Music Critics

Robert Christgau is a highly respected American music journalist and essayist recognized for his influential music criticism. He played a pivotal role in shaping professional rock criticism in the late 1960s and actively supported genres such as hip hop and riot grrrl. Known for his concise, letter-graded album reviews and sharp humor, Christgau's work was prominently featured in The Village Voice for nearly four decades. He has also contributed to publications like Esquire and Rolling Stone. Christgau remains active in the field, concentrating on song-focused music and maintaining a strong emphasis on formal analysis.

Ian Alexander Meldrum, known as "Molly," is a highly influential figure in the Australian music industry. He has made significant contributions as a music critic, journalist, record producer, and musical entrepreneur. Meldrum rose to fame as the talent coordinator and on-air interviewer for the well-known music program Countdown. Over the years, he has produced numerous hit songs and has been a strong advocate for Australian music on a global scale. Meldrum's remarkable achievements have been acknowledged through prestigious awards, including his inductions into the ARIA Hall of Fame and the Order of Australia.

Harvey Pekar, a prominent figure in the American underground comic book scene, was renowned for his autobiographical American Splendor series. Known as the "poet laureate of Cleveland," Pekar significantly influenced the perception and appreciation of graphic novels and autobiographical comics. His work centered on everyday challenges and the quest for creative expression in a tumultuous world. Pekar received recognition for his contributions, including the Inkpot Award, American Book Award, Harvey Award, and posthumous induction into the Eisner Award Hall of Fame.

Armond Allen White, an American film and music critic, is well-known for his contributions to publications like National Review, Out, CityArts, New York Press, and The City Sun. His work has also been featured in Film Comment, Variety, The Nation, The New York Times, Slate, Columbia Journalism Review, and First Things. White is distinguished for his provocative and contrarian reviews, offering unique perspectives in film criticism. As an African-American, gay, conservative critic, he stands out as a minority in various facets of his field.

John Hammond Jr. was a prominent American record producer, civil rights activist, and music critic who significantly influenced popular music in the 20th century. As a talent scout, he played a crucial role in discovering and fostering the careers of legendary musicians such as Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Billie Holiday, Count Basie, Aretha Franklin, and more. Hammond was instrumental in revitalizing the music of delta blues artist Robert Johnson, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Erin McNaught is a talented Australian individual with a diverse professional background spanning modeling, acting, presenting, and beauty pageantry. She first gained recognition as a model, representing Australia in the Miss Universe 2006 competition. McNaught then transitioned into acting, landing a role in the popular soap opera Neighbours. Additionally, she served as a television presenter for MTV, hosting their MTV Hits Weekly Hot30 Countdown show. McNaught's versatility and achievements have firmly established her as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Stephen Thomas Erlewine, an American music critic, gained recognition for his role as a former senior editor at AllMusic. He has written various artist biographies and record reviews for the platform and continues to work as a freelance writer, offering liner notes on occasions. With a background in English from the University of Michigan and editorial experience at The Michigan Daily, Erlewine has made significant contributions to authoritative guides on blues and hip-hop music genres, establishing a strong presence in the music industry.

Adolphe Adam, a prolific and versatile French composer, is renowned for his impactful contributions to opera, ballet, and popular music. His extensive body of work encompasses piano arrangements, light songs, ballads, operas, and ballets, all celebrated for their genuine inspiration and dramatic development. Notable among his creations are the operas Le chalet and Le postillon de Lonjumeau, along with the ballet Giselle, a significant milestone in choreography history. Additionally, Adam's musical legacy endures through the beloved Christmas classic, "O Holy Night".

Paul Le Flem was a renowned French composer and music critic celebrated for his significant impact on the classical music realm. His compositions, influenced by his Breton background, were known for incorporating folk elements and showcasing emotional depth with complex harmonies. Le Flem was recognized for his innovative and talented approach to composing music. In addition to his composing, he was respected for his insightful critiques of various musical works and performances.

Paul Dukas, a prominent French composer, critic, scholar, and teacher, was known for his meticulous self-criticism and discerning approach to composition. His renowned piece, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," achieved widespread acclaim after being featured in the Disney film "Fantasia." Dukas garnered respect from both traditional and innovative circles within the French music community, drawing inspiration from a variety of composers. In addition to his composing endeavors, he was a prolific music critic and later served as a professor at esteemed music institutions, where he mentored influential composers such as Maurice Duruflé and Olivier Messiaen.

