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If you were asked to name the saddest movie of all time, there is one that stands out for the Gex-X masses. It has to be The NeverEnding Story, and it turns 42 today, July 20, 2026.

It’s one of those movies that destroys everyone the first time watching, especially when you have no idea about the Swamps of Sadness and what happens in it. Since its release, it’s become a cult classic, but it didn’t need that status to prove its success.

At a cost of $25 million (which is around $75 million in today’s money), it became Germany’s most expensive movie ever at the time of production. Part of that came down to the fact that Falkor was a real-life animatronic, sitting at 43-feet in length and made from airplane steel! It took 18 different operators to work on the controls for his facial expressions, body movements, and tail action.

It did only make $20 million at the U.S. box office, but worldwide, it grossed $100 million, which was virtually unheard of at the time for a non-Hollywood production.

Yet, while the world loved it, the original author of the novel that The NeverEnding Story was based on, Michael Ende, absolutely detested it. In fact, he sued over the major changes to the story and demanded that his name be removed from the credits, but this was a case where the production company won.

There are many stories of the horse used in the filming, Hippo, being killed during the filming of the Swamps of Sadness. That isn’t true; a hydraulic platform in the muddy water was used to help lower Hippo into the swamp and then raise him out. In the end, actor Noah Hathaway was able to take Hippo home, as a thank-you gift for all the filming. At least, he didn’t go away with the heartbreak and trauma Atreyu would have been left with. Sure, the horse comes back at the very end of The NeverEnding Story, but that scene still sends chills down our spines.

You may have even come across the movie again in recent years, and it’s all thanks to the soundtrack seeing a resurgence after it was included in Stranger Things Season 3.

This is one of those movies that everyone needs to watch at least once. Why not make the 42nd anniversary a reason to watch it with the family — and traumatize them in the way you were!

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Summer is all about enjoying outdoor adventures with your family and friends. If your calendar is already filling up with camping trips, backyard hangouts, and visits from out-of-town guests, it might be worth investing in a foldable cot. It provides a cozy place to sit, lounge, or even sleep when you're having people over, and it unfolds and stores away effortlessly without taking up too much space. 

Walmart's bestselling Gvdv Folding Cot is an excellent option to have on hand while hosting, going camping, or simply stargazing in your backyard, and it's on sale for up to 40% off for a limited time. Right now, the blue color and its black-gray counterpart are marked down to just $56 from $100.  

Gvdv Folding Camping Cot, From $56 (was $100) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Featuring a sturdy iron frame with 10 tube legs, the versatile cot is designed to support up to 500 pounds and can serve multiple needs with its conveniently collapsible design. You can use it as a lounging spot, an outdoor chair, or simply as an extra bed in a guest room or living area. Weighing just 18 pounds, it moves easily from place to place, comes with a carrying bag for effortless packing, and folds flat in just seconds, allowing for hassle-free storage.  

At 75 inches deep, 28 inches wide, and 18 inches high, the cot is compact enough to transport  while still offering plenty of room to comfortably stretch out on when unfolded. The three-inch two-sided mattress cushion is soft, breathable, and made with double-layer, waterproof Oxford fabric that's easy to clean. The top tilts up to 18 degrees, so you can prop your head up while reading or lounging, and there's a built-in side pocket to keep books and phones within easy reach. 

Related: Walmart's 'Comfy' $20 Strappy Slip-in Sandals 'Pack Easily and Go With Everything'

The Gvdv folding cot has earned over 1,100 five-star ratings from Walmart shoppers, who called it "sturdy" and "comfortable." One reviewer highlighted its versatility, noting that it's "great for camping, travel, or kicking back." Another pointed out how convenient it is for both indoor and outdoor use, calling it "great for camping or guest rooms."

If you're looking for a convenient way to carve out some extra sleep space in your home without investing in bulky furniture, this foldable cot bed is a smart and practical solution that can work for a range of occasions. Grab one for as low as $56 before this limited-time deal ends at Walmart. 

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Trying to find a new go-to sandal for summer can be a tough feat, especially if you're prioritizing comfort. Luckily though, we've searched high and low for styles that don't force you to compromise fashion, comfortability, or your bank account. Macy's has an incredible shoe section with major deals that you won't find anywhere else, like this 58% off sale on the highly-rated Clarks Fenner Nerice Flip Flops.

The shoes originally cost $60, but has been reduced to $25 in a limited-time deal, which is one of the lowest prices we've seen. You can shop the shoe in brown (which looks similar to a burnt honey color) and off-white. The sizes range from 5 to 12, and some sizes in the off-white version are out of stock. Otherwise, you can snag any size and color variation, with shoppers saying that the shoes run true to size and provide a "perfect fit."

Clarks Fenner Nerice Flip Flops, $25 (was $60) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

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The sandals feature a 0.75-inch heel that gives you some height while also offering enough stability so that you can move freely. The slip-on design has a rounded toe with a braided detail on the strap for a unique texture. The shoe consists of a synthetic upper and sole, with cushion soft technology on the insole that's intended to provide long-lasting comfort.  

