Parade
Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, February 9, 2026
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 #708 on Monday, February 9.
How to Play StrandsThe 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.
A hint for today's Strands game: Cheers!
What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?Warning: Spoilers ahead!
In today's puzzle, there are seven theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:
- PI
- RU
- TA
- LU
- SE
- PA
- AI (SPANGRAM)
Today's Spangram is mostly horizontal.
NYT Strands Spangram Answer for February 9Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, February 9, 2026, is AIRPORTS.
What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Monday, February 9?- PILOT
- RUNWAY
- TARMAC
- LUGGAGE
- SECURITY
- PASSPORT
- SPANGRAM: AIRPORTS
Related: Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, February 8, 2026
Brad Pitt Sequel's Super Bowl Teaser Catches Fans by Surprise: 'Looks Incredible'
Welcome back, Oscar-winner Brad Pitt. It's always a pleasure.
"Cliff Booth" is the role that brought the A-lister, 62, his sole Academy Award on the acting front. Pitt has won Oscar gold for other projects behind the lens, but his on-screen appeal in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood certainly won everyone over back in 2019.
It makes sense, then, that a sequel has been in the works, with Quentin Tarantino back to write the script. David Fincher, however, has taken the director's chair — a change that has left fans especially eager to see how the end result will pan out.
Enter Super Bowl LX, where a surprise teaser dropped for The Adventures of Cliff Booth, which is set to release sometime this year (courtesy of Netflix).
In the upbeat spot that's glossed over with a purposefully vintage look, fellow award-winning performer Elizabeth Debicki (The Crown) and other familiar faces can be spotted alongside the wise-cracking Pitt. Check it out below.
Fans have already flooded the comments section of one YouTube upload of the teaser, courtesy of Entertainment Tonight. "Another masterpiece," wrote one user, while another person commented, "Looks incredible."
Other commenters expressed reservations about a Fincher-directed film heading to Netflix specifically — versus getting a full-on theatrical release. Plus, there's the potential drawback of a Tarantino script being directed by someone other than the man himself (despite the fact that Fincher is also quite talented on the filmmaking front).
Though Tarantino, 62, wrote the script for the follow-up, he previously shared that one reason he didn’t want to helm Cliff Booth was because he didn’t want his 10th and final film to be a sequel, The Hollywood Reporter noted on Sunday, Feb. 8.
Last august, Pitt was spotted in California working on set of the movie the same day that his mother died. It’s unclear if the photos were taken before or after his mother died.
NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Monday, February 9, 2026
There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, StrandsMini 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 #974 on Monday, February 9, 2026.
Today's NYT Connections puzzle for Monday, February 9, 2026 / New York TimesIf 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, February 9- A textile art.
- How you do something.
- Related to books and money.
- You might do this with crayons.
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, February 9:1. USED IN WEAVING: LOOM, NEEDLE, SCISSORS, YARN
2.METHOD: APPROACH, MANNER, STYLE, WAY
3. KINDS OF PAYMENT FOR AN AUTHOR: ADVANCE, BONUS, FEE, ROYALTY
4. DRAW ___: NEAR, POKER, STRAWS, THE LINE
How'd you do?
Up Next:
- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle
Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers
Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Sunday, February 8, 2026
'90s Metal Band Announces Update on First-Ever Show in Beloved Country
Metal icons Pantera are gearing up for an unforgettable performance set for 2026.
With a series of shows on the horizon, the legendary quartet shared updates regarding the performance that both the band and fans won’t forget.
In an Instagram post, the “Cowboys from Hell” hitmaker announced that tickets for their July 9 set at Release Athens Festival are officially on sale.
“Tickets to @ReleaseAthens are available now! This will be our first time playing in Greece! We hope to see all of you there. Release Athens 2026. July 9, Plateia Nerou, Athens, GR. Get your tickets now at Pantera.com/tour,” the caption reads.
Tickets to @ReleaseAthens are available now! This will be our first time playing in Greece! We hope to see all of you there.
Release Athens 2026
July 9, Plateia Nerou, Athens, GR
Get your tickets now at https://t.co/tVWNiA5MFe
📷: @metaldavemedia pic.twitter.com/Lg7Rvv0YaU
The post sparked excitement from fans who couldn't wait to see them make their debut at the historic location.
Marking its 10th anniversary, the upcoming festival promises fans an epic summer of music with a multi-day lineup running from mid-June through late July 2026. Headliners include Chris Isaak, Limp Bizkit, David Byrne, Nick Cave, Gorillaz, Sabaton and more.
