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Great Music Critics and Their Theories
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Simon Reynolds
Writes about the evolution of popular music genres, particularly post-punk and electronic music, and has developed theories about nostalgia and retromania in music.
Ellen Willis
Although more widely remembered for feminist writing, her contributions to music criticism engaged with the intersection of politics, culture, and the personal elements of rock music.
Greg Kot
Known for his work with the Chicago Tribune and as a co-host of 'Sound Opinions', Kot's criticism explores the intersection of music with social and digital trends, and includes extensive analysis of rock and hip-hop.
Nik Cohn
Often associated with the early development of rock music journalism, his criticism includes a focus on the energy and spirit of rock and pop culture.
Deems Taylor
Known for commentary during intermissions of the New York Philharmonic, as well as a comprehensive approach to both classical and film music criticism.
Stanley Crouch
His work in jazz criticism often involves discussions of race and American identity, an emphasis on swing as the central element of jazz, and critiques of avant-garde movements within jazz.
Carl Wilson
Best known for challenging the idea of 'guilty pleasures' in music and introducing sociological and philosophical lenses to music criticism.
Richard Taruskin
His work encompasses the challenge to accepted musicological narratives, insistence on the performative aspect of music, and ethical considerations in performance practice.
Jessica Hopper
Her criticism encapsulates the exploration of gender in music, reflects on the DIY and punk scenes, and advocates for marginalized voices in the music community.
Theodor W. Adorno
While his main focus was the philosophy of music, Adorno's criticism involves the analysis of the sociological and cultural aspects of music, as well as the study of the fetishization of music under capitalism.
Harold C. Schonberg
Known for his critical standards in evaluating performances, promotion of the 'Great Tradition' in music, and historical perspectives on music criticism.
Leonard Bernstein
Though known primarily as a composer and conductor, Bernstein's music criticism includes his televised Young People's Concerts which introduced classical music theory and appreciation to new audiences.
Eduard Hanslick
Writings about the 'purely musical', his belief in the autonomy of music, and criticism of music's dependence on outside influences.
Pauline Kael
Although primarily a film critic, Kael's influence extended to music criticism through her cultural analyses, opposition to academic detachment, and personal, passionate writing style.
Lester Bangs
His work is associated with a gonzo approach to music journalism, an emphasis on passion and authenticity in rock music, and critiques of the commercial music industry.
Nat Hentoff
Known as a staunch advocate for First Amendment rights, his jazz criticism stresses the importance of freedom and improvisation in music as well as social justice issues.
Dave Marsh
His writings typically underscore the connection between rock music and political activism, focus on music's role in culture and society, and often advocate for musicians' rights.
Amanda Petrusich
Her music criticism addresses the emotional and cultural significance of music, particularly in the indie and folk genres, and often reflects on the nature of collecting and nostalgia.
Susan McClary
Her work often focuses on feminist musicology, the cultural criticism of music, and the analysis of music using gender as a lens.
Anne Midgette
Renowned for her criticism that often addresses gender bias in classical music and opera, her clear and insightful reviews, and her advocacy for the victims of discrimination in the music industry.
Robert Christgau
Creator of the 'Consumer Guide' album reviews, pioneer in developing the 'rock critic' persona, and notable for his terse, pithy criticisms.
Alex Ross
Explores the interplay of classical and modern music, creates narratives around music history, and writes about music in a culturally contextualized form.
Greil Marcus
Best known for his literary approach to rock music criticism, exploration of American cultural themes in music, and connection between rock music and social history.
Anthony Tommasini
As chief music critic for The New York Times, he's known for his clear, educative writing, and his efforts to expand the canon of classical music, often highlighting lesser-known composers.
Jon Landau
Perhaps best known for his role in shaping Bruce Springsteen's career, his critical writing centers on the connection between personal experience and popular music, and the evolution of rock as an art form.
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