Clarks Fenner Nerice Flip Flops, $25 (was $60) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

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One shopper said that they've owned these sandals for two years, and wrote that they are still the "most comfortable sandals." The reviewer continued, "I live at the shore and even with the salt air and summer heat, these sandals still look like the day I bought them." Another agreed that the "sturdy" flip flops are very "supportive" and perfect for "everyday" wear.

Other customers described the sandals as "lightweight," "great for walking," "very pretty," and "amazing." One customer did note that you may have to break them in a bit, so we recommend walking around the house in them for a few hours to allow them to conform to your foot. 

Related: Macy’s ‘Stunning’ $10 Mother of Pearl Necklace Is the Definition of Coastal-Chic Charm

Considering another shopper said that their pair lasted them seven years, we feel pretty confident saying that these trendy sandals are a great investment. Add them to your online cart for 58% off at Macy's! 

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Gardening is fun until tools, soil, and planters start taking over your patio. Fortunately, the Serwall Outdoor Potting Bench with Storage is the perfect solution, and it’s on sale at Walmart for just $100, down from $250, with the best deal on the single black or brown versions. There's also blue and gray options for $100, and if you want a two-pack, those are on sale too at varying prices. 

The potting bench measures 34.8 inches wide, 17.7 inches deep, and 45.5 inches high. It’s made from highly durable plastic with a wood-grain finish, and it’s designed to resist moisture, UV rays, cracking, rot, and fading for year-round outdoor use. It also features 3-tier shelving and five side hooks. The middle shelf supports up to 220 pounds at a 33.5-inch height, the angled-leg design adds stability, and the smooth surface is easy to wipe clean.

Serwall Outdoor Potting Bench with Storage, From $100 (was $250) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The shelves and hooks make it a breeze to keep supplies organized, and the weatherproof material is especially appealing if you don’t want to worry about upkeep. This storage bench is perfect for people who want something that can stay outside year-round and still hold up well.

One reviewer described the potting bench as “beautiful.” Another said the "lovely" table is  "easy to assemble and sturdy without being too heavy for one person to move around,” adding that it’s “perfect for a small patio or balcony.”

Related: Walmart's 'Comfy' $20 Strappy Slip-in Sandals 'Pack Easily and Go With Everything'

The wood-grain finish offers a warmer look than a typical utility table, so it can work with planters, patio furniture, lanterns, and other garden pieces without standing out. It would also look great on a balcony, next to a raised garden bed, or against the side of a deck. And even when you’re not actively potting anything, it can still work as a useful outdoor station.

If your patio or porch could use a better setup for gardening season, the Serwall Outdoor Potting Bench with Storage can help everything feel more organized right away. Be sure to snag yours now while it’s still marked down!

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Today, July 20, 2026, one of rock music's best guitarists ever celebrates his 79th birthday. Carlos Santana, founding member of Santana, was born in 1947 in Jalisco, Mexico—and remains the King of Latin Rock decades after beginning his career.

Santana first formed in 1966, later signing with Columbia Records with Carlos as the frontman. Throughout the '70s and early '80s, the fusion band released a string of successful albums, including Abraxas, Lotus, and Amigos, and made a major comeback in 1999 with the nine-time Grammy-winning Supernatural.

"Carlos Santana’s pioneering fusion of blues, jazz, and Latin music" was recognized by Rolling Stone on the famed music publication's roundup of the 250 Greatest Guitarists of All Time — and he nearly made the Top 10, coming in at No. 11. “His music was something new, but it was intertwined with everything else that was out there at the time,” said Henry Garza of Los Lonely Boys, per the outlet. “He incorporated his culture into the music.”

Despite attempting to emulate his heros at first, he always made his way back around to his own groove, forming a distinct musical identity and powerfully unique sound all his own. “As hard as I tried, I couldn’t — I always sounded like me," the guitarist admitted, according to Rolling Stone.

The artist has earned two No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, "Maria Maria" and "Smooth," and six Top 10s on the chart in total. He is best known for songs like "Black Magic Woman" and "Oye Como Va," and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998 alongside his band's classic core Woodstock-era lineup: Gregg Rolie, Michael Shrieve, David Brown, José Chepito Areas, and Michael Carabello.

For someone enjoying a lengthy, successful career spanning six decades, it doesn't seem he has plans to slow down anytime soon. As Parade recently reported, Santana announced on social media on July 7 that he was adding a few more dates to his Las Vegas, Nev., residency scheduled for later this year.

“The residency is in its 14th year at the intimate House of Blues, featuring unparalleled dynamic energy from Carlos and his band. The concert is a must-see live experience for fans of the award-winning artist,” the notice read.

Currently, the iconic musician is playing on the 2026 Oneness Tour with the Doobie Brothers, with the next concert slated for Aug. 6 in  Auburn, WA, followed by a handful of dates in select cities across California.

Dan + Shay are giving fans another look at their upcoming album Young with the release of a deeply personal new song. 