Phil Anselmo of Pantera performs at Pine Knob Music Theatre on July 17, 2025 in Clarkston, Michigan.Here’s the rundown of dates and headliners for Release Athens 2026
- June 13: Chris Isaak (Special Show)
- June 15: Limp Bizkit, Viagra Boys, Ecca Vandal
- June 21: David Byrne, Nation of Language, Deadletter
- June 22: Jean-Michel Jarre
- June 24: Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Baxter Dury, Anna von Hausswolff
- June 25: Gorillaz, The Flaming Lips, Jehnny Beth
- June 27: Pet Shop Boys
- June 28: Three Days Grace
- June 30: Megadeth, Sepultura
- July 1: Moby, Garbage
- July 7: The Offspring, Bad Religion, High Vis
- July 9: Pantera
- July 10: Helloween, Saxon, Ashes of Ares
- July 11: Thievery Corporation, The Wailers, BALTHVS
- July 25: Sabaton, Savatage, Epica
In addition to Pantera’s debut performance in Greece, the band also confirmed they will be joining fellow rock icon Metallica for the M72 European and U.K. tour together with Avatar as special guests.
The show will kick off in Germany on May 24, followed by one-night shows in Hungary and Ireland before concluding in the U.K.
M72 European and U.K. Tour Dates
- May 24, 2026 – Frankfurt, Germany – Deutsche Bank Park
- June 11, 2026 – Budapest, Hungary – Puskás Aréna
- June 19, 2026 – Dublin, Ireland – Aviva Stadium
- July 5, 2026 – London, U.K. – London Stadium
Related: '80s Heavy Metal Icon Releases New Band Music for the First Time in 17 Years
Today's Wordle Hint, Answers for #1696 on Monday, February 9, 2026
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. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1696 ahead.
Let's start with a few hints.
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 double letters in today's Wordle.
Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?Today's Wordle answer can refer to a musical instrument.
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 #1696 on Monday, February 9, 2026.Today's Wordle answer on Monday, February 9, 2026, is CELLO.
-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.
Related: Today's Wordle Hint, Answers for #1695 on Sunday, February 8, 2026
A Super Bowl Wedding? Bad Bunny Just Took Halftime to a Whole New Level
Bad Bunny just made history as the first Super BowlHalftime Show performer to sing primarily in Spanish. But he did a lot more than just that.
As the New England Patriots and the game’s eventual victors, the Seattle Seahawks, took to the locker room for a breather, Levi’s Stadium was transformed into a vibrant haven of Puerto Rican culture, with the Latin trap artist at its center. Singing his hits including "Debí Tirar Más Fotos" and "Yo Perreo Sola," the set ran nearly 15 minutes.
One of the best parts of the night was that wedding. Which, yes, was REAL.
According to ESPN, the couple, who were featured throughout Bad Bunny's set, beginning with the proposal, were legally married. Later in the performance, the two can be seen saying yes and sharing a kiss.
View this post on InstagramAs for how it came together, Bad Bunny frequently receives invites to weddings from his fans, and he wanted to celebrate at least one couple’s big day on his big day, Wired reported in an interview with Bruce Rodgers, co-producer of the show.
Further surprises included Lady Gaga singing a rendition of “Die With a Smile,” Ricky Martin belting out Bad Bunny’s "Lo Qus Le Paso a Hawaii," and the artist handing over his recently won Grammy to a little boy (more on that here).
Celeb cameos included appearances by Jessica Alba, Pedro Pascal, and Alix Earle, all hanging outside Bad Bunny’s “La Casita.” There was also a quick shot of New York legend Toñita, the owner of the Caribbean Social Club in Brooklyn.
Overall, Bad Bunny’s 2026 Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show required 9,852 theatrical pyrotechnics, including color, smoke, and fireworks, per Wired, but the prevailing theme and takeaway was plastered on a billboard above the field: “The only thing more powerful than hate is love.”
Bravo.
Lewis Hamilton, Kim Kardashian Fuel Dating Rumors With Super Bowl Appearance
Formula 1 racer Lewis Hamiltonand reality TV star and entrepreneur Kim Kardashianwere spotted in a suite together at Super Bowl LX, further fueling the rumors that the two are dating.
As has been reported by People, Hamilton and Kardashian were recently seen together in Paris, sparking conversations that there may be something romantic going on between the two. Although nothing has been confirmed since then, their appearance at the Super Bowl has only deepened speculations about the nature of their relationship.
View this post on InstagramHamilton's dating life has been relatively private over the last 10 years. The racer has been linked to or rumored to be with several women in the last decade or so, but none has been a confirmed romantic partner since Nicole Scherzinger, whom Hamilton dated from approximately 2007 to 2015.
Kardashian's dating life has frequently been much more public, particularly with her marriage to Kanye West (now known as Ye), which began in 2014 and legally ended in 2022. During that period, the couple also welcomed four children.
Following her split from West, Kardashian also had a relatively public relationship with comedian Pete Davidson, although the two reportedly broke it off in the summer of 2022. Since then, Kardashian has spoken openly on her family's Hulu show, The Kardashians, about her complex feelings regarding dating and relationships.
In particular, Kardashian has spoken about the difficulties she has experienced in previous relationships as well as in her coparenting dynamic. Yet, perhaps with Hamilton, Kardashian has found new love.