Gabriel Marcel was a distinguished French philosopher known for his contributions to Christian existentialism. He explored the struggles individuals encounter in a technologically driven society through a substantial body of work comprising numerous books and plays. Unlike his contemporaries, such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Marcel coined terms like philosophy of existence or neo-Socrateanism to articulate his unique perspective. His acclaimed two-volume publication, The Mystery of Being, established him as a prominent figure in existential philosophy.

Janet R. Maslin is a distinguished American journalist recognized for her contributions as a film and literary critic at The New York Times. She served as the Times film critic for more than two decades and later transitioned to the role of book critic for another fifteen years. In addition to her critical writing, Maslin played a key role in founding the Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville, New York, where she now acts as the president of its board of directors.

Kaikhosru Shapurji Sorabji was a renowned English composer, music critic, pianist, and writer recognized for his diverse body of work spanning over seventy years. His compositions, which varied from short pieces to extensive works, demonstrated intricate technical prowess and a unique fusion of baroque structures with contemporary elements. Sorabji's music, particularly his piano compositions, symphonies, toccatas, and studies, exhibited avant-garde harmonies and rhythms that were ahead of his time. Despite limiting public performances, his significant contributions to 20th-century music have been increasingly acknowledged since the early 2000s.

David Fricke is a well-known American music journalist recognized for his role as the senior editor at Rolling Stone magazine. Specializing in rock music, he has been a significant presence in the industry for more than 40 years. Fricke's tenure at Rolling Stone encompasses serving as music editor in the 1990s and later transitioning to his present position. His perceptive writing and vast expertise have established him as a highly respected figure in rock journalism.

Henry Gauthier-Villars, writing under the pen name Willy, was a renowned French writer and music critic in the fin de siècle era. He used multiple pseudonyms including Henry Maugis, Robert Parville, and Boris Zichine. His notable partnership with Colette, whom he later married, was a significant contribution to literature. Willy's impact went beyond his own works, as he influenced the literary landscape of his time through his reviews and guidance of new writers.

Stanley Crouch was a multifaceted American figure, renowned for his work as a poet, music and cultural critic, syndicated columnist, novelist, and biographer. His expertise in jazz criticism was widely respected, contributing significantly to the field. Crouch's literary accomplishments were highlighted by his 2000 novel, Don't the Moon Look Lonesome?, showcasing his versatility as a writer. Throughout his professional life, he made a lasting impact on the worlds of literature, music, and cultural commentary, leaving behind a rich legacy.

Simon Reynolds is a highly regarded English music journalist and author, known for his extensive career in the industry. Beginning at Melody Maker in the mid-1980s, he later worked as a freelancer for notable publications including Spin, Rolling Stone, The New York Times, The Village Voice, The Guardian, The Wire, and Pitchfork. Reynolds is celebrated for his perceptive analyses of music and popular culture, and has written several well-received books on diverse topics within the realm of music and society.

Paul Morley is a well-known British music journalist recognized for his notable work at the New Musical Express in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He has written for various publications and authored multiple books on music. Morley is a co-founder of ZTT Records and a member of the electronic music group Art of Noise. Apart from his music-related endeavors, he has managed bands, served as a promoter, and appeared as a television presenter, highlighting his substantial impact on the music industry.

Nick Kent is a well-known figure in British music journalism and a musician. He became prominent for his role as a rock critic for the NME in the 1970s, establishing himself as a key voice in the industry. Kent is also recognized for his highly regarded books such as The Dark Stuff (1994) and Apathy for the Devil (2010), which cemented his status as a respected writer and commentator on rock music and culture.

César Cui was a prominent Russian composer, music critic, and member of The Five, a group of composers devoted to cultivating a unique Russian musical style. Additionally, Cui held the rank of Engineer-General in the Imperial Russian Army and taught fortifications at Russian military academies. He authored numerous monographs on the subject, making substantial contributions to both music and military education.

Greil Marcus is a highly influential American author, music journalist, and cultural critic acclaimed for his scholarly and literary essays on rock music in relation to culture and politics. His work effectively intertwines music with broader societal matters, providing profound insights into the intersection of art and politics. Through his writings, Marcus emphasizes the role of music as a mirror of cultural shifts and a channel for social discourse, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in music criticism and cultural analysis.

Dave Marsh is a prominent American music critic, radio talk show host, and writer known for his influential work in the industry. He was a crucial editor at Creem magazine and has contributed to respected publications such as Newsday, The Village Voice, and Rolling Stone. Marsh has written several books on rock music and musicians, showcasing his expertise in the field. He is also a committee member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further highlighting his deep involvement in the music industry.

