Famous British Music Critics

Simon Reynolds is an accomplished English music journalist and author known for his work in publications such as Melody Maker, Spin, Rolling Stone, The New York Times, The Village Voice, The Guardian, The Wire, and Pitchfork. Starting his career in the mid-1980s, Reynolds has established himself as a prominent figure in the music industry, contributing insightful commentary and analysis on music and popular culture. With a diverse body of work, including several published books, he continues to be a respected voice in the field of music journalism.

Paul Morley is a prominent British music journalist known for his work at the New Musical Express in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He has contributed to various publications and authored several books on music. Morley co-founded the record label ZTT Records and was part of the synthpop band Art of Noise. In addition to his roles in the music industry, he has experience as a band manager, promoter, and television presenter, showcasing his diverse talents and extensive contributions to the music world.

Nick Kent is a prominent British rock critic and musician who gained recognition for his influential writing for the NME during the 1970s. He is best known for his acclaimed books "The Dark Stuff" (1994) and "Apathy for the Devil" (2010), which further solidified his reputation as a respected music journalist and author. Throughout his career, Kent has contributed significantly to the music industry through his insightful critiques, in-depth interviews, and compelling storytelling, establishing himself as a key figure in rock journalism.

Kaikhosru Shapurji Sorabji was an English composer, music critic, pianist, and writer known for his prolific output of music spanning seventy years. He composed a wide range of works, from miniatures to lengthy pieces, with a focus on piano compositions like nocturnes and symphonies for solo piano. Sorabji's style incorporated baroque forms, polyrhythms, tonal and atonal elements, and intricate ornamentation. Despite initially being self-taught, he garnered attention for his innovative harmonies and complex rhythms, influencing later composers.

Nik Cohn is a renowned British writer known for his contributions to music journalism and cultural commentary. He gained prominence for his writing style that blends vivid storytelling with keen insights into the world of music and popular culture. Cohn is particularly well-regarded for his work on rock and roll, with his writing showcasing a deep understanding of the genre's evolution and impact. Through his articles and books, he has established himself as a respected voice in the realms of music criticism and cultural analysis.

Sacheverell Sitwell was an English writer, art, and music critic known for his expertise in baroque architecture. Throughout his career, he authored around 50 volumes of poetry and wrote extensively on various subjects including art, music, architecture, and travel. Sitwell's contributions to the literary world and his keen insights into the arts earned him a reputation as a distinguished figure in cultural criticism. His works continue to be studied and appreciated for their depth and influence in the fields of art and architecture.

Stanley Sadie, a Cambridge alumnus, established himself as a prominent figure in the world of music journalism. He wrote for renowned publications like The Times and served as the editor of The Musical Times. His notable contribution includes editing the Grove Dictionary of Music. Sadie's influence extended further as he assumed the presidency of the Royal Musical Association. With a focus on Mozart and Handel, he penned numerous scholarly works, solidifying his reputation as an expert in classical music and musicology.

Andrew Brian Porter was a multi-talented individual known for his contributions to the world of music. He established himself as a prominent music critic, opera librettist, director, and scholar. His expertise extended to the realm of organ playing as well. Throughout his professional life, Porter's work showcased his deep understanding and passion for music, earning him a reputation as a respected figure in the industry. His diverse skill set allowed him to make significant contributions to various facets of the music world.

Wilfrid Mellers was a prominent figure in the field of music, known for his work as a music critic, musicologist, and composer. His professional life was marked by a deep passion for music and a commitment to exploring its various dimensions. Mellers contributed significantly to the understanding and appreciation of music through his insightful critiques, scholarly research, and original compositions. His expertise and influence were widely recognized in the music community, making him a respected authority in his field.