The award-winning country duo announced that "Her, The Kids and Jesus" will officially arrive on Friday, just weeks before the launch of their 2026 Young Tour and ahead of the release of their sixth studio album on Aug. 21.

Before the studio version drops, Dan + Shay shared a full acoustic performance of the song on social media.

The duo revealed that it is the first time they have posted an entire acoustic version before an official release since their debut album. They also hinted that longtime fans would remember the earlier song that received the same treatment: "19 You + Me."

Singing duo Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney perform before Game Two of the Stanley Cup Final between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Carolina Hurricanes at Lenovo Center on June 4, 2026 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Photo by Brian Babineau/NHLI via Getty Images

According to the duo, they decided to revive that tradition because "Her, The Kids and Jesus" means so much to them.

The song has already become familiar to some fans. Dan + Shay first performed it during a surprise pop-up appearance at La La Land Cafe in Nashville in December 2025, leaving fans waiting months to hear the finished recording. That wait will soon come to an end with Friday's official release.

View this post on Instagram Dan + Shay's New Song Reflects a New Chapter in Life

The title carries special meaning for the duo, whose songwriting has naturally evolved over the years.

When Dan + Shay first rose to fame, many of their songs focused on falling in love. Today, their music reflects the lives they have built with their families. Shay Mooney is now a father of four, while both Mooney and Dan Smyers have been married to their wives since 2017.

That life experience shapes "Her, The Kids and Jesus," a song centered on family, faith and the everyday moments that matter most.

Faith has remained an important part of the duo's journey. Earlier this year, Dan + Shay joined Brandon Lake, Lainey Wilson, and CeCe Winans during Cowboy Church at CMA Fest, an event that became the first in the festival's history to reach capacity across three separate locations. 

"Her, The Kids and Jesus" will appear on Young, which Dan + Shay have described as their most personal album to date.

The announcement also arrives as excitement continues to build for The Young Tour, Dan + Shay's first major headlining tour since their successful Heartbreak on the Map Tour in 2024.

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The 26-date North American run officially begins on Sept. 11 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville, Indiana, before making stops in cities including Syracuse, Grand Rapids, Pittsburgh, Tampa, Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Anaheim, and Mountain View, California. The tour is scheduled to conclude on Nov. 7 at Shoreline Amphitheatre.

Special guests Tyler Hubbard and Josh Ross will join the duo on most tour dates.

Fans can also expect a setlist that blends new material from Young with many of Dan + Shay's biggest hits, including "Tequila," "Speechless," "10,000 Hours," "From the Ground Up" and "19 You + Me." While the final setlist has not been confirmed, the upcoming shows are expected to feature songs from both the new album and the duo's previous releases.

The announcement continues a busy year for Dan + Shay. In recent months, the pair surprised one of their fans by appearing at her Nashville-area wedding, where they performed several songs, including the unreleased "Marry You Again,” before celebrating with guests during the reception. 

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Since forming in Nashville in 2012, Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney have become one of country music's most successful duos. Their catalog includes chart-topping hits such as "Tequila," "Speechless" and "10,000 Hours," while their work has earned multiple Grammy Awards and several No. 1 country singles.

Now, with "Her, The Kids and Jesus" arriving this Friday, Young set for release on Aug. 21 and a nationwide tour beginning in September, Dan + Shay are entering another chapter that reflects both their personal lives and their continuing evolution as artists.

Related: Country Star Announces New Album 36 Years After Beginning Career

Sandra Oh has spent her career stepping into the unknown, making her the perfect choice for today's Quote of the Day. Born on July 20, 1971, in Nepean, Ontario, Canada, to Korean immigrant parents, the Emmy-nominated actress has built an incredible career by refusing to let fear, rejection or uncertainty define her.

She first became a household name as Dr. Cristina Yang on Grey's Anatomy before making history with her starring role in Killing Eve, becoming the first actress of Asian descent to earn multiple Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Along the way, she has become a thoughtful advocate for resilience, authenticity and lifelong growth.

Although millions know her as the fiercely driven Cristina Yang, Oh's career extends far beyond one iconic role. She has earned critical acclaim for memorable performances in films including Sideways, Under the Tuscan Sun and Double Happiness, as well as television series such as The Chair. In recent years, she has also returned to her theatrical roots, taking on the part of Olivia in Shakespeare in the Park’s Twelfth Night. She made her Metropolitan Opera debut and is currently performing the title role of The Misanthrope at London's National Theatre, in a reimagining of Molière’s classic. Oh continues challenging herself with new artistic experiences.

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Off screen, Oh has become equally admired for her honesty about the obstacles she's faced. She has spoken candidly about encountering racism and limited opportunities early in her career, refusing to let those experiences define her future. Instead, she focused on becoming the best artist she could be, trusting that meaningful work would follow. That perseverance has helped make her one of Hollywood's most respected and influential performers.

