The Art of Songwriting...does it last forever?

The Rolling Stones, Elton John, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, Kiss, Stevie Wonder, Carole King....what do these artists all have in common?

These artists were all critically & commercially successful during the 1960's and 1970's due to the strength of their songwriting skills. In addition to this, all of these artists continue to tour the world and their concerts are weighted towards the performance of their greatest hits.

In theory, this concept is fine. However, let's think beyond the past: when was the last time any of these artists actually had a hit song?

Each to their own, however Elton John's "golden period" was 1970-1975. "Start Me Up" was a hit for The Stones in 1981; David Bowie's "Let's Dance" was a hit in 1983...it's a similar story for the balance of these artists.

This notion begs the question: "Does the art of songwriting last forever?".

Granted that musical styles have changed significantly during the decades, all of these artists continue to release new material which is largely overlooked, because it is sub-standard.

The Eagles' "Long Road To Eden" was one of the highest-selling CD's of 2007, however from an artistic perspective it was a blot on their copybook.

Kiss have gone back on their own word of never releasing a new CD again. Maybe Gene Simmons should have stood firm on his original public statement, as the CD has been poorly received.

In a time when "value for money" is important, we continue to pay excessive premiums to see these artists perform their greatest hits [and pay no attention to their new songs].

Does an artists' superior songwriting talent have a shelf life? I believe so....