At present, that remains rumored only; being spotted together doesn't necessarily mean that the two are in a romantic relationship. However, this new sighting of Hamilton and Kardashian together at the Super Bowl has only intensified the rumors that they are romantically linked, and based on online chatter, there are many who would love to see these two stars officially together.
Who Was the Little Boy in Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show? The Internet Got It Wrong
Everybody was buzzing over Bad Bunny'shalftime show that aired during the 2026 Super Bowl. There were plenty of celebrity sightings throughout the elaborate performance, and quite a few viewers thought they recognized the little boy who was featured during a touching moment.
After the show aired, the Internet lit up with people wondering if they recognized the little boy to whom Bad Bunny gave one of his Grammys. Many people thought it was Liam Conejo Ramos, the 5-year-old boy from Minnesota who had been taken into ICE custody recently with his father.
Ramos, who became recognized by the blue bunny hat he was wearing when ICE took custody of him and his father, spent over a week in detention in Texas before being released to return home to Minnesota with his father.
"Wait hold up... Did Bad Bunny just give his Grammy to Liam Conejo Ramos the poor kid who was kidnapped by ICE? If so amazing," one person questioned on X, formerly Twitter.
"Omg Bad Bunny brought little Liam Ramos...to the Super Bowl and made him part of his show...I'm not crying, you're crying," another tweet read.
"Bad Bunny giving his Grammy award to Liam Conejo Ramos, the 5 year old kid who was kidnapped by ICE, was such a beautiful moment," someone else posted.
Yesterday, five-year-old Liam and his dad Adrian were released from Dilley detention center. I picked them up last night and escorted them back to Minnesota this morning.
Liam is now home. With his hat and his backpack.
Thank you to everyone who demanded freedom for Liam. We… pic.twitter.com/XmUvXEthma
However, the little boy incorporated into Bad Bunny's halftime show was not Ramos. Rather, the little boy is an entertainer named Lincoln Fox.
View this post on InstagramAfter the show, the Instagram page for Fox shared a clip from the show. "I'll remember this day forever! #badbunnypr - it was my truest honor," the caption of the post read.
Included in the caption were a couple of especially telling hashtags. "Young Bad Bunny" was one, and "Little Bad Bunny" was the other. As some fans speculated online, the little boy symbolized a young Bad Bunny.
Dunkin’ Is Giving Away Free Iced Coffee Tomorrow—Here's the Code
Dunkin' is giving away free coffee tomorrow—even better, there's no size limit, it's just a part of its Good Will Dunkin' campaign.
Those who caught this year's Super Bowl ad will know exactly what we mean without further explanation. And for those of you who didn't, it's fine, there's no quiz to get the free coffee, but the celebrity-studded ad spot is certainly worth a watch.
Here's the gist: Dunkin', along with the talent of Ben Affleck,Jennifer Aniston, Matt LeBlanc, Jason Alexander, Ted Danson, Alfonso Ribeiro, Jaleel White and Jasmine Guy (not to mention a surprise cameo by Tom Brady), brought viewers back to the 1995-era of TV—if only momentarily—to celebrate the "accidental 'invention'" of iced coffee inside a Dunkin’ in Cambridge, Mass. Why 1995? It's a nod to the year it first began advertising its now-famous iced coffee to the world.
"The ’90s gave us iconic sitcoms, and Dunkin’ gave the world iced coffee," Jill Nelson, chief marketing officer at Dunkin’, shared in a statement. "Good Will Dunkin’ brings us back in time to imagine the moment those worlds collided. It’s a reminder that Dunkin’ has always been part of everyday culture, and proof that it always will be."
Dunkin' Offering Free Coffee and a '90s-Inspired Merch Drop for a Limited TimeTo make the promotion even sweeter, Dunkin' is giving away 1.995 million iced coffees on Monday, Feb. 9, with no size requirement. All fans need to score the freebie is the Dunkin' app and the promo code "GOODWILLDUNKIN."
Related: Dunkin’s First Menu Update of 2026 Taps Into Growing Trend
View this post on InstagramIn honor of the "forgotten masterpiece" and "lost episode," Dunkin' has dug up a limited collection of authentic vintage and '90s-inspired apparel that perfectly encapsulates the '90s vibes and what a milestone moment the year was for Dunkin' iced coffee.
The special merch drop includes vintage-style mugs and tumblers, a throwback koozie, a denim jacket that channels peak ’90s energy, and a “Will Hunting”-inspired visor-with-hair hat lets guests show up as their own Boston-born sitcom lead. The entire collection is available to shop now, exclusively via the DunkinRunOnMerch website (spoiler alert: the items are going fast).
View this post on InstagramDunkin’ is also turning one of the spot’s most iconic elements into a real-world challenge.
Teaming up with John Urschel, an MIT professor and former NFL player, Dunkin' is ready to give away a year's worth of free coffee plus collectible merch signed by Affleck and Matt Damon to one lucky fan who solves its math problem.