Now in what she has described as the "rich middle" of her life, Oh has become a thoughtful voice on resilience, self-discovery and purpose. She frequently speaks about the importance of looking inward, embracing growth and finding strength through life's challenges rather than trying to avoid them. That perspective made her Dartmouth College commencement address especially powerful, as she encouraged graduates to stop fearing discomfort and instead see it as a path toward wisdom, compassion and lasting inner strength.

Those qualities were on full display in 2025 when Oh delivered Dartmouth's commencement address. Oh shared a lesson she learned through decades of navigating success, setbacks, self-doubt and personal growth. Her message is especially meaningful because it comes from someone who has lived it.

Related: Quote of the Day: Stoic Philosopher Marcus Aurelius on Having ‘Power Over Your Mind—Not Outside Events’

Quote of the Day by Sandra Oh

"If you can train yourself not to turn away, but to learn to be with your discomfort—and trust that it might be telling you something you don't yet know—it can help you develop an inner strength that will enable you to face the challenges life presents you with, without losing your values or your sense of self along the way."

This quote from Oh's commencement speech is powerful. Our instinct is often to avoid discomfort. We distract ourselves, search for quick fixes or wait for difficult feelings to pass. Oh suggests the opposite. She says that uncomfortable moments aren't obstacles to our lives. They are often where our greatest growth begins. When we stop resisting uncertainty, we become more open to discovering strengths we didn't know we possessed.

Oh's journey illustrates that truth. During her Dartmouth speech, Oh reflected on the immense success of Grey's Anatomy, explaining that while the series brought her fame, financial stability and privilege, it also became one of the most challenging decades of her life. Creative disagreements, relentless pressure and eventually physical and mental exhaustion forced her to realize that she couldn't simply power through every obstacle. Real change began only when she looked inward and changed her relationship with discomfort instead of trying to escape it.

But Oh didn't stop there. She told graduates that the strength we develop by facing discomfort isn't meant solely for our own benefit. The way through discomfort, she said, is kindness—not simply being nice, but cultivating the courage and compassion to stay present with our own pain instead of turning away from it. She encouraged graduates to "hold your own heartbreak" with tenderness so they can continue living, healing and making a difference in the world without losing themselves in fear or anger. "The kindness I'm talking about encompasses courage, respect and compassion," she said. "It's the opposite of weakness—it's the foundation for a lasting strength."

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross on Inner Light and Resilience Being ‘Like Stained-Glass Windows’

Deeper Meaning of Sandra Oh's Quote

Oh's advince offers a striking way to think about resilience. We often assume that becoming stronger means becoming tougher or more guarded. Oh argues the opposite. Real strength comes from remaining openhearted in the face of life's inevitable disappointments and uncertainties. By meeting discomfort with kindness instead of resistance, we build the inner resilience to face challenges without sacrificing our values or our humanity.

As Sandra Oh reminds us, discomfort is inevitable. The real question isn't whether we'll experience it—it's how we'll respond. If we're willing to stay present through life's difficult moments instead of running from them, they can become our greatest teachers, shaping us into people who are not only stronger but also wiser, kinder and more deeply connected to ourselves and to others.

Related: Quote of the Day: Philosopher Simone de Beauvoir on Life Gaining Value Through Love, Friendship and Compassion for Others

More Quotes from Sandra Oh

"Only now do I have enough strength and hopefully curiosity to go into the places of asking the question: Why did I do that? Who has been steering the ship? Because now, in this back half of my life, I'm the captain of the ship."

"The freer you are, the freer you let everyone else be."

"All the work that you're doing, on your own time, with your own heart, in the middle of the… night. That doubt? And the raw depression? And the questioning, and the anger? It's alchemising into something."

“In times like these, kindness might seem naive or pointless. But when I say kindness, I’m not talking about ‘being nice.’ I’m talking about being able to hold your own heartbreak, so we can go on living, go on resisting, go on building, go on healing. So we can meet cruelty again and again and not lose our humanity. The kindness I’m talking about encompasses courage and respect and compassion.”

If you want to protect academic freedom; if you want to stop the brutality of oppression; if you want true, democratic change; if you want to just live a good and simple life—the strength you will need to do these things begins with knowing kindness.”

"To me it's always been about how I feel and not really focus so much on how someone else might look at me. I just want to be happy and healthy and just live life on my terms and have fun."

"To me it's always been about how I feel and not really focus so much on how someone else might look at me. I just want to be happy and healthy and just live life on my terms and have fun."

Next, Harrison Ford Waited 15 Years for His Big Break—His Advice Still Resonates Today

It's not just one of the most recognizable and beloved movie soundtracks ever — The Sound of Music is also one of the highest-performing albums in Billboard history.

After a record-breaking run on the charts between 1965 and 1967, The Sound of Music is considered one of the best albums to ever top the chart, earning it a spot as the Billboard's No. 2 Greatest of All Time Album on the Billboard 200. (The No. 1 spot is held by Adele's 21 album).

