OK, you really don't have to love Lady Gaga. It's optional, like everything else in pop culture. In fact, there's probably a 50-50 split, at best, on those who love her and those who rue the day she ever appeared on the cultural landscape. (Today)

Instant intimacy can be a problem for performers paired not by Cupid but casting. For others who are couples in real life, the challenge might be acting as if they are strangers. (Today)

Preview: How does an indie rocker gain entry to the world of old-time roots music? The answer for guitarist Austin Vanasdale was simple -- start a band with a banjo player. (Today)

Imagine a poll in the mid-'00s on the Band Most Likely to Succeed with, say Modest Mouse, My Morning Jacket, Bright Eyes and Kings of Leon. (Today)

'The Middle: Season One' two and a half stars There's no question this ABC comedy, back with new episodes late next month, is an entertaining diversion, thanks largely to the portrayal of its kid characters, but as a DVD release, ABC's "The Middle" ($44.98, Warner Home Video) is middling when it comes to bonus features. (Today)