Ellen Willis was a well-known American journalist celebrated for her role as a left-wing political writer, activist, feminist, and pop music critic. She made valuable contributions to the field through her perceptive and stimulating writing. Willis was praised for her critical insights and reflections on a range of social and cultural topics. Her impactful career was highlighted by the posthumous recognition she received, notably winning the National Book Critics Circle Award for Criticism for her essay collection, "The Essential Ellen Willis."

Sir Sacheverell Reresby Sitwell, 6th Baronet, was a renowned English writer recognized for his deep knowledge of baroque architecture and his significant impact as an art and music critic. Over the span of his career, he penned approximately 50 volumes of poetry and a multitude of works covering diverse topics including art, music, architecture, and travel. Sitwell's professional legacy is marked by his extensive and influential contributions in these realms, solidifying his esteemed position within the cultural milieu of his era.

Remo Giazotto, an Italian musicologist, music critic, and composer, is celebrated for his comprehensive catalog of Tomaso Albinoni's compositions. He was a respected music critic and editor for leading Italian music publications, and held academic positions at the University of Florence and Accademia Nazionale di S. Cecilia. Giazotto also oversaw chamber and international music programs for the Italian state broadcaster RAI. His contributions to editing composer biographies and his work on the Adagio in G minor, allegedly inspired by an Albinoni fragment, are highly regarded in the music world.

Kelefa T. Sanneh is an accomplished British-born American journalist and music critic known for his work in covering the rock and roll, hip-hop, and pop music scenes. He wrote for The New York Times from 2000 to 2008 before becoming a staff writer for The New Yorker in 2008. In 2021, Sanneh published "Major Labels: A History of Popular Music in Seven Genres," showcasing his expertise and passion for music journalism and criticism.

Marcia Davenport was a respected American writer and music critic known for her pioneering biography of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the first American biography of the legendary musician. She also penned acclaimed novels like The Valley of Decision and East Side, West Side, which were later adapted into successful films. Davenport's work highlighted her profound knowledge of music and storytelling, solidifying her as a significant figure in the literary and music spheres.

Nik Cohn is a distinguished British writer renowned for his significant contributions to music journalism and cultural criticism. His writing is distinguished by a mix of keen analysis and compelling storytelling. Cohn rose to prominence with his influential piece "Tribal Rites of the New Saturday Night," which served as the inspiration for the iconic film "Saturday Night Fever." He has penned numerous acclaimed books on music history and popular culture, demonstrating his profound understanding and enthusiasm for the subject matter. Cohn's legacy continues to resonate in the realms of journalism and literature.

Charles Welles Rosen was a celebrated American pianist and music writer recognized for his exceptional career as a concert pianist, influential recordings, and insightful writings on music. His book "The Classical Style" is a significant contribution to music literature. Rosen was highly respected for his expertise in interpreting classical music through his performances and analytical writings. His legacy inspires and educates musicians and music enthusiasts worldwide.

Eduard Hanslick, a prominent Austrian music critic, aesthetician, and historian, made significant contributions to music aesthetics. Serving as the chief music critic of the Neue Freie Presse for several decades, he played a crucial role in shaping musical discourse. His well-known treatise "Vom Musikalisch-Schönen" is a notable work that enhances our understanding of musical beauty. Hanslick's conservative views favored absolute music and he actively supported composers like Robert Schumann and Johannes Brahms, while offering critique towards the works of others such as Franz Liszt and Richard Wagner.

Willi Schmid was a German music critic and musician who served in the Imperial Army during World War I. He studied music under Christian Döbereiner and founded the Munich Viol Quartet. Schmid was a respected music critic, known for his contributions to the Münchener Neueste Nachrichten. Tragically, he became an accidental victim of the Night of the Long Knives due to mistaken identity and was killed by the Nazi SS. His professional accomplishments and influence were commemorated by his friend, philosopher Oswald Spengler.

Olga Samaroff was a renowned American pianist, music critic, and influential teacher. She trained under notable musicians like Élie-Miriam Delaborde, son of Charles-Valentin Alkan, and gained recognition for her outstanding performances and insightful critiques. Samaroff's career was elevated by her marriage to the renowned conductor Leopold Stokowski. A key figure in the Philadelphia Art Alliance, she made a lasting mark on the classical music world through her exceptional skills as a performer and educator.

Harold Charles Schonberg, a prominent American music critic and author, was chief music critic at The New York Times from 1960 to 1980. In 1971, he became the first music critic to win the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism. Known for his support of Romantic piano music and his critical opinions on conductor Leonard Bernstein, Schonberg was a major figure in music criticism. He wrote many books on music and even published a work on chess.

