The Return of a Legend: Carly Simon’s ‘Comes in Waves’ and the Power of Artistic Resilience
When I first heard that Carly Simon was releasing her first album of original material in nearly two decades, my initial reaction was one of sheer excitement. But as I delved deeper into the details of Comes in Waves, I realized this wasn’t just a comeback—it’s a testament to the enduring power of artistry, even in the face of time, loss, and personal struggle. At 82, Simon isn’t just revisiting her legacy; she’s redefining what it means to create at an age when many artists have long since retired.
A Voice That Transcends Time
Carly Simon’s voice has always been a force of nature—raw, emotive, and unapologetically honest. Her 1970s hits like You’re So Vain and Nobody Does It Better weren’t just songs; they were cultural touchstones that captured the complexities of love, ambition, and vulnerability. What makes this new album particularly fascinating is how Simon seems to be channeling that same energy, but with a depth that only decades of lived experience can bring.
Personally, I think what’s most striking about Comes in Waves is its thematic focus on forgiveness and release. The lead single, Howl, is a masterclass in emotional catharsis. Simon describes it as a song that moves from anger to forgiveness, a journey many of us can relate to. What this really suggests is that even after a lifetime of songwriting, Simon is still exploring the most universal—and yet most elusive—aspects of the human condition.
A Collaborative Labor of Love
One thing that immediately stands out is the collaborative nature of this album. Recorded primarily at Simon’s Martha’s Vineyard home, Comes in Waves is a family affair, featuring contributions from her children, Ben and Sally Taylor, and longtime collaborators like Frank Filipetti. What many people don’t realize is how rare it is for an artist of Simon’s stature to involve their family so intimately in their work. It’s not just about making music; it’s about creating a legacy that’s deeply personal.
The inclusion of the late John Forté, a Grammy-nominated musician who passed away earlier this year, adds another layer of poignancy. From my perspective, this album feels like a tribute not just to Simon’s career, but to the people who have shaped her journey. It’s a reminder that art is never created in a vacuum—it’s a product of relationships, loss, and shared experiences.
Revisiting the Past, Looking to the Future
A detail that I find especially interesting is Simon’s decision to rework Share the End, a track from her 1971 album Anticipation. Produced once again by Paul Samwell-Smith, the song serves as a bridge between her past and present. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just a nostalgic gesture; it’s a statement about the cyclical nature of creativity. Artists don’t just move forward—they revisit, reinterpret, and reinvent.
This raises a deeper question: What does it mean for a legend to return to the studio after such a long hiatus? In an era dominated by streaming and fleeting trends, Simon’s comeback feels like a rebellion against the disposable nature of modern music. She’s not chasing viral hits or TikTok trends; she’s making music that demands to be listened to, felt, and understood.
The Broader Implications of Simon’s Return
From a broader perspective, Simon’s return is a cultural moment. It challenges the notion that creativity has an expiration date. In a society that often marginalizes older artists, Simon’s resilience is a powerful statement. Personally, I think her comeback is a call to action for the industry to reevaluate how it values artists at different stages of their careers.
What this really suggests is that age is not a limitation, but a source of wisdom. Simon’s music has always been about authenticity, and Comes in Waves is no exception. In a world where authenticity is often manufactured, her voice remains a rare and precious commodity.
Final Thoughts: Why This Album Matters
As I reflect on Comes in Waves, I’m struck by its timeliness. In an age of division and uncertainty, Simon’s focus on forgiveness and release feels like a much-needed balm. This album isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a reminder of the healing power of art.
In my opinion, Carly Simon’s return is more than a musical event—it’s a cultural phenomenon. It’s a testament to the idea that great artists never truly retire; they simply evolve. And as we eagerly await Comes in Waves, one thing is clear: Carly Simon’s voice, like the waves she sings about, is a force that continues to shape the shores of our collective consciousness.
