What's Happening?
Carly Simon has released 'Comes in Waves,' her first album of original material in 18 years, since her 2008 album 'This Kind of Love.' The album, largely written and recorded at her home on Martha's Vineyard, features 12 new songs, showcasing her distinctive
vocals. Simon, an Oscar and Grammy-winning artist known for hits like 'Nobody Does It Better' and 'You're So Vain,' has been a significant influence on female singers for decades. The release comes after Simon publicly announced her diagnosis with Parkinson's disease and treatment for skin cancer in July. She stated that working on the music provided a 'salve' during her health challenges, giving 'shape to days that did not always have much shape' and reminding her that 'illness can change your life without becoming the whole of your life.' Due to her illness, Simon did not conduct interviews for the project but provided Billboard with exclusive written insights into 11 of the album's songs, detailing the intimate stories behind their creation. She wrote five songs independently and collaborated with others, including her son Ben Taylor, who also co-produced the album.
Why It's Important?
The release of 'Comes in Waves' is a significant event for the music industry and Carly Simon's fans, marking her return to original songwriting after nearly two decades. Her continued artistic output, despite recent health diagnoses of Parkinson's disease and skin cancer, highlights her resilience and dedication to her craft. This album serves as a testament to the therapeutic power of music and creative expression, as Simon herself noted that working on the project provided solace and purpose during a challenging period. Her influence on contemporary artists, as evidenced by Olivia Rodrigo's tribute at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, underscores her lasting legacy in American music. The album's intimate and personal nature, with songs reflecting on love, loss, and life's cyclical nature, resonates deeply with listeners and reinforces her reputation as a poignant storyteller. Furthermore, the involvement of her son, Ben Taylor, in the production and songwriting, signifies a generational continuation of her musical legacy.
What's Next?
While Carly Simon's health challenges have precluded her from traditional promotional activities like interviews, the release of 'Comes in Waves' will likely lead to critical reviews and fan engagement with her new music. The personal stories behind the songs, shared exclusively with Billboard, offer a deeper understanding of her creative process and the emotional landscape of the album, which may foster further discussion and appreciation among her audience. Given her health, extensive touring or public appearances are unlikely. However, the album's themes of resilience and the human experience may inspire other artists and individuals facing similar challenges. The continued impact of her music on new generations of artists will also be a point of interest, as her work continues to be discovered and celebrated.
Beyond the Headlines
Carly Simon's decision to release 'Comes in Waves' while openly discussing her Parkinson's diagnosis carries broader implications beyond the music itself. It contributes to a more open dialogue about chronic illness among public figures, potentially destigmatizing such conditions and offering a powerful example of living creatively despite health obstacles. The album's themes, such as the cyclical nature of emotions ('Comes in Waves') and the raw experience of love and loss ('Howl,' 'Maybe I Never Loved You'), delve into universal human experiences, offering listeners a sense of connection and understanding. Her use of music as a 'salve' highlights the profound psychological and emotional benefits of artistic creation, particularly during times of personal adversity. This narrative reinforces the idea that art can be a vital coping mechanism and a source of enduring purpose, transcending physical limitations and contributing to a legacy that extends beyond commercial success.
