware of this web series, take note…
On Tuesday, August 18, The Dodo — an online publisher focused on animals — launched a new installment of “Dodo Dream Date” featuring the Marvel actor and two “inseparable” shelter dogs.
Here is Dodo’s official synopsis of the clip: “We’re pairing celebrities and rescue animals up for the cutest blind dates in Dodo Dream Date! In this episode, Chris Evans surprises his dates with a game that helps them earn treats while getting to know each other 🫶.”
During the game, Evans is prompted with the question: “As a new girl dad, what has been the most unexpected part of fatherhood so far?” In a heartfelt moment, the award-winning actor responds by opening up about how much he misses his daughter whenever she’s not in his arms.
Evans recently took to social media to promote the adorable new episode. Check out the joint Instagram reel below.
View this post on InstagramFans have since flooded the post’s comments section to show their support for Evans, the partnership and more. “Ahhh bless Chris and doggies 😊,” wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, “I’m cryinggggggg this is precious. ❤️❤️❤️”
Evans Hasn’t Retired as the ‘Captain’ Just YetEvans has made headlines in other ways this summer, especially when the Avengers: Doomsday trailer dropped last month. Fans are finally getting the crossover they hoped for, as the upcoming film will find three distinct Marvel universes interacting for the first time on screen.
Per the trailer, characters from the main Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) will collide with those from The X-Men from the original X-Men movie universe (2000) as well as the futuristic world of The Fantastic Four.
'70s Rock Legend, Nicknamed 'The Quiet One,' Turns 75
His reserved personality was matched by a talent that helped shape some of rock’s most recognizable songs.
John Deacon, the longtime bassist and one of the four members of Queen’s classic lineup, celebrates his 75th birthday on Aug. 19. The musician was born in Leicester, England, in 1951 and became an essential part of the band that rose to worldwide fame during the 1970s.
Deacon’s quiet demeanor stood apart from the commanding stage presence of Freddie Mercury, Brian May and Roger Taylor, eventually earning him the nickname “The Quiet One.” His personality never limited his contributions, however, as both his bass playing and songwriting became important parts of Queen’s sound.
The musician began playing in bands as a teenager and studied electronics before joining Queen in 1971 at age 19. His musical ability and technical knowledge helped him secure the position, completing the lineup that would remain together for the next two decades.
Deacon went on to write several of the band’s most enduring songs, including “You’re My Best Friend,” “I Want to Break Free” and “Another One Bites the Dust.” The latter topped the U.S. charts for three weeks and earned Favorite Pop/Rock Single at the 1981 American Music Awards, while Deacon was later inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2003.
His accomplishments were also recognized alongside the rest of Queen when the group entered the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2001. Although Deacon did not attend the ceremony, his name appears with Mercury, May and Taylor on the band’s official plaque.
Deacon largely withdrew from music following Mercury’s death in 1991. His final live appearance with Queen came in 1997 when the band performed “The Show Must Go On” with Elton John in Paris. Later that year, he joined May and Taylor to record “No-One but You (Only the Good Die Young)” before retiring.
The bassist has remained private ever since, but he continues to have a say in major decisions involving Queen. “If we have any major decision, business-wise, it’s always run past John,” May explained. “He’s still very much part of Queen.”
At 75, Deacon’s work remains closely tied to the band’s legacy. His memorable bass lines and songwriting continue to reach new generations, ensuring that “The Quiet One” is still heard whenever Queen’s music plays.
Related: ’80s Rock Legend Announces Special Tour 40 Years After Beginning Solo Career in New York
1956 Rock Song, Written by Two 19-Year-Olds in 12 Minutes, Became Elvis Presley's Longest-Running No. 1 Hit
Unless you recently came to Earth from another planet, you’re probably well aware that “Hound Dog” was one of Elvis Presley‘s biggest hits, not to mention one of the songs that helped shape rock and roll. But you might not know that Presley wasn’t the first to record the song, or that it wasn’t even written for him in the first place.
While Presley’s version of “Hound Dog” went to the top of the charts in 1956, the song was actually written in 1952 by the legendary songwriting team of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who started collaborating musically in 1950 when they were just 17 years old.
“When we started working, we’d write five songs at a session,” Stoller recalled during a 1990 interview with Rolling Stone. “Then we’d go home, and we’d call each other up. ‘I’ve written six more songs!’ ‘I’ve written four more.’ Our critical faculties, obviously, were not as developed, and we just kept on writing and writing.”
“‘Hound Dog’ took like twelve minutes,” Leiber added. “That’s not a complicated piece of work. But the rhyme scheme was difficult. Also the metric structure of the music was not easy.”
Perhaps “Hound Dog” was written so quickly because the pair had a specific singer in mind: Legendary blues singer-songwriter Big Mama Thornton.
“Johnny Otis [bandleader, record producer] told us to come down to his garage in the back of his house, where he used to rehearse,” Lieber explained.