If you're only here for the freebies, let us help you maximize your Monday deal potential—at some point, you'll want to hit Starbucks, which is also giving away free coffee to its rewards members, but only on Monday (Feb. 9).
Next: Previously Exclusive Monster Energy Drink Finally Expands Nationwide
Blue Ivy Carter Is 14 and Looks Just Like Beyoncé at the Super Bowl Alongside Jay-Z
Blue Ivy Carter may only be 14 years old, but she could easily pass as Beyoncé's twin!
The teen style queen hit Super Bowl 2026 on Sunday night in San Francisco, California, alongside her father, Jay-Z. But one glance at the duo might require you to do a double-take, because Blue is a dead ringer for her musical legend mother. Hitting the field before the Seattle Seahawks beat the New England Patriots, Blue smiled alongside her pops and sisterRumi, who was also spotted.
Photo by Kevin C. Cox on Getty Images
Her Outfit Was Worth Thousands of DollarsFollowing in the typical family style, Blue didn't hit the Super Bowl without the perfect outfit in check. The stylish teen sported a $3895 black-and-white Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh letterman jacket with a casual white Jaded London jersey, Teen Vogue reported. Paired with rolled down jeans, a pearl wallet chain, shield sunglasses, and Timberland boots, she capped it off with a Balenciaga Neo Cagole City tote in denim, the publication continued. Now that's fashion detective work.
Blue Ivy's Grandmother, Tina Knowles, Celebrated Her Granddaughter's Recent BirthdayLast month, Blue Ivy's grandmother, Tina Knowles, took to Instagram to celebrate her granddaughter's 14th birthday.
“I remember the day that we found out about you being in your mom’s womb. We could not have been more excited,” Knowles wrote. “We were told that you were the size of a blueberry and that is where your name came from!”
Knowles continued, sharing that "we all prayed together for you every single day till you were 12 weeks old in your mom's belly! Then we prayed individually until you arrived months later. It was apparent that you were a fighter from the beginning.”
Knowles concluded by sharing how proud she is of Beyoncé's eldest daughter.
“To say that I’m a proud grandmother is an understatement! Even with all of your accomplishments and success, you remain a very sweet, kind humble human being,” Knowles noted. “To my manager, makeup artist, fashion adviser, my love. Happy Birthday.”
View this post on InstagramAldi's $5 3-Wick Candle Is Twinning With a Bath & Body Works Bestseller That's 5x the Price
Aldi has quietly mastered the art of the almost-dupe, and it impresses me every single time. The grocery store chain manages to create products that look, feel and function eerily close to their pricier counterparts, without ever crossing into full-on copycat territory. The packaging is familiar but not identical, the vibe is right, and the price tag is dramatically lower. It's a stealth move that makes shoppers do a double-take in the aisle, followed by a very satisfying "wait a second" moment.
This knack shows up everywhere, from cookware and kitchen tools to home décor and candles. And speaking of candles, Bath & Body Works' three-wick candles have a cult-like following for a reason—those scents are strong and nostalgic. They're also not cheap, especially once you start stockpiling your favorites. That's where Aldi swoops in with a three-wick candle that's basically the spitting image of a beloved BBW scent, right down to the look and feel, but for a fraction of the price.
Kirkton House 3-Wick Candle in Garden Sage & White Tea, $4.99 at AldiAldi
Aldi's new Kirkton House 3-Wick Candle in Garden Sage & White Tea is only $4.99 and a downright twin for Bath & Body Works' iconic White Tea & Sage candle (regularly priced at $24.95).
Related: The Globally Curated Wine Box That Will Take Galentine's Day to the Next Level
Not only is the fragrance nearly identical, but the packaging style is similar as well, right down to the very colors BBW uses for this scent. And, for the record, Aldi's three-wick candle is 14 ounces, while Bath & Body Works' three-wicks are a comparable 14.5 ounces.
Even when Bath & Body Works celebrates its annual Candle Day (typically the first Friday in December), the retailer's three-wick candles are only marked down to 9.95—that's still almost twice the price of Aldi's offerings.
If you're interested in other Aldi dupes, a Parade food writer recently compared Aldi's private label version of Sprite to the real thing, and the results are surprising. It's also selling a chic bamboo storage ladder that smacks of something you'll find in West Elm at a much steeper price. But don't stop there, because Aldi's latest runner rugs could easily pass for pricier Ruggable versions.
Next time you hit Aldi, don't just beeline for one thing. The Aldi Finds aisle is a mecca for little luxuries at affordable prices.
Related: Five Below's $7 Trifold Mirror Is an Anthropologie-Coded Treasure
Lady Gaga Represents Latin America with Super Bowl Outfit
Lady Gaga's surprise appearance during Bad Bunny's Super Bowlhalftime show was nothing anyone could have expected. But when it came to dressing up for the event, the singer-songwriter understood the assignment and made an effort to contribute to the celebration of Latin American culture, which was the theme of the show tonight.
