Old Music Wednesday: 5/21/25

What This Is

Spotify and other services offer AI-curated playlists and recommendations, pushing new music into listeners’ ears every week. The goal of Old Music Wednesday is to counter that by digging into “old music” with 5 songs released anywhere from 1-100 years ago and giving a brief annotation for each one, explaining why I think it’s special and providing context.

“Spring Into Summer” by Lizzy McAlpine,

Older (and Wiser), 2024

The changing of seasons naturally encourages reflection on what’s past and what’s to come. The poetry of McAlpine’s lyrics is so honest to the experience of navigating young romance and the lessons and regret we gain from them.

“Waterfall” by Electric Light Orchestra,

Face the Music, 1975

An earnest homage to the melodramatic ballads of the 50’s mixed with the tech and disco rhythms of the 70’s, this is a classic ELO track. The strings tug at your heart and the lyrics speak to the all-consuming waters of love that you can’t help but give in to.

“Reprogram Ourselves” by Jerry Paper,

Fuzzy Logic, 2013

Can we reprogram ourselves for love, loving, and living? This is the question the ever-original Jerry Paper poses to the listener and themselves. A fuzzy, dreamlike synth backdrop and an honest vulnerability in the lyrics make it feel possible.

“Youforia - Live” by Mac Miller,

Live from Space, 2013

A prolific artist taken too soon, Mac Miller spoke to deep human struggles and joys. Hearing him sing, live and vulnerable, about the ecstasy of being with someone you love and experiencing their presence feels like such a gift.

“Passenger Side” by Wilco,

A.M., 1995

Alcoholism and addiction are themes throughout Wilco’s prolific catalog of music. Jeff Tweedy’s personal struggles with them take center stage in this song, exploring the deep shame that comes with the consequences of drunk driving and having to turn to others to get around.