The Sound of Music soundtrack debuted on the Billboard 200 in March 1965, and reached No. 1 by November of that year, spending two weeks at the chart's summit. It spent a staggering 109 weeks in the Top 10 on the albums chart, becoming the longest movie soundtrack album to ever do so.

The original score was written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein for The Sound of Music stage play in 1959, which was later adapted into the now-iconic film starring Julie Andrews. With enduring tracks like "My Favorite Things," "Do-Re-Mi" and "Climb Ev'ry Mountain," the soundtrack for the 1965 musical movie became a cultural juggernaut, as well as a massive success on the Billboard charts.

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The American Film Institute (AFI) ranks The Sound of Music as the No. 4 Greatest Movie Musical of All Time, while Letterboxd has it placed at No. 5 on its list of the Top Musical Films, as of July 2026.

"I don’t think I could have possibly guessed, ever, that it was going to be iconic as it has become," Andrews told Billboard in 2015 while celebrating the film's 50th anniversary. "If anyone had told me that 50 years after the fact I’d be still speaking to you about it and its magic, I could not have anticipated that or believed it."

The Sound of Music Full Track List

1. Prelude / The Sound of Music
2. Overture / Preludium (Dixit Dominus)
3. Morning Hymn / Alleluia
4. Maria
5. I Have Confidence
6. Sixteen Going on Seventeen
7. My Favorite Things
8. Do-Re-Mi
9. The Sound of Music
10. The Lonely Goatherd
11. So Long, Farewell
12. Climb Ev'ry Mountain
13. Something Good
14. Processional and Maria (The Wedding)
15. Edelweiss (Reprise)
16. Climb Ev'ry Mountain (Reprise)

Related: 74-Year-Old Country Icon With the Most No. 1s Is Surging on the Billboard Charts Again

Norwegian pop-rock band a-ha is enjoying another chart milestone more than four decades after releasing its signature hit. 

The group's classic single "Take On Me" has re-entered the Billboard Global 200 at No. 179, extending the song's remarkable longevity 41 years after it became the band's only No. 1 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

According to the latest Billboard Global 200 rankings, "Take On Me" returns to the chart at No. 179. The song previously reached a peak of No. 57 on the global ranking and has now spent 228 weeks on the chart, underscoring its enduring worldwide popularity.

Originally released in 1984 before being re-recorded and reissued in 1985, "Take On Me" transformed a-ha from an emerging Norwegian act into one of the defining bands of the 1980s. 

A-ha band posed for a group photo.

Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 in October 1985, becoming the trio's only No. 1 single in the United States and their biggest international success.

"Take On Me" has enjoyed one of the longest-lasting careers of any 1980s pop hit.

After its original 1984 release failed to make a major commercial impact, a-ha re-recorded the track with producer Alan Tarney for the band's debut album, Hunting High and Low (1985). Warner Bros. also invested in a new music video directed by Steve Barron, featuring its groundbreaking blend of live action and pencil-sketch animation through rotoscoping.

The combination of the updated recording and the innovative video helped propel the song to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 1985. It also climbed to No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart and topped charts across several countries, including Norway, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Italy and the Netherlands.

The single remains the band's only No. 1 hit in the United States, making its latest Billboard Global 200 return another significant milestone in its long chart history.

Beyond its original chart run, "Take On Me" has continued to generate strong streaming numbers in recent years. The song previously reached No. 57 on the Billboard Global 200 and has now accumulated 228 total weeks on the chart.

The song's popularity has extended well beyond traditional radio. Its iconic music video, famous for combining live action with hand-drawn animation, remains one of the most recognizable videos in music history. It won six awards at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards and continues to attract viewers decades after its debut.

The band's acoustic reinterpretation of "Take On Me," recorded during MTV Unplugged – Summer Solstice, has also found a large online audience.

According to The Music Man, the stripped-back version has amassed approximately 89 million YouTube views, while the band's Live 8 performance has reached around 80 million views. Their MTV Unplugged performance of the song has become their most-watched live performance on YouTube, surpassing 105 million views.

The renewed attention comes during another active period for the band. In February 2026, a-ha announced a 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition of their 2005 album Analogue, featuring previously unreleased recordings, remastered editions, demos, alternate versions and vinyl releases.

Formed in Oslo in 1982 by Morten Harket, Pål Waaktaar-Savoy, and Magne Furuholmen, a-ha has released eleven studio albums and sold more than 100 million albums and singles worldwide. While the band produced numerous international hits throughout Europe, "Take On Me" remains its defining global anthem.

Related: 1982 Rock Song, Once Spent 21 Weeks Charting, Became a Timeless Anthem

When Reba McEntire released For My Broken Heart in 1991, the album was more than just another career milestone.

It became a deeply personal reflection of loss, healing and resilience.

The record, which earned McEntire, 71, her first double-platinum certification in 1992, marked a major turning point in her career. It was also the first album she recorded following a devastating tragedy that changed her life forever.

