Fine Wine: The Timelessness of Music

There’s a particular allure in encountering something that feels timeless, especially in music.  It's the way certain songs, albums, or sounds transcend their time, resonating with listeners across generations. It’s a kind of resonance, a sense that a piece of art will never lose its relevance. It’s as though it exists outside the fleeting cycles of trends, unaffected by the rush of time. Timelessness, in many ways, represents art at its highest form–capturing the essence of its moment while speaking to something universal.

Some of my favourite pieces of music were released before I was even born, yet remain as powerful and moving to me as anything created today. Janet Jackson’s The Velvet Rope, my favourite album of all time, is a perfect example of music that has aged like fine wine. Released in 1997, it feels as vital now as it would have been when it first dropped. The themes of self-discovery, vulnerability, pain, loss, love, sexuality are as relevant today as they were nearly thirty years ago. Janet unpacks the pain of domestic abuse in “What About,” dives into the alienation of online dating on “Empty,” and reflects on the ways we sabotage ourselves in “You.” These raw, universal topics still resonate deeply in the modern era. Paired with lush, innovative production and a broad sonic range, The Velvet Rope transcends its era, making it a masterpiece that still feels fresh.

But The Velvet Rope’s longevity isn’t merely a byproduct of nostalgia. Timeless works often transcend their immediate cultural context, not defined by fleeting aesthetics or trends. Nina Simone famously said, “An artist's duty, as far as I'm concerned, is to reflect the times,” and while I agree to an extent, I believe that artists must also strive to transcend those times in order to create something enduring. They should capture universal truths–emotions, experiences–that persist beyond any one moment in history.

Albums like The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill and Purple Rain also exude this quality of timelessness. Though rooted in the eras from which they were created, their messages and artistry speak to a broader human experience. These records are more than just reflections of their time; they connect with listeners on an emotional level that isn’t bound to a particular decade, unlike many one-hit-wonders of the 80s and 90s. Their success isn’t reliant on trends or the aesthetics of the moment, but on deep innovation, emotional resonance, and cultural significance. 

In a world that constantly demands “the next thing,” creating lasting art feels like an act of rebellion. It requires resisting the urge to chase the popular or the profitable and instead staying true to an artistic vision. It’s about crafting something that holds value not just in the moment but across generations. But this is no simple task. Today’s music industry is driven by quick returns and fleeting trends, where success is often measured by algorithms, viral moments, and chart performance. Artists face immense pressure to conform to market demands, where creating songs for TikTok trends can overshadow the pursuit of meaningful innovation.

This struggle highlights why timelessness matters more than ever. Art’s true power lies in its ability to resist these confines. Timelessness is born when artists prioritize meaning and authenticity over momentary popularity. Doechii exemplifies this balance beautifully. Her mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal, is a testament to the rewards of staying true to an artistic vision. Tracks like “Denial is a River” explore deeply personal experiences, such as her struggles with drug use and betrayal in relationships. Sonically, her music blends sharp lyricism with production that feels simultaneously fresh and rooted in hip-hop’s origins. By merging personal truth with innovative artistry, Doechii’s work resonates universally. I’m so happy she’s finally getting her flowers, proving that integrity and commercial success can coexist. 

Timeless music isn’t simply about longevity. It’s about its power to make us feel something profound and lasting, regardless of when or where we encounter it. It connects us through its authenticity–its ability to reflect real experiences that resonate across time and space. This kind of art doesn’t need to chase popularity; it simply exists, inviting connection on a fundamentally human level. And in doing so, it becomes more than just art–it becomes a legacy.