Taking a tip from Bumbershoot’s Words & Ideas program, for this year’s 44th annual end-of-summer bash we ask, Why Bumbershoot? Why Crushes? Why Now? Well, the answer is simple. From ISIS to Ferguson, it’s been a miserable month for news, and what we all need right now is a round of heartwarming vibes and a soundtrack to go with it. No better time to turn to our enduring love of bands and artists, from the Replacements to Wu-Tang, to remember what life’s all about.

Speaking of those Staten Island rappers, when it comes to creativity, Wu-Tang’s brand of magical realism beats out the tired headlines any day. Bummed about rampant social injustice? Read how the ladies of Luscious Jackson are continuing the hard work of gone-too-soon rapper Adam “MCA” Yauch. Ready to indulge in some old-fashioned rock nostalgia? You’re in good company with the Seattle bands who remember the Replacements fondly. And don’t miss all the warm fuzzies we have for indie music’s unlikely sweetheart, Mac DeMarco.

Whenever the news gets you down, take heart in the lyrics of your favorite singer or band and remember the creative spirit of artists who work to build things up. These are the people and ideas that love you back—and they’re the ones we’ll be crushing out on this weekend.

MusicMac DemarcoWhy is the whole world smitten? Staffers explain their crush on this rising indie star.

Luscious Jackson’90s alt-rocking goddesses Luscious Jackson have reunited at the height of the nostalgia craze. We are stoked!

The ReplacementsDespite a less-than-mainstream path to success, the Replacements have quite a legacy. We let you in on how such an underdog band made good.

Wu-Tang ClanFrom Method Man to RZA, we’re dying to see what Wu-Tang has in store for us this year at Bumbershoot.

SW Staff must-see picksWeekly staff poured over this year’s lineup, and we’ve got a list of recommended picks to make your labor day weekend absolutely sing.

FilmWe’ve got your best bets for everything film at Bumbershoot 2014.

Visual ArtsThe visual arts offerings this year look quite tasty, see what we think you should drop in on at Bumbershoot this year.

Bumbershoot takes place Aug. 30–Sept. 1 at Seattle Center. $62 for single day pass, $175 for 3-day pass. Pick up Seattle Weekly’s print edition for a full schedule and map. Or go to bumbershoot.org for more information. And be sure to check out all our suggestions for music, film, and visual arts.

gelliott@seattleweekly.com