Lauryn Hill's always been a hero of mine. And Bruno Mars, Janelle

"Lauryn Hill's always been a hero of mine. And Bruno Mars, Janelle Monae, and Adele, those are the current artists I would reference in terms of who's been able to do really amazing pop records with really cool, organic throwback elements of soul in there as well." These words from Judith Hill reflect a deep reverence for those artists who not only craft music that resonates with the present but also draw from the wellsprings of the past, infusing their work with the timeless essence of soul and emotion. Hill’s admiration for these artists speaks to the broader truth that true artistry transcends time, blending the influences of past generations with the fresh, innovative spirit of the present. She highlights those who, like Lauryn Hill, have captured the essence of soul music and woven it into the fabric of modern pop, creating works that both honor the past and propel the future.

In the ancient world, the value of tradition and innovation was central to the development of culture and the arts. The Greeks, for example, were deeply influenced by their myths and the art of storytelling passed down from generation to generation. Yet, they were also known for pushing the boundaries of these traditions, using their inherited knowledge to create new forms of art—whether in philosophy, drama, or architecture. Sophocles and Euripides, for instance, drew upon traditional themes from earlier playwrights but added their own innovative techniques, deepening the emotional complexity of their works. They were masters of fusing the old with the new, just as Judith Hill praises artists like Bruno Mars and Janelle Monae for blending the rich heritage of soul music with contemporary sounds to create something fresh and relevant.

This balance between heritage and modernity is also seen in the Renaissance, when artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo drew upon classical ideals but reinterpreted them with new techniques and perspectives. These artists were deeply influenced by the ancient Greeks and Romans, yet their works were radical in their individual expression and their ability to combine classical knowledge with innovative vision. Just as Renaissance artists reshaped old traditions, so do modern artists like Lauryn Hill and Adele take the soul music of their ancestors and infuse it with new forms of expression, creating timeless works that reflect both the past and the present.

Lauryn Hill, with her groundbreaking album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, exemplifies the union of soul, hip-hop, and R&B, drawing from the deep well of African-American musical traditions while making an indelible mark on mainstream music. Her work resonates not only because of its musical innovation but because it taps into the emotional depths of the human experience. Like the ancient poets who spoke of love, loss, and struggle, Hill's music speaks to the soul, transcending genres and defying expectations. Her ability to blend organic soul music with contemporary pop influences has made her a guiding force for a generation of artists who seek to honor tradition while creating something new.

Similarly, artists like Bruno Mars and Janelle Monae take inspiration from the classic soul sounds of the past, like James Brown and Stevie Wonder, but add their own innovative touch, creating music that resonates deeply with modern audiences. Mars, with his irresistible fusion of funk, pop, and soul, channels the energy of past legends while crafting his own distinctive style. Monae, with her unique blend of retro soul, funk, and Afrofuturism, brings a visionary approach to the music world, proving that it is possible to both celebrate and reimagine the music of the past. These artists remind us that the future of music lies in our ability to synthesize old influences with new possibilities.

The lesson in Judith Hill’s words is that the greatest artists are those who do not live in the past nor the future exclusively, but who embrace both in a harmonious fusion. They take what came before and reframe it, making it relevant to the present. Just as the ancients took the wisdom of the past and transformed it into something new, so too must we in the present find ways to innovate while honoring what has come before. Artists are the true stewards of culture, shaping how we see and experience the world, and in doing so, they bridge the past and the future, carrying forward the soul of humanity in new and exciting ways.

In our own lives, we can apply this wisdom by celebrating tradition while remaining open to new ideas and perspectives. Whether we are pursuing our artistic endeavors, careers, or personal growth, we can learn from the example of these artists and honor the past while creating something authentically our own. Just as Lauryn Hill and Bruno Mars have done, we too can find strength in the roots of tradition while forging our own path forward, creating work that speaks to both our heritage and our vision for the future. In every creative act, let us be inspired by the legacy of those who came before, and at the same time, let us boldly redefine the boundaries of what is possible.