The latest Strands puzzle, #667, features an exciting theme that highlights the biggest music hits of 2025. Players are challenged to uncover chart-topping songs concealed within a 6×8 grid of letters. With popular hits like Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra” and Justin Bieber’s “Daisies” making waves this year, today’s puzzle has a nostalgic vibe that could resonate with many music fans.
In this edition, players will dive into the world of 2025’s chart-toppers across all genres. The spangram “HITSONGS” connects both ends of the grid, serving as a clue to unlocking the theme. Within the grid lie five carefully chosen theme words associated with the most-streamed and award-nominated tracks of the year, requiring players to use all letters exactly once to complete the challenge.
Strands has cultivated a reputation as one of the New York Times’ most engaging daily word puzzles since its inception in 2024. The rules are straightforward: players search for hidden words tied to a specific theme, and today’s focus on “2025 Top Twenty” offers a delightful exploration of the year’s musical landscape. The puzzle is designed to challenge players with varying levels of difficulty, as identifying the key theme words and the underlying spangram requires both strategy and vocabulary knowledge.
Among the featured songs, Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra” stands out as a Grammy-nominated track, further validating its cultural impact. Justin Bieber’s “Daisies” maintained a strong presence on streaming playlists, while K-Pop’s “Golden,” from the Demon Hunters soundtrack, showcases the genre’s significant influence in 2025.
Today’s puzzle presents moderate difficulty, especially for those familiar with contemporary hits. Starting with recognizable tracks like “DAISIES” and “ABRACADABRA” can provide an initial boost before tackling the more elusive connections. Players are encouraged to reference recent music awards shows, Spotify year-end statistics, and Billboard charts, as these resources can assist in navigating the word grid more effectively.
The choice of the “2025 Top Twenty” theme celebrates significant cultural moments, as highlighted in recent Grammy nominations and streaming data. Tracks like Alex Warren’s “Ordinary,” recognized as the UK’s biggest song, reflect the diverse artistry shaping global music tastes this year. Incorporating these titles within the Strands puzzle not only reinforces their popularity but serves to acknowledge the achievements and trends in music that listeners have enjoyed throughout 2025.
Ultimately, today’s Strands puzzle offers an engaging and rewarding experience for players, turning the pursuit of hidden words into a celebration of music that has defined the year. The nostalgic aspect of recognizing beloved tracks adds an enjoyable layer to the challenge, making it worthwhile for both avid puzzlers and music enthusiasts alike.