You've probably heard the phrase, "It's not what you say, it's how you say it," and now, science backs it up. A first-of-its-kind study from Northwestern University's School of Communication, the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Wisconsin-Madison reveals a region of the brain, long known for early auditory processing, plays a far greater role in interpreting speech than previously understood.

One team was desperate to end an embarrassing saga. Another was desperate to appease its stars. Another was desperate to extend its flailing dynasty. Here's how it all went down.