“He wanted us to listen to his people and see if we could write some tunes for them,” he continued. “We saw Big Mama and she knocked me cold. She looked like the biggest, baddest, saltiest chick you would ever see. And she was mean, a ‘lady bear,’ as they used to call ’em. She must have been 350 pounds, and she had all these scars all over her face. I had to write a song for her that basically said, ‘Go f—k yourself.’ But how to do it without actually saying it? And how to do it telling a story? I couldn’t just have a song full of expletives.”
Thankfully, Thornton took to the “hound dog” metaphor, though she wasn’t particularly open to hearing Stoller and Lieber’s thoughts on her performance.
“She was a wonderful blues singer, with a great moaning style,” Stoller said. “But it was as much her appearance as her blues style that influenced the writing of ‘Hound Dog’ and the idea that we wanted her to growl it. Which she rejected at first. Her thing was ‘Don’t you tell me how to sing no song!'”
“Hound Dog” was the biggest commercial success of Thornton’s career, spending seven weeks at #1 on the Billboard R&B chart in 1953. A few years later, in 1956, Presley had even better luck with the tune (though his version of the song was closer to Freddie Bell and the Bellboys’ reworked cover, which came out in 1955).
“Elvis was incredibly cooperative,” Leiber remembered. “He would try anything. He wasn’t a diva, no prima donna. When it came to work, he was a workhorse.”
“If he didn’t like something — his own performance, primarily — he would say, ‘Let’s do another one,'” Stoller agreed. “And this would go on and on, take 38, take 39, until he felt he had it. We thought we already had it! We’d got it twice!”
Presley’s “Hound Dog” (released with “Don’t Be Cruel” as a double-sided single) became the longest running #1 hit of his career, spending 11 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
Another “Hound Dog” fun fact: Presley’s performance of the song on The Milton Berle Show (complete with hip gyrations that made the audience scream) earned him the nickname “Elvis the Pelvis” and served as one of rock’s first major controversies, as Robert Fink wrote in Elvis Everywhere: Musicology and Popular Music Studies at the Twilight of the Canon.
Related: This Rock Legend Paid Less Than $4 for His First Ever Recording 72 Years Ago
Hayden Panettiere’s On-Screen Father Breaks His Silence on Her Death
In the days following Hayden Panettiere’s tragic and sudden death, social media has been flooded with tributes to the actress.
However, in one of the most emotional and touching tributes, her on-screen father from Heroes shared a heartbreaking message about her passing and his memories of her.
Related: Hayden Panettiere Fans Blame Estranged Mom Following Actress’ Sudden Death
Jack Coleman starred as Panettiere’s dad, Noah Bennet, on the NBC series, which ran from 2006 to 2010. In a post shared on Instagram, Coleman revealed that Panettiere called him “daddio” from the very first day they met on set 20 years ago.
View this post on Instagram“I’ve loved Hayden since day one of the pilot of Heroes, 20 years ago, when she introduced herself by shouting “daddy” and throwing her arms around me. From that day on, she called me daddio. She was Haydini, because she was a magician,” he wrote.
“She brought joy to the set and a photographic memory. Everyone was in awe of her ability to bring it every take. A tiny colossus who loved to laugh. We laughed a lot. That shining face, that megawatt smile, that wasn’t just for the camera. That was her. She glowed.”
He also went on to detail how she was hunted by the paparazzi as a teenager, calling them predatory. Coleman also expressed regret and anger regarding her tragic death.
“I love you, Hayden. I’ll miss you. I’m so sorry you suffered. I’ll remember how happy you were on set and on the European press tour; how you championed Tess when she was being bullied; your commitment to animal welfare and the courage to put yourself in harm’s way to protect them,” he continued. “I only wish you had been given that same protection.”
Coleman’s daughter, Tess, whom he mentioned in his tribute, also shared a sweet memory of Panettiere, commenting, “I’ll always remember the way she made me feel seen, heard, and protected, three things that meant everything at that age. She championed other people in a way she so often wasn’t championed herself. That’s one of the rarest qualities a person can have, and it’s something I’ll never forget.”
Kohl’s Adorable $24 Ghost Braided Basket Makes Halloween Decor Surprisingly Practical
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Halloween decor is everywhere right now, which is great news if spooky season is your favorite time of year. And if you’re looking for something a little more subtle to throw into the mix, the Celebrate Together Halloween Medium Ghost Braided Bin at Kohl’s is a cute way to add a festive touch while sneaking in some extra storage. It’s currently on sale for just $24, down from $30, and the black braided basket is covered in small white ghosts for just the right amount of spooky charm.
The basket measures 13.9 inches high and 14.5 inches wide and long, giving you plenty of room for throw blankets, dog toys, or other smaller items. It holds a little over 4 pounds and is made from polyester and cotton. The braided handles on the sides also make it easier to move around from room to room, and it can be wiped clean when needed.
Celebrate Together Halloween Medium Ghost Braided Bin, $24 (was $30) at Kohl’s Shop at Kohl'sThe best part is this gem doesn’t create another decorating problem. Instead of finding shelf space for one more ceramic pumpkin (not that there’s ever enough of those), you’re adding something that can hide the clutter already sitting around. You can keep it next to the couch for smaller blankets, use it in a kid’s room for stuffed animals, or even fill it with candy by the front door on Halloween night.
