The Return of a Legend: Carly Simon’s ‘Comes in Waves’ and the Timelessness of Artistic Expression
What does it mean for an artist to return after nearly two decades of silence? Personally, I think it’s a testament to the enduring power of creativity. Carly Simon, the iconic voice of the ’70s, is releasing her first album of original material since 2008, and it’s not just a comeback—it’s a statement. At 82, Simon isn’t just revisiting her past; she’s redefining what it means to be an artist in an age that often forgets its legends.
Why This Matters Beyond the Music
One thing that immediately stands out is the sheer audacity of this release. In an industry obsessed with youth and novelty, Simon’s return challenges the narrative that artists have an expiration date. What many people don’t realize is that her absence wasn’t just a hiatus—it was a period of reflection, loss, and transformation. The album, Comes in Waves, was crafted in her Martha’s Vineyard home, a place she’s called home for decades. This isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a deeply personal narrative, woven with the threads of her life.
The Emotional Core of ‘Howl’
The lead single, Howl, is a masterclass in vulnerability. Simon describes it as a song about betrayal and forgiveness, a theme that resonates far beyond her own experiences. What makes this particularly fascinating is how she navigates anger without letting it consume her. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a universal struggle—how do we voice our pain without letting it define us? Simon’s ability to capture this tension is what has always set her apart.
A Collaborative Labor of Love
What this album really suggests is the importance of community in art. Simon worked closely with family, friends, and longtime collaborators, including her son Ben Taylor and the late John Forté. Even the legendary producer Paul Samwell-Smith, who worked with her on Anticipation in 1971, returned to rework Share the End. This isn’t just a solo project; it’s a testament to the relationships that sustain creativity. From my perspective, this collaborative approach adds a layer of authenticity that’s rare in today’s music industry.
The Broader Cultural Context
This raises a deeper question: Why do we still care about artists from the ’70s? Simon’s catalog, including hits like You’re So Vain and Nobody Does It Better, isn’t just nostalgia—it’s a cultural touchstone. Her music captured the complexities of love, ambition, and identity in a way that still feels relevant. In an era of streaming and disposable hits, her return is a reminder of what it means to create art that endures.
The Future of Simon’s Legacy
A detail that I find especially interesting is the uncertainty around whether Simon will tour to support the album. At 82, her priorities might have shifted, but her impact hasn’t. Whether she performs live or not, Comes in Waves is already a landmark moment. It’s a reminder that art isn’t about age or relevance—it’s about the courage to express what’s true.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on Simon’s return, I’m struck by the timelessness of her voice. This isn’t just an album; it’s a conversation across generations. In a world that often dismisses the wisdom of age, Simon’s Comes in Waves is a powerful rebuttal. Personally, I think this is more than a musical event—it’s a cultural one. It invites us to reconsider how we value artists, how we process emotion, and how we define legacy.
So, as we await August 14th, let’s not just listen to the music. Let’s hear the story behind it. Because, in the end, that’s what Carly Simon has always done best—she doesn’t just sing; she tells us something about ourselves.
