4 Classic Rock Songs That Aged Like Fine Wine

No matter how much we enjoy some classic rock songs, we can agree they didn’t age well. The era in which they came out was a different time, and some tunes just don’t fit today’s world. Some contain lyrics that captured the spirit of a bygone era that modern audiences can’t relate to. Then, there are those with lyrics that show how much society’s idea of what is acceptable has changed over the years. However, there are plenty of songs that aged like fine wine. Those tracks are just as relevant today as they were upon their initial release.

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The classic rock songs below come from a variety of artists who had something to say about society. Now, decades later, people can listen to those songs and apply them to the world they see around them. The songwriters behind these classics probably lament the fact that they remain relevant today.

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1. “Fortunate Son” by Creedence Clearwater Revival

Some believe that “Fortunate Son” is a patriotic anthem. It’s not. Instead, this swamp rock classic is a Vietnam War-era protest song. The lyrics are about the rich and powerful dragging our country into war and sending young, working-class men to fight while their children remain safe in the United States. This, unfortunately, hasn’t changed and probably won’t. As the world teeters on the edge of war, this song is just as relevant today as it was in 1969.

2. “Born in the U.S.A.” by Bruce Springsteen

Like “Fortunate Son,” many erroneously believe that this classic rock staple is a patriotic banger. However, that’s not what the Boss had in mind when he recorded “Born in the U.S.A.” Instead, he was lamenting the poor treatment veterans receive in the United States. More than four decades later, countless veterans are still struggling with homelessness and mental health issues. They also struggle to receive quality healthcare from the Veterans Administration. In short, “Born in the U.S.A.” is just as relevant today as it was in 1984.

3. “Children of the Grave” by Black Sabbath

Many people don’t think of Black Sabbath as a socially conscious rock and roll band, but classic songs like this one show that they were. Taken from their 1971 album, Master of Reality, “Children of the Grave” is about a youth revolution against war, hatred, and environmental destruction. The youth of today are still fighting the same battles, hoping to bring more love into the world. This song will likely continue to be relevant as long as there are idealistic young people who want to change the world for the better.

4. “Let It Be” by the Beatles

The title track from the Beatles’ final album is among their most beautiful compositions. Written when the world was ideologically divided over war and other social issues, the lyrics offer hope. Lines like And when the brokenhearted people living in the world agree / There will be an answer, let it be. / For though they may be parted, there is still a chance that they will see. / There will be an answer, let it be drive home the meaning of the song. Once again, the world is ideologically divided, and everyone could use a little hope.

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