Several shoppers rated the basket five out of five stars. And at $24, it’s also in the same price range as plenty of everyday braided storage baskets, only this one doubles as Halloween decor. If you already need extra storage, the ghost print makes it a little more fun for the season without costing much more.
Related: Walmart’s ‘Adorable’ $18 Pumpkin Glasses Are the Ultimate Summerween Kitchen Find
There’s also a good chance this one will stick around after October 31. If a few friendly ghosts hanging around into November don’t bother you, the basket can keep holding blankets, toys, or extra linens long after Halloween is over. And if you do pack it away with the rest of the seasonal decor, at least it earns its storage space while it is out.
Shop More Deals- Celebrate Together Halloween LED Confetti Glass Ghost, $16 (was $20) at Kohl’s
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If you want Halloween decor that’s more cute than creepy and can help clean up the room while it is at it, this is an easy one to add to your cart. Be sure to grab the Celebrate Together Halloween Medium Ghost Braided Bin while the sale is still live and let the ghosts handle some of the clutter this season.
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NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Thursday, August 20, 2026
To solve today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle, you’ll be exploring words inspired by science, classic cartoons, alternative ways to say you’re eating healthy and multiple ways to express that you’re upset.
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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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Thursday, August 20, 2026Here are additional clues for each of the words in today’s Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Hints1 Across: Scientist’s workplace — HINT: Starts with the letter “L”
4 Across: Best friend of Charlie Brown — HINT: Ends with the letter “S”
6 Across: Looking for a fight, informally — HINT: Starts with the letter “A”
7 Across: Turtle’s hiding place — HINT: Starts with the letter “S”
8 Across: Give an effort — HINT: Ends with the letter “Y”
Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours
NYT Mini Down Hints1 Down: Plant food? — HINT: Starts with the letter “L”
2 Down: “Don’t Look Back in ___” (Oasis hit) — HINT: Ends with the letter “R”
3 Down: Large and muscular — HINT: Starts with the letter “B”
4 Down: ___ Vegas — HINT: Ends with the letter “S”
5 Down: Note after do, re, mi, fa … — HINT: Ends with the letter “L”
Don’t go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today’s Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Answers1 Across: Scientist’s workplace — LAB
4 Across: Best friend of Charlie Brown — LINUS
6 Across: Looking for a fight, informally — AGGRO
7 Across: Turtle’s hiding place — SHELL
8 Across: Give an effort — TRY
1 Down: Plant food? — LIGHT
2 Down: “Don’t Look Back in ___” (Oasis hit) — ANGER
3 Down: Large and muscular — BURLY
4 Down: ___ Vegas — LAS
5 Down: Note after do, re, mi, fa … — SOL
Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Wednesday, August 19, 2026
1969 Supergroup Song, First Song Written by Eric Clapton, Is Still a Generational Hit 57 Years Later
More than five decades after its release, Blind Faith’s 1969 song “Presence of the Lord” not only marked a major milestone in Eric Clapton’s songwriting career but also remained one of the standout songs from the band’s only studio album.
In the ’60s, when seasoned musicians were coming together to form all-star bands known as supergroups, the quartet, composed of legendary English musicians Steve Winwood on lead vocals, Ginger Baker on drums, Ric Grech on bass and Clapton on guitar and vocals, formed one of rock’s earliest and most influential supergroups.
Although they only had a short-lived career, Blind Faith released several impressive rock songs that became staples of the era.
As part of their self-titled debut album, they came up with six songs featuring the gospel-influenced track “Presence of the Lord.”
Blind Faith Steve Winwood, Ric Grech, Ginger Baker, Eric Clapton pose for a portrait in 1969.Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Written by Clapton, the soulful and meaningful track, which he calls a “song of gratitude,” has a deep personal meaning to him.
Aside from the song’s meaning as his declaration of faith and his way of “say ‘thank you’ to God, or whatever you choose to call Him, for whatever happens,” it was also his first song he wrote entirely by himself, as cited by Song Facts.
The song was inspired by Clapton’s life transition, as he had just left Cream at the height of the band’s popularity.
With his new band, Blind Faith, he was hopeful and comfortable with where his career was heading, but his personal life was a different story.
In June 1969, Blind Faith made their live debut in front of more than 100,000 fans at a massive free concert in London’s Hyde Park.
Later that summer, they released their one and only album, which reached No. 1 on both the U.K. and U.S. charts. However, “Presence of the Lord” had modest success, landing at No. 71 on the Billboard Hot 100.
With a career lasting less than a year, Blind Faith’s song continues to resonate with generations of rock listeners 57 years later.
Contributors on Reddit expressed how “amazing” “Presence of the Lord” was and called it a standout track from the album.
“Clapton’s Presence of the Lord is amazing as well and elevated by Winwood’s emotional vocals,” one wrote.
The same goes for another who said: “Presence of the Lord was my favourite.”
“I think ‘Presence of the Lord’ is a great song. Rest of the Album doesn’t do it for me,” a fan commented.