The stunning baby blue flamenco-style dress worn by Lady Gaga as she sang a special rendition of her 2024 hit "Die With A Smile" was designed by the Dominican designer Raul Lopez's LUAR and styled by the legendary duo Chloe and Chenelle Delgadillo. The dress also featured a custom floral accessory that was pinned to the dress, specially designed by Piers Atkinson, and meant to represent the flor de maga — Puerto Rico's national flower.
View this post on InstagramThe decision to make the dress that specific shade of light blue is almost certainly a reference to the 1895 edition of the Puerto Rico flag, which features a light blue triangle instead of the dark blue one that is most commonly used. The light blue flag represents the independence of Puerto Rico and a rejection of the United States' control over the country. The flag is also a representation of Puerto Rican pride and has been a common motif in many of Bad Bunny's previous works, including tonight's Super Bowl halftime show.
LUAR's founder and creative director, Raul Lopez, took to Instagram story to share some behind-the-scenes content of the creation of the dress.
"For the culture and for all immigrants —This is how we come together," the designer wrote in an Instagram post.
View this post on InstagramAll these elements combined made Lady Gaga's standout Super Bowl a clear homage to the beauty of Latin American culture and the perfect fit for Bad Bunny's history-making performance. Fans reacted with excitement and admiration on social media over the singer's choice of dress.
"Lady Gaga sang beautifully and her dress 😍. What a show!" wrote one fan on X.
"Lady Gaga making this song more latin and having Latin theme music with it? The dress? So beautiful 🥰🥰🥰" wrote another fan.
Another posted, "lady gaga looked so pretty i need that dress immediately !!!"
Latin American culture was on full display at tonight's Super Bowl halftime show, from the music that was performed by Bad Bunny and his special guests to the clothes that were intentionally designed and worn during the monumental performance.
Bruce Springsteen Tops This Billboard Chart for the First Time With New Protest Song
The Boss continues to shine on the charts well into his 70s.
Bruce Springsteen has earned himself yet another milestone after releasing a powerful new protest song in response to recent immigration enforcement in the U.S. Thanks to "Streets of Minneapolis," the iconic singer-songwriter, 76, topped Billboard's Digital Song Sales chart for the first time.
The track sold a whopping 16,000 downloads in just two days and "is drawing attention for its pointed subject matter, inspired by events surrounding ICE activity in Minneapolis," the magazine noted this past week.
View this post on InstagramFans took to the comments section of Billboard's recent Instagram post celebrating Springsteen's milestone to show their support for the Boss. "That song is just incredible, it enters your soul, it stays with you," wrote one user, while another person commented, "Emotional Song 👍 ❤️ I love Bruce, the Best, the Boss ❤️ Springsteen ❤️❤️🎼🎸👍❤️❤️❤️."
The Digital Song Sales survey began in 2004 following the proliferation of paid downloads on the internet, Billboard reports. Springsteen claimed the biggest of nine debuts this past week on the now-coveted chart, and one of a trio of top 10, Forbes noted on Saturday, Feb. 7. “Streets of Minneapolis” beat out “Aperture” by Harry Styles and “Let ‘Em Know” from hip-hop musician T.I. Those singles opened at Nos. 4 and 5, respectively.
The Boss wrote and recorded his anti-ICE song following the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis in January amid Operation Metro Surge, during which undocumented immigrants have been targeted and apprehended by immigration-enforcement agents.
“I wrote this song on Saturday, recorded it yesterday and released it to you today in response to the state terror being visited on the city of Minneapolis,” Springsteen wrote on Instagram Jan. 28. “It’s dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good.”
He signed the post, “Stay free, Bruce Springsteen.”
View this post on Instagram1965 Bob Dylan 'Diss Track' Named ‘One of the Best Songs Ever Written’
A Bob Dylan song released in 1965 is being recognized once again as one of the best songs ever written, over six decades after it first stunned listeners.
"Positively 4th Street," Dylan’s famously sharp standalone single, was recently highlighted by Collider as one of the greatest songs ever written, drawing renewed attention to its biting lyrics and lasting influence.
RELATED: Bob Dylan ‘Disappointed a Lot of People,’ Folk Legend Recalls of His Earliest Days
Released in September 1965, "Positively 4th Street" arrived during a turbulent period in Dylan’s career, following backlash to his electric turn and his break from the traditional folk scene. Though recorded during the Highway 61 Revisited sessions, the song was released as a single and never appeared on one of his original studio albums.
Chart-wise, the track was a hit, reaching the Top 10 in the U.S. and U.K. and going to No. 1 in Canada. Its legacy, however, rests on its tone. The song’s lyrics are widely regarded as some of the most openly bitter Dylan ever wrote, skewering false friends and quiet resentment with startling directness.