On March 16, 1991, eight members of McEntire’s touring band and her tour manager, James Hammon, were killed when their chartered plane crashed near San Diego, California. McEntire and her husband at the time, Narvel Blackstock, were not on the flight and learned of the tragedy shortly afterward.

The loss had a profound impact on the country star, who had spent years performing alongside many of the musicians who died. In the months that followed, McEntire returned to the studio to record For My Broken Heart, an album that captured the grief she was experiencing while also showcasing her strength as an artist.

Released on October 1, 1991, the album featured emotional songs including the title track, "For My Broken Heart," as well as "Is There Life Out There" and "The Greatest Man I Never Knew." The record resonated with listeners and became one of the most successful albums of McEntire’s career.

For My Broken Heart spent 20 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and went on to become one of the best-selling country albums of the 1990s.

The album’s success was especially meaningful because it arrived during one of the most difficult periods of McEntire’s life. Rather than shy away from heartbreak, she used music to process grief and connect with fans who had experienced their own losses.

Over the years, McEntire has continued to speak about the importance of remembering the members of her band and crew who were lost. She has also honored their memory through performances and tributes, ensuring that their contributions to her career were never forgotten.

Zach Bryan is giving fans another preview of what's next.

The country star, whose chart-topping career includes the Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit "I Remember Everything" with Kacey Musgraves, has shared a teaser of a new unreleased song titled "Walk Backwards" on his YouTube channel as he continues his 2026 With Heaven on Tour.

The latest preview appears to be another song from Bryan's upcoming EP, Young Manhood andOther Donatable Organs, which he quietly announced earlier this month through the comment section of his YouTube uploads. While the singer-songwriter has confirmed the EP's title, he has not revealed a release date or track list.

"Walk Backwards" is the latest addition to a growing collection of unreleased songs Bryan has been posting online, keeping fans engaged between stadium tour stops despite releasing his sixth studio album just months ago.

Zach Bryan performs onstage during a concert at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as pert of his With Heaven On Tour on June 17, 2026 in London, U.K.

Photo by James Klug/Getty Images

Zach Bryan's New EP Continues to Take Shape

Bryan first revealed Young Manhood and Other Donatable Organs while uploading acoustic performances of the unreleased songs "Lodi When" and "Better Friends." Since then, anticipation has continued to build as fans wait for more details about the project.

His newest teaser, "Walk Backwards," follows the same stripped-down style, featuring Bryan performing with only his guitar.

Bryan has not confirmed whether "Walk Backwards" will appear on the EP, but it joins several recent unreleased songs that fans believe are connected to the project.

Along with "Lodi When" and "Better Friends," Bryan has previously shared "Breakfast in Bed," while songs such as "Pocket Change" and "You'll Get By" have also generated speculation among fans.

Despite the growing list of previews, Bryan has remained silent on when the EP will officially arrive.

Zach Bryan Balances New Music With Stadium Tour

The new teaser comes during one of the busiest years of Bryan's career.

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In January, he released With Heaven On Top, his sixth studio album, followed shortly afterward by a full acoustic version of the record. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, selling approximately 130,000 units during its opening week while placing 18 songs on the Billboard Hot 100.

Bryan has spent much of 2026 performing across the United States and Europe as part of his With Heaven on Tour, with more stadium shows scheduled through October.

His remaining tour dates include performances in San Diego, Salt Lake City, Denver, Arlington, Glendale, Dover, Toronto, Foxborough and Auburn, Alabama.

Away from the stage, Bryan has also experienced several personal milestones. He previously shared that he began his sobriety journey in late 2025 and married Samantha Leonard on New Year's Eve before launching his latest album.

Rather than following a traditional album rollout, Bryan has continued to debut unfinished or unreleased songs directly through YouTube, giving fans early access to new material while keeping details about official releases largely under wraps.

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

Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle covers all the bases, including everything from hand equipment to Cleveland football. Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Monday, July 20, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Monday, July 20, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

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

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

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

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

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on July 20, 2026

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

• Yellow: Like a rivalry or a contest.
• Green: Hand protection.
• Blue: Cleveland top picks.
• Purple: Typically the team's leader.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

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

• Yellow: TERMS FOR COMPETITIONS
• Green: TYPES OF GLOVES
• Blue: PLAYERS BROWNS HAVE DRAFTED NO. 1 OVERALL
• Purple: _____ QUARTERBACK

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

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #665 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• TERMS FOR COMPETITIONS: CUP, INVITATIONAL, SERIES, TOURNAMENT
• TYPES OF GLOVES: BASEBALL, BATTING, BOXING, GOALKEEPER
• PLAYERS BROWNS HAVE DRAFTED NO. 1 OVERALL: BROWN, COUCH, GARRETT, MAYFIELD
• _____ QUARTERBACK: ARMCHAIR, FRANCHISE, MONDAY MORNING, STARTING

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

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

Related: I Tried Reba McEntire's Unusual Juice Cocktail—and I Wasn't Expecting for It To Be My New 'Forever Love'

Shania Twain may be one of the biggest names in country music over the last three decades, but the story behind the name has always been a mystery — until now!

