Timeless Tuesday: Episode 011
Hey family — it’s time for your weekly dose of Timeless Tuesday classics. This week, we’re diving into records that deserve nothing but our highest praise. From Nirvana to Outkast, Al Green (again!), Olivia Newton-John, and many more, we’ve got timeless gems to elevate your week. Welcome back. This is Timeless Tuesday: Episode 011.
Cheyenne’s Selections:
“Come As You Are” – Nirvana (1992)
This episode, we’ve got a strong start with “Come As You Are” by Nirvana. There’s something undeniably satisfying about starting your day with a hot cup of coffee and Kurt Cobain’s voice blaring through the speakers. It’s grunge, it’s raw, and it’s the perfect track to fuel your week. Throw on “Come As You Are,” press play and watch your mood instantly transform.
“Ms. Jackson” – Outkast (2000)
Next, Cheyenne selects “Ms. Jackson” by Outkast, an iconic and unforgettable classic. Outkast is the hip-hop duo consisting of Big Boi and Andre 3000, together, they were the pioneers and icons within the hip-hop industry. “Ms. Jackson” is but one of their many legendary records, that showcases their signature Southern funky swag. Outkast was a group that was never scared to push creative boundaries and try something different, and as a result, they’ve secured a permanent place in music history.
“Sugar, Sugar” – The Archies (1969)
Lastly, we’re in love with Cheyenne’s last selection… have you ever read the Archie comics? If yes, then you may recognize “Sugar, Sugar”, written by Jeff Barry and Andy Kim. “Sugar, Sugar” was performed by the fictional bubblegum pop band, The Archies. While initially written for the Archie comic series, this record is a timeless classic that continues to score popular media, film, commercials, video games and etcetera. Also, if you’ve seen Riverdale, which is heavily inspired by the Archie comics, they love this song too. It’s the perfect feel-good jam.
Laneisha’s Selections:
“Outstanding” – The Gap Band (1982)
While we’re on the feel-good wave, my first selection this week is The Gap Band’s “Outstanding.” As titled, this track does make you feel outstanding while listening to it, because the groove is and the production is undeniably smooth. “Outstanding” is one of the group’s best-selling records that also appeared on their platinum selling album, The Gap Band IV. This record is here purely for its magnetic groove, timeless message, and legendary vocals from The Gap Band. This track never gets old.
“Roses” – Outkast (2004)
Second of my selections is Outkast’s “Roses.” Originally, “Ms. Jackson” was one of my selections for this week, however, it’s clear the Mic Drop team is on the same wave. So come on, come join us.
With that being said, we must share another Outkast favorite since they’ve been in our rotation lately. Outkast is known for their legendary storytelling and lyricism, layered on top of the funkiest high-energy music production of their time. “Roses” is a track that showcases this craft. The group creates soundscapes that deliver deep lyrics and spark introspection in listeners, while keeping the dance floor jumping. That’s the genius of Outkast — this is truly an art.
“If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” – Nas, Lauryn Hill (1996)
Finally, my list closes with the powerful collaboration of “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” between American rap legend Nas and legendary R&B icon Lauryn Hill (again!). While this single was Ms. Lauryn Hill’s first musical appearance without the Fugees and only Nas’ second studio album, it signified a huge turning point in both of their music careers. Leave it to Nas to spray some lyrical wisdom on you, but now we have Lauryn Hill harmonizing in the back and on the legendary chorus. Not only are the chorus and hook powerful, but the ad libs from both artists sprinkled throughout the record are just as impactful. “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)” is not only a song — it’s a vision.
Nathan’s Selections:
“Physical” – Olivia Newton-John (1981)
First on his list, Nathan brings a gem onto the playlist with Olivia Newton-John’s, “Physical.” “Physical” was an immediate hit and certified platinum, bringing her eleventh studio album of the same name, legendary success. This was the peak of Newton-John’s career, as this album helped define the early ‘80s pop scene.
Interestingly enough, while she was under the management of Roger Davies, so was fellow colleague Tina Turner. One day, Davies presented the song to both artists, Turner denied, and Newton-John had a platinum record in the works. “Physical” is a timeless classic that is hot, sexy and aggressive in all the right ways.
“Ain’t No Way” – Aretha Franklin (1968)
Next up, Nathan winds things down with a classic soul jam from the queen, Aretha Franklin, “Ain’t No Way.” Lyrically, “the song is vulnerable, emotional and a little bittersweet.
Franklin’s younger sister, Carolyn Franklin, is the genius behind the touching lyrics in this record. However it has been speculated for many years if the lyrics were actually in reference to a man, because it was often performed that way. Although many performances framed it as a love song to a man, the lyrics leave space for deeper interpretations — including the possibility that the song speaks to a woman. But, as it turns out, that is the beauty of good music: it’s relatable, it translates (regardless of background), and it touches the deepest emotions of many. The ambiguity only enhances the song’s power.
At the end of the day, I think one can identify the true message when “reading between the lines,” but that is up for your interpretation.
Ain’t No Way” Lyrics, written by Carolyn Franklin performed by Aretha Franklin (click here).
“How Can You Mend A Broken Heart” – Al Green (1972)
Finally, Al Green makes another all-star appearance on our Timeless Tuesday Playlist, this time with a cover of the Bee Gees’ “How Can You Mend A Broken Heart.” Now, this is the display of a cover providing a vastly different variation of the original record, yet still preserving the integrity and essence of the record. While the Bee Gees’ original version carries its own emotional weight, Al Green transforms it into something altogether different — more intimate, more aching, more him. His voice and production reframe the question at the song’s core, making it a personal plea rather than a universal lament. We appreciate both versions because without one, the other would not exist, however, Al Green’s interpretation is the one that’s going on this playlist. Forever.
Next Week
That wraps up Timeless Tuesday: Episode 011. As always, we’re here to celebrate the records that have shaped our music tastes, moved us, and withstood the test of time. Whether you’re discovering these songs for the first time, or reconnecting with old favorites with us. We hope you’ve enjoyed it. See you next week for more timeless vibes.