RELATED: This ‘Monumental Flop’ Was Named the ‘Worst Eagles Solo Album Ever’
For decades, fans and critics have debated who the song was aimed at. One frequently cited possibility is fellow folk singer Phil Ochs, who had publicly criticized Dylan’s move away from traditional protest music and later experienced a falling-out with him. While Dylan never confirmed a specific target, the song’s venomous language fueled speculation that it reflected deeper rifts within the Greenwich Village folk community.
Positively 4th Street has since appeared on multiple Dylan compilations and continues to be praised as one of his most cutting and influential recordings — a reminder of how sharply a pop song can sting when it tells an uncomfortable truth.
NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Monday, February 9, 2026
If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. 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 on for Today's Mini Crossword on Monday, February 9, 2026, 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!
Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Monday, February 9, 2026Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Hints1 Across: Stopper that may get popped — HINT: Starts with the letter "C"
5 Across: ___ Kim, Olympian whose name aptly rhymes with "snowy" —HINT: Ends with the letter "E"
6 Across: Like terrain that's good for sledding — HINT: Ends with the letter "Y"
7 Across: Diabolical deeds — HINT: Starts with the letter "E"
8 Across: Lawyer's charges — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"
Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours
NYT Mini Down Hints1 Down: Green additive to cream cheese — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"
2 Down: Basic jump in snowboarding — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"
3 Down: Nose ___ (snowboarding moves) — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"
4 Down: Piano's set of 88 — HINT: Starts with the letter "K"
5 Down: Title for Carmy or Sydney on "The Bear" — HINT: Ends with the letter "F"
Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Monday, February 9, 2026Don'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: Stopper that may get popped — CORK
5 Across: ___ Kim, Olympian whose name aptly rhymes with "snowy" — CHLOE
6 Across: Like terrain that's good for sledding — HILLY
7 Across: Diabolical deeds — EVILS
8 Across: Lawyer's charges — FEES
NYT Mini Down Answers1 Down: Green additive to cream cheese — CHIVE
2 Down: Basic jump in snowboarding — OLLIE
3 Down: Nose ___ (snowboarding moves) — ROLLS
4 Down: Piano's set of 88 — KEYS
5 Down: Title for Carmy or Sydney on "The Bear" — CHEF
Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Sunday, February 8, 2026
‘90s Rock Legend’s NFL Appearance Sparks Super Bowl Halftime Show Demand
Dave Grohl, the iconic drummer of Nirvana and Foo Fighters’ frontman, made an unexpected appearance at the NFL championship game on Sunday.
As football fans around the world tuned in to the thrilling matchup between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks at the much-awaited Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the rock star’s presence did not go unnoticed.
In a post shared by the league on its official social media, Grohl’s epic reaction caught attention.
The camera caught the 57-year-old musician looking surprised as he saw his image on the Jumbotron. He joined in the celebration by downing a beer while enjoying the game from the audience.
Dave Grohl at the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year Honoring Mariah Carey at Los Angeles Convention Center.Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
Fans in the comments section were not only thrilled by the vocalist’s unexpected appearance but also ignited conversations about his long-overdue Super Bowl halftime performance.
Social media users expressed their eagerness to see Grohl with his band take on the legendary stage next.
View this post on Instagram“Foo Fighters' next year's halftime show,” one wrote.
“Foo Fighters should’ve been the halftime show,” a commenter echoed.
“Foo Fighters! Next year's Halftime show!” a fan remarked on it as well.
The same goes for a follower who said, “His band should do halftime next year.”
“Put Foo Fighters for the next Halftime Show!!” an Instagram user added.
On X, fans were also thinking the same, with one noting “He should be on stage for how much they play Foo Fighters during the football games on TV,” referring to the Madden NFL 26 game soundtrack.
“@foofighters need to headline the #SuperBowl halftime show next year,” an X user posted.
“Should have had him perform the halftime show. Will not be watching the halftime Show, as many people won't be watching,” a follower added.
For this year’s Super Bowl halftime performance, Puerto Rican singer and rapper Bad Bunny took the stage, performing his classic hits, including “Tití Me Preguntó,” “Yo Perreo Sola” and more with the chart-topping “DtMF” for his remarkable closing song.
View this post on InstagramOn top of this, Bad Bunny also invited Lady Gaga as his special guest for their vibrant salsa-infused version of “Die with a Smile,” highlighting the vibe of Puerto Rican culture.
Apart from the “Bad Romance” hitmaker, the newly minted Grammy Album of the Year winner also invited Ricky Martin for a special performance.
Related: 1994 Tearjerker Ranked 'Greatest Live Album’ of All Time
'Today's Al Roker Takes Part in Special Super Bowl ‘Honor’
Before fans entered the stadium and the teams took the field for this year's Super Bowl game, Today show star Al Roker was on site to take part in a special honor, as he got to help paint the large NFL logo on the field.
The logo is visible to all fans in the stadium and watching at home, and Roker got to see how his work turned out as he tuned in from the comfort of wherever he was staying later on. It's unclear if he was at the stadium the day of the game or sometime in the days before.