Related: ’60s Rock Band, Disbanded After One Year, Ranked Among ‘Best Supergroups’ of All Time
1966 Rock Hit, Written by a 16-Year-Old, Inspired Boston's 'More Than a Feeling'
Like so many popular songs of the ’60s (and pretty much every other decade), “Walk Away Renée” by the Left Banke was inspired by young, unrequited love. The backstory, however, might be a little messier than some, as it involves one band member’s hopeless crush on another’s girlfriend.
When the Left Banke formed in New York City in 1965, the members were all still teenagers, influenced by the Beatles and other British Invasion bands of the time. Sometimes, when they first started playing together, bassist Tom Finn would bring his girlfriend, Renée Fladen, to rehearsals. That was all it took for keyboard player/songwriter Michael Brown to fall head over heels for the young woman.
“A bunch of teens got an apartment together around Tin Pan Alley, in the Broadway area, and Renée lived there part time when she wasn’t living with her mother,” Finn explained in an interview with Dawn Eden.
“Most of the kids were like half runaways in those days, and there was a ‘crash pad’ there, as we used to call it,” Finn continued. “I guess I brought her to the studio one day were Michael met her and fell in love with her.”
Fladen was just a teenager, too, but Finn remembered her as being particularly mature for her age.
“For a kid of 16 or 17 she was just sort of free and liberal and open minded, sexy, everything, you know? She was just very different for that time, so she just bowled Mike over. I was brokenhearted when she lost interest in me after a while,” he admitted.
At just 16 years old, Brown wrote “Walk Away Renée” about Fladen, in addition to two other songs.
“Around that time, maybe within another month he wrote ‘Pretty Ballerina’ about her, even though she wasn’t a ballerina, and ‘She May Call You Up’ was written on the same day, or maybe the same week, as ‘Pretty Ballerina,’ and he never mentioned at the time that they were about her,” Finn said.
When it came time for Brown to record his harpsichord part for “Walk Away Renée,” Fladen showed up at the studio…much to his horror.
“My hands were shaking when I tried to play, because she was right there in the control room,” Brown said later, per Far Out. “There was no way I could do it with her around, so I came back and did it later.”
Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images
Released in July 1966 as the Left Banke’s debut single, “Walk Away Renée” went all the way to #14 on the Billboard Hot 100; later that year, “Pretty Ballerina” peaked at #15. (The Four Tops also had a hit with their cover of the song.)
A decade later, in 1976, another band had a career-defining hit with a song inspired by “Walk Away Renée.” As late Boston frontman Tom Scholz once explained, the wistful melancholy of the tune influenced “More Than a Feeling.”
“There was another song out that, whenever I heard it, caused me to pine miserably for this particular girl. That song was called ‘Walk Away Renée’ by The Left Banke,” Scholz said.
Of course, as any classic rock fan knows, in “More Than a Feeling,” it’s Marianne who walks away…following in Renée’s footsteps, as it turns out.
Country Icon Has the Best Advice for Ella Langley Amid No. 1 Hit Lasting 18 Weeks
Ella Langley is having a huge year, but one piece of advice from country icon Miranda Lambert has helped her stay focused during her fast rise.
Langley’s hit song “Choosin’ Texas” has now spent 18 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The milestone gives the country singer the longest No. 1 run for a non-holiday song by a female artist. As her success continues to grow, Langley says Lambert has reminded her to stay true to herself and put music first.
“Miranda has given me more advice than I can possibly ask for,” Langley told Variety. “She’s always reminded me to stay true to myself, keep the music at the center of everything, and trust that the rest will take care of itself.”
The advice comes during a major moment in Langley’s career. “Choosin’ Texas” has become one of the biggest songs of 2026, while Langley has also collected major awards, released her sophomore album Dandelion, and continued performing across the country.
Ella Langley performs onstage at Nissan Stadium during CMA Fest 2026 day one on June 04, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images
Her latest chart milestone puts her close to another piece of Billboard history. With 18 weeks at No. 1, “Choosin’ Texas” is one week away from tying the No. 2 spot for the longest run at the top among non-holiday songs. Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” and Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road,” featuring Billy Ray Cyrus, are among the songs at that mark.
Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” remains ahead with 22 total weeks at No. 1 when holiday songs are included.
The 18-week run is only one part of Langley’s successful 2026.
Earlier this year, she swept all seven of her nominations at the ACM Awards. The achievement set a new record for the most wins by an artist in a single year. Her victories included female artist of the year, along with song and single of the year for “Choosin’ Texas.”
Langley later added two American Music Awards to her growing list of honors. She won best female country artist and best country song. “Choosin’ Texas” also earned a nomination for best country at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards.
Her second album, Dandelion, arrived in April. Since then, Langley has continued building her audience through live shows and new music.
She also teamed up with Koe Wetzel for the viral song “Jaded,” adding another high-profile release during her busy year.
Despite the major wins and chart records, Langley has kept a packed schedule. She has been living on a tour bus and performing across the country. Her arena-headlining Dandelion Tour is scheduled to run through October, with stops including Red Rocks and two nights at Los Angeles’ Greek Theatre.