Twain, 60, sat down with CBSSunday Morning's Seth Doane to discuss her upcoming album, Little Miss Twain, when she spilled the truth about her stage name.

"Every song [on this album] is like a chapter in this journey of life from being Eileen to becoming Shania," the Canadian artist shared on Sunday, July 19. "And the Shania was a request from the label. So, as I'm getting signed, they asked me to change my last name, which I did not want to change because that was my family name, and I felt that I would be betraying my family and an identity that I was clinging to after my parents died."

She went on to explain that she heard the name Shania from "a wardrobe mistress" who was backstage at one of her shows.

"When I heard her name, I'm thinking, 'Oo, that's a good one.' You know, that's a pretty name. I like it. I'd never heard it before. It was very unique, and I just presented it to the label and said, 'What about Shania Twain?' And they loved it," she shared. "I guess it fell into my lap is probably a better way to say it."

Despite being internationally known as Shania, the "You're Still The One" artist revealed that most people in her life still call her Eileen.

Before Shania's latest revelation, rumors had circulated for decades surrounding the meaning behind her name. Many believed Shania was a tribute to the singer's late stepfather's native heritage, an Ojibway word meaning "on my way."

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

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

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #869 on Monday, July 20.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

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

Find theme words to fill the board.

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

Find the “spangram.”

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

Need a hint?

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

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "Small talk"

A hint for today's Strands game: Like the spider.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• MI
• TI
• LI
• MI
• MI
• IT (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is a mix of horizontal and diagonal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for July 20

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, July 20, 2026, isITSYBITSY.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Monday, July 20?

• MINIATURE
• TINY
• LITTLE
• MINUSCULE
• MICROSCOPIC
• SPANGRAM: ITSYBITSY

Related: I Tried Reba McEntire's Unusual Juice Cocktail—and I Wasn't Expecting for It To Be My New 'Forever Love'

Today’s New York Times Connections puzzle might make you think about mushrooms, but if you think hard enough, it will all start to click. 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 #1135 on Monday, July 20, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Monday, July 20, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

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

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

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Monday, July 20

1. Heads up!
2. What you do with a mouse.
3. They make a fabulous necklace.
4. Make mine a double!

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

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

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Monday, July 20:

1. ANNOUNCE: BLARE, HERALD, SOUND, TRUMPET
2. THINGS TO CLICK: BUTTON, ICON, LINK, MENU
3. ASSOCIATED WITH PEARLS: BUBBLE TEA, OYSTER, SWINE, WISDOM
4. STARTING WITH ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES: ALEXA, MEADOW, PORTOBELLO, SAKES

How'd you do?

Up Next:

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

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

Related: I Tried Reba McEntire's Unusual Juice Cocktail—and I Wasn't Expecting for It To Be My New 'Forever Love'

Today's NYT Wordle should be easy to solve if you love getting an up-close look at coral reefs. 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 #1857 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

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

What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is: You might need a scuba suit.

OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

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

We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1857 on Monday, July 20, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Monday, July 20, 2026, is DIVER.

-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)

“If you like piña coladas and gettin’ caught in the rain” might be some of the most familiar lyrics to music fans of the late '70s. But those words to the smash hit, “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” may have never happened had it not been for one simple lyric change. 

Written by Rupert Holmes, who also released the track on Sept. 17, 1979, according to Songfacts, “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” originally included the lyrical hook: “If you like Humphrey Bogart / And getting caught in the rain.” 

Realizing that he had already made references to various movies in his music, Holmes decided to explore a different lyrical direction, one that led with a feeling of wanting to get away. So he toyed with the idea of going on vacation. 

"I thought, 'What can I substitute?'” he explained. "Well, this woman wants an escape, like she wants to go on vacation to the islands. When you go on vacation to the islands, when you sit on the beach, and someone asks you if you'd like a drink, you never order a Budweiser; you don't have a beer. You're on vacation, you want a drink in a hollowed-out pineapple with the flags of all nations and a long straw.”

“I thought, 'Let's see, there's daiquiri, mai tai, piña colada - I wonder what a piña colada tastes like, I've never even had one,'” he continued. “I thought that instead of singing 'If you like Humphrey Bogart,' with the emphasis on 'like,' I could start it a syllable earlier and go, 'If you like Piñ-a Coladas.'"

While the song may inspire listeners to dream of the ultimate beach vacation, with a drink in hand, earning a spot on Billboard’s 2024 list of ‘10 Best Summer Songs About Going to the Beach," “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” is about much more than a carefree summer getaway. 

Close listeners will find that “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” actually explores the idea of temptation and marital dissatisfaction, with both partners secretly answering the same newspaper personal ad in search of someone new and exciting to run away with. However, they discover that their mysterious blind date is with each other. 

