.jpg)
New music is great, but have you listened to old music?
Old music is naturally relative. It often carries emotional baggage, attachments, biases, and context. It can serve as a reliable escape, a space where the emotions evoked are familiar, providing a sense of assurance. Additionally, old music can encapsulate significant moments in one’s life.
While new music certainly has its appeal, have you truly experienced old music? As a passionate fan of The Beatles, my very first CD was ‘Abbey Road.’ I was raised in the tradition of Lennon and McCartney, where sampling or covering their work felt like a sacrilege—a rule that seemed to be understood but never spoken. I was also well-acquainted with their solo careers, particularly with albums like ‘Band On The Run’ and ‘Imagine.’
It wasn’t until I grew older and started exploring soul music that I realized those rules didn’t hold the same weight for certain artists and circumstances. One such artist was Donny Hathaway. Lennon’s ‘Jealous Guy’ came out in 1971, and Hathaway covered it the following year. I advocate for reviving the practice of covering songs just a year old.
Hathaway’s rendition instantly resonated with me. While Lennon’s version is orderly and dreamy, Hathaway’s interpretation is vibrant and brimming with heartache. The first time I heard the applause at the end, realizing it was a live performance, left me in awe. How could a band synchronize so perfectly? How could emotions be expressed so authentically?
In a world increasingly leaning towards automated prompts and artificially manufactured feelings, this serves as a powerful reminder that others can reflect bits of ourselves in works of art. Oh, to have been present in that room, that club! Thankfully, we have this recording—if you close your eyes tightly enough, you can almost transport yourself there. I highly recommend exploring the entire live album by Donny; it’s a genuine pleasure.
Another noteworthy mention of a fantastic cover of a Beatles song is Stevie Wonder’s rendition of ‘We Can Work It Out.’
Follow Mr. Cutts on Patreon HERE to catch his weekly radio show and the latest Old Music Friday content.
Words: Owen Cutts
Join us on WeAre8 as we delve into global cultural happenings. Follow Clash Magazine HERE as we joyfully navigate between clubs, concerts, interviews, and photo shoots. Get backstage glimpses and insights into our world as the fun unfolds.
Sign up for the Clash mailing list to stay updated on the latest music, fashion, and film news.
Ben Hazlewood is making his way into the spotlight with his latest release, ‘Another Day In Paradise.’ He puts his unique twist on Phil Collins’ timeless classic.
Manga Saint Hilare has released his new EP 'OUTERNATIONAL' in its entirety. The rapper is a significant figure in the grime scene, having played a vital role in defining the genre.
After a long hiatus of several decades, Strange Boutique is celebrating their comeback with their new album, ‘Let The Lonely Heart Sing’. This album features a heartfelt selection of songs.
Central Cee is back with a new track titled 'Booga'. This year has been remarkable for the West London rapper, who recently released his debut album 'Can't Rush'.
Experimental musician and creator Kabeaushé has released ‘WE HAVE OURSELVES A SHEKDOWN’, the second single from his upcoming album, ‘KABEAUSHÉ PRESENTS:
North London singer-songwriter ELIZA has today released her first single in two years, titled 'Anyone Else.’ This track is described as ELIZA's genuine love song.
Old music is understandably subjective. It may carry emotional weight, personal attachments, biases, and context. It can serve as a comfort zone, a haven where the