The tour also features a mix of artists Langley says she believes in and enjoys as a fan. Among the all-female opening acts are Kaitlin Butts, Gabriella Rose and Laci Kaye Booth. Avery Anna and Madeline Edwards were also added for the Hamilton show.
Langley explained that she and her management team look at what makes sense for the fans and the artists involved when planning each show.
Lambert’s guidance may be especially meaningful as Langley deals with the growing attention that comes with having one of the year’s biggest songs.
Langley and Lambert already share a connection that began when Langley approached the country star as a fan on a carpet. Now, Lambert has become someone Langley can turn to for advice during her rise.
Langley also appears to be thinking about what comes next. When asked about artists she would like to collaborate with, she named Stevie Nicks, Chris Stapleton and Harry Styles.
She is also already looking toward her third album. When asked if she wanted to explore another genre in the future, Langley kept her answer short: “You’ll just have to see as we start writing for album 3.”
Away from the charts and awards, Langley has also spoken openly to fans during her live performances.
At a recent show in Fort Worth, Texas, she introduced “Loving Life Again” with an uplifting message. “I want you to know that you are loved. You are so loved,” Langley told the crowd.
View this post on InstagramShe continued, “Not just by the person that you’re here with, the people that you’re here with, but most importantly, you’re loved by Jesus Christ. That’s all you can ask for in this world.”
Langley later admitted to the audience, “I know I look like I have it all figured out up here, but I do not. I’m living every day flying by the seat of my pants.”
Related: Country Star Ella Langley Sends Message to Texas After Show
Kai Trump Is Just Like Any College Freshman—Except for Her New Merch Line
Kai Trump is the typical college freshman. She goes shopping for her new apartment at Target, hangs out with her mom, and… drops a new line of merch? That’s right, President Donald Trump’s granddaughter just launched a limited-edition clothing collection—and it’s for a very good cause.
Kai Trump’s new line. Photo: Kai Trump ShopKai Trump Shop
The 19-year-old recently left home for her first year playing golf (and studying, of course) at the University of Miami in Florida. But before she started college, Kai helped to create a casual, sporty, and beachy line of tees, tanks, crewneck sweatshirts, hats, and totes.
Kai shared her thoughts on this new endeavor on her shop’s website, writing, “Every piece was created to feel effortless, elevated, and easy to make you own—styles for today and a foundation for everything still to come. This launch is the beginning of the future of Kai, and I can’t wait to see where we take it.”
Kai Trump’s new line. Photo: Kai Trump ShopLast May, her mom, Vanessa Trump, revealed a breast cancer diagnosis. The following June, Vanessa shared (on Instagram), “Over the past four weeks, I’ve been recovering from surgery, and I’m grateful to be healing and moving forward.” In honor of her mother, a portion of the proceeds from Kai’s new August drop will go to breast cancer awareness organizations.
Kai Trump’s new line. Photo: Kai Trump ShopKai Trump Shop
Vanessa recently joined Kai in a back-to-school shopping vlog for her popular YouTube channel. Like just about every other parent of a new college freshman right now, Vanessa said (as the pair made their way through Target), “I am totally exhausted from going to her apartment, coming back and forth, and moving everything.”
Kai admitted, “Well, I kind of messed up the furniture delivery, so she went and drove to Miami yesterday,” as her mom added, “To wait for three deliveries…That’s okay. It was during rush hour too. So, it was fun times. What we do for our children, right?”
So, what is Vanessa helping Kai pick up at the big red bullseye retailer? According to the mom of five, “We need kitchen stuff, bathroom stuff, toiletries, bedding. She already has clothes. I’m not buying clothes. She can open up a clothing store with all the clothes she has.”
But that’s not all. Fame won’t stop Kai from doing something every college should (but probably doesn’t) do. If you’re wondering what that is, Vanessa explains, “And cleaning stuff. Because she’ll be cleaning her own apartment. She’s going to learn how to do that, or else it will just stay a mess.”
The totally relatable moments keep coming as Vanessa gets real about shopping with children, “It’s draining and exhausting. That’s why I always go to the supermarket by myself, not with little kids around. Because they grab everything and you have to put stuff back.”
She continues, “So, I like to do the shopping by myself. And you don’t spend as much when you go by yourself. I think a lot of parents can relate to me. Going shopping with children, it’s almost triple the amount. And then you look like the parent because you’re taking everything out of the shopping cart.”
Even though Kai’s now at college and hopefully cleaning her own apartment, her new merch is available online right now.
Steve Perry Reunion? Journey Legend Drops Surprise Hint Ahead of Final Concert
Could Steve Perry make one final appearance with Journey?
Longtime Journey keyboardist Jonathan Cain just dropped a tantalizing hint about a possible reunion at the band’s final scheduled concert, raising an intriguing possibility just months after Perry addressed rumors about returning to the group.
Journey will launch the final leg of its farewell tour in September before bringing the trek home to San Francisco, where the band was formed more than five decades ago, for its final scheduled concert at Chase Center on Nov. 28.
And according to Cain, fans might want to expect the unexpected.