“I was in my apartment, and there was a copy of The Village Voice. Sometimes I look at personal columns to get ideas for songs because people fascinate me,” Holmes recalled how he came up with the idea for the song. “I saw this ad that a woman had placed in which she described herself in such glowing terms that I thought to myself, 'Why on earth, if you're this wonderful, do you need to place an ad in the personal columns?' Trying not to be cynical, I thought, 'Let's be fair, maybe she's just looking for an adventure…. Then I thought to myself, 'What would happen if I answered this ad…With my stupid luck, I would answer the ad and find out it had been placed by the woman I was living with, never realizing that she was bored with me.” 

“Escape (The Piña Colada Song),” which served as the lead single from Holmes’ fifth studio album, Partners in Crime, was a major success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming the final song of the ‘70s to do so. The track was also an international hit, charting in countries like Australia, Canada, Ireland, and others.

Related: 1979 No. 1 Soft Rock Classic Ranked Among 'Best Beach Songs' of All Time Became a Vacation Anthem

Temple of the Dog didn't just emerge as one of the "greatest supergroups" of all time, but also delivered one of rock's most iconic songs with "Hunger Strike."

Formed by an all-star lineup led by Soundgarden vocalist Chris Cornell, the band also featured Soundgarden drummer Matt Cameron, former Mother Love Bone members Stone Gossard and Jeff Ament,  guitarist Mike McCready and vocalist Eddie Vedder.

The supergroup was intended as a one-time project that brought together members of Soundgarden and the musicians who would soon form Pearl Jam, two defining acts of the grunge movement.

Temple of the Dog introduced itself with the release of "Hunger Strike" in 1991, the lead single from its sole, self-titled album.

Written by the late Chris Cornell, he composed the track because he wanted the album to have an even number of songs, according to Louder Sound.

"So I had this other song that I whipped up so we could have ten, because I just have to have ten," he shared. 

Jeff Ament, Matt Cameron, Chris Cornell, Stone Gossard and Mike McCready of the band Temple Of The Dog perform onstage at Madison Square Garden in 2016

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

With Eddie Vedder joining Cornell for a duet, the vocal pairing became one of the song's defining features.

As mentioned by the same publication, Cornell recalled the moment Vedder first recorded the song.

“I feel this shadow presence over my shoulder,” the late vocalist shared. “And there’s only one mike, and the chorus comes around again, and he sort of moves his shoulder in just to let me know he’s got a plan. And I don’t know him. We had said hi… So he hit the “Going hungry,” I sang the high part and then he hit it again. All of a sudden, a lightbulb went off in my head and I thought, 'His voice sounds incredible in that deep register.'”

The track became a commercial success, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart.

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Further proving its lasting appeal, "Hunger Strike" has continued to earn recognition decades after its release, landing on several "Greatest Grunge Songs of All Time" rankings. Among those publications is Paste Magazine, which described the song as “one of the most melodic and beautiful soundscapes to come out of the grunge movement.”

On Reddit, users lauded the '90s song as “one of the most beautiful songs ever made” while others called it “the best grunge song.”

Fans also see “Hunger Strike” as a “timeless” song that still sounds meaningful and resonates with listeners even years or decades after its release. 

Related: ’90s Rock Band, With Classic Radio Anthem, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

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While it doesn't seem like it would be the case, there are plenty of songs about sports, specifically soccer, AKA football. For instance, in June 2026, The Guardian released a ranking of "the 20 greatest songs about football."

The publication's list featured soccer-themed songs like "Touchline" by Rod Stewartfrom 2021, 2011's "Every Defeat a Divorce (Three Lions)" by Los Campesinos!, and Billy Bragg's 1991 tune "God’s Footballer." The ranking's top five were "Marcus Rashford" by Youngs Teflon from 2017, 2019's "Two Halves" by Richard Dawson, "False 9" by AJ Tracey from 2017, 1999's "England 2 Colombia 0" by Kirsty MacColl, with The Fall's 1983 song "Kicker Conspiracy" securing the number one spot.

Late The Fall Member Mark E. Smith Shared Details About 'Kicker Conspiracy' in a 2000 Interview

During a 2000 interview with When Saturday Comes, the vocalist and lyricist of The Fall, Mark E. Smith, who died in 2018 when he was 60, discussed "Kicker Conspiracy," off the English band's sixth album, Perverted by Language. He said that the band's record label, Rough Trade Records, wasn't interested in a song that focused on soccer.

"You couldn’t mention football in the rock world then. We were on Rough Trade and I told them 'This is about football violence' and it was all 'You don’t go to football, do you?' I remember Melody Maker saying, “Mark Smith’s obviously got writer’s block having to write about football,'" said Smith. "About five years later, the same guy reviewed something else saying it was a load of rubbish and 'nowhere near the heights of Kicker Conspiracy.' And now, of course, all the old music hacks are sat in the directors’ box with Oasis."

While speaking to When Saturday Comes, Smith explained why he was a Manchester City F.C. fan. He said one of his reasons was because he wanted "to be contrary" to his father, who was "a United fan."

"Back in the 1950s he’d to go to away games on his bike – he’d cycle to places like Leicester. But I converted him to City," said Smith during the 2000 interview.