If you really think about it all, music is like a time machine. Just a few notes from an old favourite can transport you to another era, back to the swing of the 50s, the grooves of the 70s, or the unforgettable beats of the 90s. Maybe it just transports you to when you were a kid, and there was a big event happening (like a school dance) and that song came on, or it was your first concert, your first ever live show where you got to see the magic in front of you.
Yet somehow, older music often gets sidelined, especially by younger listeners chasing the latest chart hits. But here’s the thing: diving into older music isn’t just about nostalgia or living in the past, if you think about it, it’s an adventure that can enrich your playlists and your perspective. Seriously, new music gives a nod to the oldies, and people should be giving that recognition too.
Today’s Music Is Built on Yesterday’s
Just think of music like a family tree. Every beat, riff, and hook has its roots in what came before. The shiny, fresh tracks you hear today? Most of them borrow from or are directly inspired by, older hits. A lot of people don’t even recognise that either! One of the biggest classics of the 90s; is The Notorious B.I.G.’s Hypnotize, even something that’s aged like fine like that even sampled older music too.
That iconic bassline? Well, it’s lifted straight from Herb Alpert’s Rise. Why does this even matter? Well, knowing where a song comes from gives it depth, and suddenly, you’re not just hearing it; you’re feeling its history.
Give Credit Where It’s Due
How many times have you heard someone say, “Oh, that cover is so much better than the original”? Ouch. Often, older tracks don’t get the respect they deserve when a newer artist covers them. Or worse, the original gets labelled as a knockoff, even though it came first.
Seriosuly, everyone should agree that the OG artists are the trailblazers. They created something new and exciting in their time, and they deserve their flowers. Do you remember when people rediscovered Fleetwood Mac’s Dreams because it went viral on TikTok a couple of years back? Suddenly, everyone remembered how incredible the original was, and that’s the kind of appreciation all older music deserves.
It’s History
Every song has a story, and older music is a goldmine of cultural history. They basically captured the spirit of their times in a way that still resonates. Now, even big businessmen knew that the record labels understood what needed to be captured for the time.
For example, Clive Davis, is the one who signed on some of the most iconic artists like Janis Joplin (basically the Queen of 70s rock) and Whitney Houston (The Queen of Pop). They were singers of their generation, and to this day, they’re known for that, they have a legacy of just that!
Timeless Tracks That Still Slap
There’s a reason older music sticks around: it’s just that good. Just think about it, a lot of the lyrics hit home, the melodies get stuck in your head, and the vibes are unmatched. Sure, trends have changed, but great music doesn’t age, actually, it transcends. This song, whatever it is, it’s connecting people from various generations, there’s some unity there.