The morning show anchor shared the memory with fans on social media, including a clip during the painting process and a couple of photos. Roker captioned the update, "It was an honor joining Brian Johnson and his Super Bowl field team to paint the @nfl logo on the @levisstadium field. Looks good!!"
View this post on InstagramFans enjoyed seeing a bit of the behind-the-scenes of what goes on at the Super Bowl, and many cheered Roker on, such as one who said in the comments, "Al you are a man of many talents. I love this addition. Always a light!"
Others called it "cool" and "awesome," with more cheerful responses including, "I have always wanted to do that!!!" and "No one does it better than Al!👍🏻."
Related: Fans Lose It Over Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show Setlist
Roker played a small yet important part in getting Levi's Stadium in California ready for the big game on Feb. 8 between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. Other familiar faces who helped out at the event include Jon Bon Jovi and Chris Pratt, who introduced the Patriots and Seahawks, respectively, at the start of the game.
Of course, there were also plenty of celebrities at the game simply as fans, excited for both the thrilling football game and Bad Bunny's highly anticipated Super Bowl Halftime Show, including Kim Kardashian, Adam Sandler, Ilona Maher, Robert Irwin, and more.
Related: Chart-Topping Superstar Reportedly Turned Down Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Invite
Does Jake Paul Live in Puerto Rico? His Viral Rant Against Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Show Turns Heads
Ahead ofBad Bunny's Super Bowl LX halftime performance,Jake Pauldrew backlash after calling the singer a "fake American citizen," a jab critics called hypocritical since Paul now resides in Puerto Rico. He also urged audiences to boycott the performance, with fans taking to social media to point out a few things.
Does Jake Paul live in Puerto Rico?Yes, Jake Paul currently resides in Dorado, Puerto Rico, according to realtor.com. Details reveal that he owns a 12,000-square-foot mansion estimated to be worth $16-$20 million. The property was reportedly purchased in 2023 and is a 12-acre estate.
Paul's mansion is said to have eight bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a 40-person hot tub, a resort-style pool, and a separate entertainment building. That's not all, as the boxer had openly spoken about moving to Puerto Rico alongside his brother,Logan Paul.
Related: Fans Lose It Over Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show Setlist
In an interview with Graham Bensinger, the two brothers moved in 2021, largely due to their ability to leverage the tax benefits. Logan's recent comment on Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance isn't the first time he's talked with criticism against the native Puerto Rican.
On the Philip DeFranco Show in 2022, Jake called the singer "hypocritical" for condemning the country's tax program when he believes Bad Bunny is also benefiting from it the same way he is.
Jake Paul urged fans to boycott the halftime showOn X, Jake publicly called for many not tune in to Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show, calling him "a fake American." He claimed that the "big corporations" behind the singer's performance should learn about "consequences."
"Purposefully turning off the halftime show Let’s rally together and show big corporations they can’t just do whatever they want without consequences (which equals viewership for them) You are their benefit," he said.
"Realize you have power. Turn off this halftime. A fake American citizen performing who publicly hates America. I cannot support that."
Purposefully turning off the halftime show
Let’s rally together and show big corporations they can’t just do whatever they want without consequences
(which equals viewership for them)
You are their benefit. Realize you have power.
Turn off this halftime. A fake American…
Fans were quick to call out the boxer for his own hypocritical statement, seeing as his place of residence is Puerto Rico. He and his brother are originally from Cleveland, Ohio.
"You own a house in Puerto Rico and fly its flag when it’s convenient. Rather than saying 'fake American', just say what you really mean," said one fan on X.
Paul has been criticized before for representing the Puerto Rican flag at sports events, especially wearing the flag on his boxing shorts for his fight against Anthony Joshua last year.
"Jake Paul calls Bad Bunny a 'fake American' for being born in Puerto Rico. Jake Paul currently lives in Puerto Rico to avoid paying American Taxes. You can't make this up," said one fan.
"Saying all this while living in Puerto Rico AND benefiting off of it, mind you. wearing the PR flag on everything you do as if you are one of us but now we REAL puertoricans are fake americans? fuck you you lame a*s b*tch," said another.
Logan Paul was also asked whether he planned to tune into the halftime show, and when prompted by Fox News, he gave a blunt one-word response: "No."
NFL Reacts to Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show
The NFL quickly showed strong support for Bad Bunny after his headline halftime show at Super Bowl LX, sharing a series of reaction videos and captions celebrating the global superstar’s performance.
Bad Bunny’s halftime show on Sunday, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, blended music, culture and star power. The Puerto Rican artist opened with “Tití Me Preguntó” while wearing an all-white jersey-style outfit with “Ocasio” on the back, a nod to his real name, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio. From the start, the show focused on his culture, his music and his rise as one of the world’s biggest artists.
The Grammy-winning performer walked through a scenic field set filled with dancers before moving into a full set packed with hit songs. He later performed in front of a recreated market set called “La Marqueta,” and even crashed through a roof mid-performance to transition into another stage scene without stopping the show. Fireworks exploded at the end during “DtMF,” closing the performance with high energy.