“It’ll be fitting to end there for sure,” Cain told The Independent. “Who knows who’s going to show up? I don’t know. There might be a reunion of sorts, I hope.”
Cain didn’t name Perry or offer any clues about who might participate in that potential reunion. Journey has had numerous members throughout its history, so his comments could refer to any number of former bandmates.
But Perry is inevitably a name that comes to mind, particularly after months of speculation about whether Journey’s legendary former frontman could play some role in the band’s farewell.
Could Steve Perry Reunite With Journey?Perry joined Journey in 1977, helping usher in the band’s most commercially successful era and becoming the unmistakable voice behind hits including “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” and “Who’s Crying Now.”
He left Journey in 1987 and later reunited with the group in the 1990s, recording the 1996 album Trial by Fire, before departing again.
Earlier this year, however, Perry directly addressed rumors that he might rejoin Journey for its farewell tour.
“While I’m always grateful for the love people still have for Journey, the rumors about me rejoining the band are simply not true, and I want to gently put them to rest,” Perry wrote in a message to fans.
Perry said he understood why people would hope to see it happen, adding that the music he made with Journey “means a great deal to me too.” But he explained that he was continuing to pursue new creative work and make music reflecting where he is today.
His statement seemingly closed the door on Perry rejoining Journey for the tour. It did not, however, specifically address whether he would consider a one-night appearance with his former bandmates.
In fact, fans immediately floated that possibility in response to Perry’s statement.
“Totally understandable. But here’s a thought…..maybe a short cameo before it’s too late?” one person wrote. “You will always be the defining voice of Journey.”
“If this is the final tour for Journey, it would be a tribute to the fans for Steve to do a few dates,” another suggested. “The fans deserve one more show!”
For now, a Perry appearance remains entirely speculative. Cain never mentioned him by name, and a “reunion of sorts” could just as easily involve another former member of Journey.
Still, if there were ever going to be a night for a surprise appearance, Journey’s final scheduled concert in the city where it all began would certainly be one.
Journey’s Final Concert Will Be a HomecomingJourney co-founder and guitarist Neal Schon is already anticipating an emotional night when the band returns to San Francisco.
“I’m sure it’s going to be somewhat emotional because that’s where it all started,” Schon told The Independent. “I know the audience is going to be off the hook.”
The final leg will follow a massive year on the road for Journey, with the band expected to have played more than 100 concerts by the time it reaches San Francisco.
The current lineup features Schon, Cain, singer Arnel Pineda, keyboardist Jason Derlatka, drummer Deen Castronovo and bassist Todd Jensen.
And while Journey is calling this its farewell tour, what happens after that final show isn’t nearly as certain.
“The future kind of remains up in the air really,” Cain said.
Schon also made it clear that he’s not ready to stop making music.
“I’m not nearly done with what I want to do,” he said. “I think there’s many great opportunities in the future. Whether or not it’s with everybody that’s here right now, I’m not certain.”
First, however, comes Nov. 28 in San Francisco—and Cain has now given Journey fans one more reason to wonder exactly who might show up.
Related: Neal Schon Calls Out Steve Perry in Journey Tribute—and Fans Notice the Wording
1976 Hit, Featured in James Gunn’s Marvel Debut, Became One of Classic Rock’s Greatest Movie Moments
In August 2014, James Gunn introduced audiences to his very first full-length Marvel film, Guardians of the Galaxy. But beyond establishing himself as a space-opera force, he solidified himself as a certified mixtape master.
Fusing retro hits into the DNA of his modern superhero blockbuster, Gunn, with his music supervisors, curated the soundtrack for the film. But rather than treat the songs as passive sidekicks in the background, he deliberately embedded each track into the screenplay as a core storytelling device.
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Gunn titled his debut soundtrack Awesome Mix Vol. 1, and its tracklist more than lives up to its moniker. Featuring Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit in the Sky,” Blue Swede’s “Hooked on a Feeling,” Redbone’s “Come and Get Your Love,” and more, the record is brimming with killer needle drops. It even hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making history as the first soundtrack composed entirely of previously released songs to top the chart.
According to Radio X, however, there’s one music moment that is particularly “memorable” and stands above the rest.
The Runaways’ “Cherry Bomb,” a teenage riot from an all-female band, takes center stage closer to the end of the film, when the Guardians and the Ravagers finalize their team-up. Following Peter Quill’s “buncha jacka–es” speech, the rebel yell kicks into high gear while the eclectic group of screen heroes performs the inevitable action-film slow-mo walk montage.
“When you see the characters strutting down the hallway to ‘Cherry Bomb,’ they were actually strutting down the hallway to ‘Cherry Bomb,’” Gunn told Vulture, sharing that he played the music aloud on set. “I find it helps the actors and the camera operators to find the perfect groove for the shot.”
Released in June 1976, “Cherry Bomb” was the lead single from The Runaways’ self-titled debut studio album. Though the song, belted out by frontwoman Cherie Currie, failed to crack the Billboard Hot 100, it reached No. 106 on the Bubbling Under chart and eventually became an iconic punk-rock anthem.
