How to Feel Old: Here are Three Songs that Turn 20 in 2018

1.) Kid Rock “Bawitdaba”

What does 1998 Kid Rock have in common with 2018 Kid Rock? Neither of them are running for congress.

“Bawitdaba” is how Kid Rock introduced himself to us. “My name is Kiiiiiiiid. Kid Rock!” Pleased to meet you, Mr. Rock. I will happily get in the pit and try and love someone if you will promise never to seek elected office.

2.) Semisonic “Closing Time”

You thought this song, which came out in March 1998, was about last call at a bar. Especially the line “you don’t have to go home but you can’t stay here”. In fact, for 20 years it has been the song of choice to clear out stragglers and the song played when a rock radio station flips formats.

Well, the song is actually about the miracle of birth which Semisonic singer Dan Wilson compares to being shooed out of some dive by a bouncer.

3.) Cher “Believe”

I will never forget the first time I heard “Believe” on the radio. It was the first time I had ever heard the phenomenon that would become known as “auto-tune”. That’s right. Auto-tune wasn’t pioneered by T-Pain, Lil’ Wayne, or Ke$ha. It was first done by a woman who is now 71 years old. “Do you beliEeEiEive in life after love” is how I imagine that lyric looks on paper.