The meaning of timelessness is something that is so good that it cannot be affected by time. Music is a form of artistic expression that has many timeless pieces and we want to highlight which songs are worth the title. Most of these songs have tested the tides of time but you might find some recent songs that are worthy of the title too.
Take On Me – a-ha (1985)
This might be a meme-worthy song now but when you concentrate on the lyrics, ‘Take On Me’ is an emotional masterpiece. The acoustic version is worth every second and elevates the meaning of the song. It’s perfect to serenade a romantic partner.
Stand By Me – Ben E. King (1961)
I’m sure even the words, ‘Stand By Me’, will make you start singing the song. Popularised by the movie of the same name, Ben E. King is respected by many musicians as there are over 400 recorded covers of the song.
Feel Good Inc – Gorillaz (2005)
With one of the most catchy basslines, ‘Feel Good Inc’ does what it sounds like–makes you feel good. Its groovy and relaxed beat has made it very popular and easy to cover for casual musicians.
I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) – The Proclaimers (1988)
While the song can be repetitive for some people, ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ is a favourite song of sitcoms and alike that love being cheesy. It’s a feel-good song that isn’t complicated.
Wonderwall – Oasis (1995)
It’s almost a rite of passage to be serenaded with ‘Wonderwall’ by a person whose hobby is the guitar. The easy chords make it almost every aspiring guitarist’s first song but Oasis are legends of Brit-pop. ‘Wonderwall’ is unforgettable in the long run.
Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen (1975)
The six-minute song is a legend amongst legends. ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ has so many parts, that it’s hard to keep track of but still a karaoke favourite. It’s titled as one of the greatest songs of all time and the band’s signature song.
With Or Without You – U2 (1987)
‘With Or Without You’ by U2 is one of their most popular songs as well as the most-covered. It’s intensely romantic and emotional. You might remember it played on the TV series, Friend’s Season 2, Episode 7.
Respect – Aretha Franklin (1967)
While ‘Respect’ was originally written by Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin arranged it and made it her signature song. The two songs are significantly different with Franklin’s becoming a symbol of feminism.
Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper (1984)
This classic ballad will make your heart soar with its tender lyrics. ‘Time After Time’ is a promise to a lover that you will always be there for them.
Boulevard of Broken Dreams – Green Day (2004)
The sombre and bleak lyrics were the anthem of every emo kid out there. ‘Boulevard of Broken Dreams’ is an unforgettable song when you’re feeling particularly lonely.
Spring Day – BTS (2017)
At the start of BTS’ journey to becoming the leading Korean act in the global market, ‘Spring Day’ was an unforgettable song about missing someone, grief and yearning. It covers mental health in a gentle melody.
The Scientist – Coldplay (2002)
‘The Scientist’ is a sorrowful piano ballad about the tragedy of love and breakups. The experimental music video is the highlight of the song as well, with the video in backwards but the speech in forward motion.
Chaiyya Chaiyya – A. R. Rahman (1998)
Featured in the Bollywood film Dil Se…, ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’ is a classic and influential song of Hindi films. The song also gained a cult following internationally.
All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey (1994)
Known for her effortless high notes, ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’ by Mariah Carey is an essential Christmas song. It’s arguably the only Christmas song you will ever need. Not a day of December goes by without hearing her voice at least 5 times.
Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin (1971)
‘Stairway to Heaven’ battles for the title of the greatest rock song of all time. The experimental melody, with three sections of different volumes and tempos, makes the song an experience in itself.
Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin – Kishore Kumar and Manna Dey (1975)
‘Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin’ is the friendship anthem. Performed in the renowned film, Sholay, ‘Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin’ is one of the most fun songs that has you bursting into song.
Feeling Good – Nina Simone (1964)
Nina Simone is a civil rights activist and singer. Her strong voice is highlighted in ‘Feeling Good’, it’s been trending heavily on Reels so you must have heard it. The song happens to be another with multiple covers, a sign of unending respect.
Take Me to Church – Hozier (2013)
‘Take Me to Church’ is filled with religious terminology that describes a romantic relationship being discriminated against by the church. The soulful performance given by Hozier is impactful and one of the best songs of the 2010s.