Bad Bunny performs onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show at Levi's Stadium.Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images
The NFL’s social media reactions reflected how big the moment was. The first video used “Yo Perreo Sola Bad Bunny,” referencing one of his most famous songs.
View this post on InstagramThe second video used “BAD BUNNY! Tití Me Preguntó,” pointing to the song that opened the performance. The final clip used the single word “ICONIC,” showing how the league framed the show as historic.
View this post on InstagramNFL Commissioner Roger Goodell had already backed the artist before the game, calling him “one of the great artists in the world.” That support became even more visible after the performance aired worldwide.
View this post on InstagramThe halftime show also featured major celebrity appearances. Lady Gaga surprised fans by performing a Latin-inspired version of “Die With a Smile” and later dancing with Bad Bunny. Other stars included Cardi B, Ricky Martin, Pedro Pascal, Karol G, Jessica Alba and Alix Earle. Ricky Martin later joined during the second half of the set, helping celebrate Latin culture on one of the biggest stages in sports.
Before the Super Bowl, Bad Bunny shared his mindset going into the performance. “I’m just trying to enjoy it,” he said during a press conference. “I know I’m gonna have fun. All the crew, all the people, they’re going to have fun that day.”
The halftime show came just days after Bad Bunny made history at the Grammys, where his album became the first fully Spanish-language project to win Album of the Year. When first announced as the halftime headliner, he said the moment was bigger than himself. “What I’m feeling goes beyond myself. It’s for those who came before me.”
For many viewers, the performance felt like a celebration. Judging by the NFL’s reactions online, the league clearly saw it as a defining halftime moment.
Bad Bunny Stuns With Outfit for Super Bowl 2026
Bad Bunny just made history after being the first solo Latino artist to perform during the Super BowlHalftime Show tonight at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The Puerto Rican artist performed an electric set of some of his greatest hits across multiple albums, including tracks from the recently Grammy Award-winning DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS (2025) and his iconic project Un Verano Sin Ti (2022).
While the performance stood out for a multitude of reasons (including surprise cameos from Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin), fans were especially excited about Bad Bunny's outfit, since the rapper and producer has always embraced bold and unique fashion choices over the course of his career.
Happy Benito Bowl day to all who celebrate! Tonight, Bad Bunny served as the halftime performer for the 2026 #Superbowl. Given the musician is always one to embrace bold fashion choices, it was no surprise that he leaned into a distinctive outfit tonight, designed by Zara.…
— Vogue Magazine (@voguemagazine) February 9, 2026For his halftime performance, Bad Bunny chose to wear a fairly simple outfit designed by Zara and styled by Storm Pablo and Marvin Douglas Linares, who are responsible for many of his most iconic looks over the years. He wore an entirely cream look from head to toe, which included a collared shirt, tie, short-sleeved sweater that resembled a football jersey, gloves, pants and sneakers.
The number 64 and the name "OCASIO" were also printed on his sweater — a reference to Bad Bunny's real name, which is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio. USA Today speculates that the number 64 could be related to the year that Bad Bunny's mother, Lysaurie Ocasio, was born; however, nothing has been confirmed yet about the number's relevance.
One fan said that after researching "Puerto Rico 1964" in reference to Bad Bunny's sweater, they had come across an article from The New York Times about the growing Puerto Rican migration into the United States. "Love a performance that can educate me," the fan wrote.
Vogue reported that Bad Bunny also wore an 18-karat yellow gold Royal Oak timepiece from Audemars Piguet with a malachite stone dial.
US singer-songwriter Lady Gaga and Puerto Rican singer Bad Bunny perform during Super Bowl LX Patriots vs Seahawks Apple Music Halftime Show at Levi's Stadium.Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP via Getty Images
Bad Bunny also added a blazer to his look mid-performance, briefly wearing it while he danced with Lady Gaga before taking it off again to conclude the show.
Many fan reactions on social media noted that Bad Bunny's halftime look may have been the highlight of his performance.
"Bad Bunny at the super bowl was such vibes bro loved his outfit and he really put on a good show," wrote one X user.
"i was worried bad bunny was gonna to spill his red shaved ice on his nice outfit while dancing," joked another user.
Bad Bunny just made Super Bowl history wearing Zara
His head-to-toe cream look was designed by Zara and styled by Storm Pablo and Marvin Douglas Linares pic.twitter.com/RprOqtBjhB
Another excited fan wrote, "Bad Bunny's mic was ON, his face was beat, his outfit was scrumptious, the staging was gorgeous, the dancers were everything, the setlist was excellent and the guests OMG!!!!!!"
"Bad Bunny served body, face, outfit, music, stage design, politics, Latin America and finished it off with geography. Te quiero mucho."
The legendary Puerto Rican artist has certainly made history in many ways tonight, and his halftime show outfit proves that Bad Bunny plans on continuing his legacy of being one of the most fashion-forward musicians to date.