Written by founding band member Joan Jett and producer Kim Fowley, the song actually has a fun backstory. During her audition for The Runaways, Currie was prepared to sing Suzi Quatro’s “Fever,” but the band didn’t know how to play it.
“So Kim and Joan looked at me and wrote ‘Cherry Bomb’ right there for me to audition to,” Currie told The Classic Rock Music Reporter. The title was a play on Currie’s name and the idea of a teenage firecracker, so “they thought, Cherry … Cherie, and they just thought I was a cherry bomb. They just wrote this song, and it was great.”
Great indeed. Nearly four decades after its release, The Runaways’ punk-rock signature found an entirely new generation of fans, and one of its most unforgettable showcases, in Gunn’s superhero blockbuster.
Walmart’s $18 4-Pack of Motion-Activated Solar Lights Are a Bright Idea for Your Deck, Driveway, and Porch
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As summer starts giving way to fall, there’s one change we can count on besides cooler temperatures: The sun starts calling it a day earlier. The same everyday errands that happened in broad daylight in July, like taking out the garbage, walking the dog, grabbing something from the car, or sitting on the deck after dinner, are happening in the dark. And while flipping on an outdoor light works when you’re standing right next to the switch, it’s less convenient when you’re halfway down the driveway.
That’s where automatic lighting comes in handy. If you’re looking for some, the Szrsth Solar Outdoor Lights are currently just $18 at Walmart, down 51% from their typical $39 price tag thanks to a Walmart flash deal. With four in the set, the math works out to you paying less than $5 per light. Spread them around walkways, entrances, the garage, or other darker spots around the house for a little more visibility as the evenings get longer.
Szrsth Solar Outdoor Lights, $18 (were $39) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe four-pack is designed to work without being plugged into an outlet, powered by built-in solar panels. During the day, each light collects energy from the sun and stores it in a 1,200 milliamp-hour lithium-ion battery, so the lights have power to use after dark. The manufacturer says they can provide more than 12 hours of lighting after a full charge, which means you can let all four soak up some sunshine and then have them ready for the evening. In other words, there’s no wiring to run, no batteries to swap out, and no need to remember to charge each light yourself.
The motion sensor is where the convenience really kicks in. Rather than staying lit all night, each light detects movement within about a 120-degree range and up to 3 meters, or roughly 10 feet, and switches on when someone approaches. This feature can be especially handy with a four-pack because you can spread the lights around different parts of your outdoor space, such as near the back door, along a walkway, by the garage, or beside the driveway.
Each one contains 12 light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, which produce a bright, cool-white light. The lights stay on for about 10 seconds after detecting movement, then switch off again, helping conserve the energy stored during the day. There’s also an automatic setting, so once they’re installed, you can mostly forget about them and let them handle the lighting whenever they sense activity.
Shop More Deals- Daybetter Motion-Sensor Solar Lights, $18 (were $26) at Walmart
- Tzumi Motion-Sensor Solar Flood Lights, $30 (were $50) at Walmart
- Hovmap Solar Powered Motion Sensor Wall Lights, from $14 (were $24) at Walmart
These lights have an IP64 weather-resistance rating, which means they’re protected against dust and water from all angles, and they’re designed to withstand heat and everyday outdoor conditions. Each compact light measures about 4.9 inches long by 3.8 inches wide by 1.9 inches high, so they can tuck neatly along walls, fences, steps, porches, and other spots where you want light without a bulky fixture.
Installation is also straightforward with the included screws, making it easy to position all four lights around your property. Use them to brighten the path to the trash cans, illuminate the steps when you’re coming home late, or add some extra visibility around entrances and other darker areas.
Walmart shoppers had plenty of praise for these “extremely bright” and “quick-to-activate” fixtures, saying that the “light covers a large area” and “would stop anyone in their tracks that didn’t know the lights were there.” One reviewer wrote, “The motion sensors are spot-on, lighting up instantly when someone walks. What I love most is that they’re 100% wireless and solar-powered, so no running cords or paying extra on my power bill.”
Related: Walmart’s ‘Bright’ $35 Solar Light 6-Pack ‘Looks So Elegant’ in Yards and Gardens
If you want to experience the “peace of mind” that shoppers said the Szrsth Solar Outdoor Lights bring, shop them now at Walmart while they’re still over 50% off!
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'80s Rock Legend Announces Special Tour 40 Years After Beginning Solo Career in New York
Michael Monroe is returning to the country where his solo career began four decades ago.
The former Hanoi Rocks frontman has announced a short U.S. tour for the spring of 2027. The six-date run begins April 29 in Hamden, Connecticut and includes stops in New Hampshire, New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles before concluding aboard the Monsters of Rock Cruise.
Tickets are scheduled to go on sale Friday, Aug. 21. The tour will bring Monroe back to American stages after he canceled his planned 2025 appearances with Buckcherry to recover from a ruptured meniscus.
“We definitely wanna come to the States to play,” Monroe said in a February 2026 interview. “When we played there, it was fantastic. It was a great reaction.”
