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Songs That Time Forgot: Hidden Gems Ahead of Their Time

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The term 'ahead of its time' is often reserved for genres or breakthroughs that change the course of music. However, there are also songs from eras long past that possess qualities that far surpass their contemporaries. This article explores a handful of such songs, shedding light on their unique attributes and their remarkable impact.

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A Hidden Gem from the 1960s

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The Animals' House of the Rising Sun: A Timeless Instrumental
" "When The Animals covered 'House of the Rising Sun' in 1964, it quickly became a hit, earning worldwide recognition. Yet, what sets this version apart is not just the vocal performance but the groundbreaking instrumental arrangements. The hammond organ solo, in particular, stands out as an early example of its kind. The song, originally recorded in the pre-1965 era, introduces a complexity and creativity that was not common in contemporary music of the time. The use of the organ as a lead instrument, a technique more widely popularized by Jon Lord in 1967, makes this song the precursor to a trend that would greatly influence the music of subsequent decades. When compared to The Beatles' revolutionary Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, House of the Rising Sun still manages to shine. Its intricate and innovative organ part makes it a testament to the artistry of its time.

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From Ancient Times: Songs Older Than Civilizations

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The song with the most ancient pedigree is the Hurrian Hymn No. 6, discovered on a clay tablet dating back to around 1400 B.C. This remarkable find predates the birth of Christ by nearly 3,300 years. It is thought that the song could survive as long as human civilization itself, though that remains to be seen. The preservation of this music on a clay tablet in the 1950s serves as a testament to the enduring value of this ancient composition. For a more accessible rendition, you can find a performance of Hurrian Hymn No. 6 on YouTube.

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The Seikilos Epitaph: The Oldest Known Song with Words and Music

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While the Hurrian Hymn No. 6 is the oldest form of music to survive, the Seikilos Epitaph is the oldest complete song with words and music that has survived in its entirety. This ancient Greek ode, dating back to the 1st century A.D., has been reproduced and even modernized in various interpretations. One such performance by Corvus Corax is available on YouTube, where they include percussion and multiple instrument repetitions, adding layers to the original melody and verse.

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Modern Classics That Stand the Test of Time

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While some of the songs discussed above show us what music was capable of centuries ago, there are also contemporary songs that, despite their age, sound remarkably fresh today. Elvis Presley's 'Heartbreak Hotel,' released in 1956, continues to captivate audiences with its melody and message, even after six decades. For those from the late 1970s, Tubeway Army and Gary Numan's 'Tubeway ArmyEPS4 (Friends, Electric)' is a classic that remains modern in both sound and spirit. Similarly, artists like David Bowie, Prince, The Doors, and Talking Heads have songs that continue to resonate with listeners due to their timeless quality and innovative approach.

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These songs remind us that the essence of good music transcends time. Whether through ancient hymns, 60-year-old classics, or contemporary hits, the marks of a song that stands the test of time are always present. The examples discussed here are just a small sample of the vast musical universe, proving that true creativity knows no bounds and its impact endures through the ages.