The announcement comes 40 years after Monroe started his first solo band in New York. He had moved to the city at the end of 1985 following the breakup of Hanoi Rocks and his involvement with Artists United Against Apartheid’s “Sun City.”
View this post on InstagramMonroe initially struggled after arriving in New York, but he eventually found an apartment on East Third Street and began writing and recording his solo debut. Released in 1987, Nights Are So Long helped him secure a worldwide record deal and was followed by Not Fakin’ It in 1989. Monroe recently recalled that New York felt like the right place to make a new start.
Before going solo, Monroe had become known as the singer and multi-instrumentalist for Hanoi Rocks. Formed in Finland in 1979, the band combined punk, glam and hard rock while building an international following during the early ’80s. Its original run ended in 1985 following the death of drummer Nicholas “Razzle” Dingley.
Monroe has continued releasing music and touring throughout the decades since. His current band includes fellow former Hanoi Rocks member Sami Yaffa alongside guitarists Steve Conte and Rich Jones and drummer Karl Rockfist. His latest album, Outerstellar, was released in February 2026.
The upcoming tour will give Monroe another chance to perform for American fans while returning him to New York, the city where his solo career first took shape.
Michael Monroe’s 2027 U.S. Tour Dates- April 29: Hamden, Connecticut – Space Ballroom
- April 30: Derry, New Hampshire – Tupelo Music Hall
- May 1: New York, New York – Gramercy Theatre
- May 4: Las Vegas, Nevada – Fremont Country Club
- May 5: Los Angeles, California – Whisky A Go Go
- May 6-11: Monsters of Rock Cruise
Related: 1973 Iconic Ballad, Never a No. 1 on Billboard, Is Still a Beloved Hit 53 Years Later
1977 Hit Song, Written in Secret Studio in California, Ranked Among 'Best Rock Songs' of All Time
Fleetwood Mac’s 1977 hit “Dreams,” written by Stevie Nicks in a separate studio room in Sausalito, California, has been ranked among the best rock songs of all time.
In its list of the 25 Best Rock Songs of All Time, Collider placed “Dreams” at No. 15.
Released from Fleetwood Mac’s landmark 1977 album Rumours, “Dreams” became the band’s only No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Nearly five decades later, the song continues to reach new listeners and remains one of the group’s best-known recordings.
Collider described “Dreams” as a song that appears simple at first but carries a strong emotional weight. The outlet pointed to Stevie Nicks’ lead vocal as the center of the recording, with the song telling the story of a lover who wants freedom.
NEW HAVEN, USA – 1st OCTOBER: Singer Stevie Nicks of British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac in a recording studio in New Haven, Connecticut, USA, October 1975. (Photo by Fin Costello/Redferns/Getty Images)The story behind the song is also unusual. Nicks wrote “Dreams” in early 1976 while Fleetwood Mac was working on Rumours. At the time, the band members were dealing with major changes in their personal relationships, including the breakup of Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham.
Nicks found time away from the main recording room and went into another studio at the Record Plant in Sausalito, California. The room was said to belong to Sly Stone. It was there that one of Fleetwood Mac’s biggest songs began.
The finished song would become very different from that early idea. But Nicks first had to convince the rest of Fleetwood Mac to give it a chance.
Some members initially thought the song was too simple. The basic structure did not immediately impress everyone.
Christine McVie once described the early version as having “just three chords and one note in the left hand” and called it “boring” when Nicks first played it on piano.
However, the song began to take shape after Lindsey Buckingham worked on its arrangement. McVie later changed her view after Buckingham “fashioned three sections out of identical chords, making each section sound completely different.”
The band recorded a demo, keeping Nicks’ vocals and the basic drum track from the early sessions. Other parts, including guitar and bass, were added later in Los Angeles.
The simple structure of “Dreams” became one of its greatest strengths. Its slow, steady rhythm helped give the song a sound that was easy to recognize.
Mick Fleetwood played an important role in shaping that feel. The drummer called “Dreams” a “given” when naming his greatest Fleetwood Mac recordings.
“The intro, I think, is one of those stupidly simple things that came from the drummer who played with Al Green and The Staple Singers,” Fleetwood told Music Radar in 2012. “So, it’s from my love of what I call ‘greasy music.’ It has a real feel, and it’s lazy. Behind the beat. Stupidly simple, but well thought-out.”
He also explained the message he gave the band before performing the song.
“Keep it greasy, guys.”
Fleetwood continued: “So, this is me keeping it greasy and letting go to form a groove that is infectious.”
That groove helped turn a song built around a small number of chords into one of rock music’s most lasting hits.
“Dreams” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in June 1977 and became Fleetwood Mac’s only chart-topping single in the United States. The song later found new life several times, including a major resurgence in 2020 after a TikTok video featuring the track went viral.
The renewed attention sent “Dreams” back onto music charts and helped introduce it to a new generation. The song also appeared at No. 9 on Rolling Stone’s 2021 list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Fleetwood Mac has sold more than 120 million records worldwide, while Rumours remains one of the best-selling albums of all time. The album also won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1978.
For “Dreams,” the path from a separate studio room in California to rock history started with a simple idea and a song written in about 10 minutes.