Tikhon Nikolayevich Khrennikov was a prominent Russian and Soviet composer, pianist, and General Secretary of the Union of Soviet Composers from 1948 to 1991. He was known for his political activities and composed a diverse range of musical works, including symphonies, concertos, operas, ballets, and film scores. Khrennikov's career was closely tied to the political environment of the Soviet Union until its dissolution in 1991.

Stanley Sadie, a distinguished music journalist and editor, was known for his contributions to prestigious publications such as The Times and The Musical Times. His most notable achievement was editing the Grove Dictionary of Music. He also served as the president of the Royal Musical Association. Sadie's expertise in the works of Mozart and Handel made significant contributions to the field of music scholarship and criticism. Throughout his professional life, he demonstrated unwavering dedication to music journalism, editing, and scholarly writing.

Charles Wakefield Cadman was a prolific American composer known for his collaborations with Nelle Richmond Eberhart, who provided texts for his songs and operas. His works often explored American Indian themes, as seen in his composition of Four American Indian Songs and two operas on Indian subjects. Throughout his 40-year career, Cadman demonstrated versatility by composing across various genres. His musical legacy is marked by a strong connection to American culture and a blend of traditional and contemporary influences.

Géza Csáth was a versatile Hungarian professional who excelled in various fields, including writing, playwriting, music, music criticism, psychiatry, and medicine. His diverse talents allowed him to make significant contributions in both artistic and scientific realms. Csáth's creative abilities shone through his work as a writer and playwright, while his analytical and medical expertise were evident in his roles as a music critic, psychiatrist, and physician. His multifaceted career showcased a unique combination of artistic talent and scientific knowledge.

Wilfrid Mellers was a highly regarded figure in music, excelling as a critic, musicologist, and composer. His career was defined by a profound love for music and a dedication to uncovering its intricacies. Mellers made substantial contributions to the field through his perceptive critiques, scholarly investigations, and innovative compositions. His expertise and impact were acknowledged across the music industry, establishing him as a revered figure in the realm of music.

Augusto de Campos is a prominent Brazilian writer who played a key role in founding the Concrete poetry movement in Brazil. Alongside his brother Haroldo de Campos, he has made significant contributions to literature. Beyond his writing, Augusto is also acknowledged for his skills as a translator, music critic, and visual artist. His diverse talents have solidified his reputation as a versatile creative force, influencing poetry, translation, music criticism, and visual arts in both Brazilian and international contexts.

Jeannette Thurber made significant contributions to classical music patronage in the United States. In 1885, she established the National Conservatory of Music of America, where she emphasized the development of an American sound in orchestral music. Thurber was a strong advocate for the inclusion of women, people of color, and the handicapped at her racially integrated school. She played a key role in bringing composer Antonín Dvořák to the U.S. and supported American musicians in cultivating their music. Thurber's commitment to music education and her innovative approach solidified her as a trailblazer in American music history.

Johann Cochlaeus, a distinguished German humanist, was recognized for his expertise in music theory and controversial writings. He engaged in theological disputes, notably with Martin Luther, during the Reformation. Cochlaeus's intellectual pursuits and theological arguments garnered recognition. His works on music theory were influential in the understanding and advancement of musical practices at the time. Through his professional endeavors, Cochlaeus made a lasting impact on the fields of humanism, music theory, and theological debate.

Reginald De Koven was a notable American music critic and composer, known primarily for his work in creating comic operas. His professional life was marked by a prolific output of musical compositions, with a particular focus on the genre of comic opera. De Koven's work as a music critic also contributed to his reputation in the music industry. Throughout his career, he established himself as a respected figure in the world of music, leaving a lasting impact on the American musical landscape.

Friedrich Wilhelm Marpurg, a prominent German music critic, music theorist, and composer, made significant contributions to the musical landscape of the 18th century. He engaged actively with Enlightenment figures, fostering intellectual discussions and collaborations. Marpurg's expertise in music theory and criticism earned him a respected reputation among peers, influencing musical thought and practice. His work left a lasting impact on the development of music theory and criticism.

Daniel Gregory Mason was a prominent American composer and music critic known for his significant contributions to American music education. He held teaching positions at various prestigious institutions, including Columbia University and the Juilliard School. Mason was a prolific writer, publishing numerous books and articles on music theory and criticism. As a composer, he incorporated elements of American folk music into his works, earning recognition for his unique style. His legacy includes shaping the development of music education in the United States.

Winthrop Sargeant was a renowned music critic celebrated for his perceptive reviews and commentary. His contributions significantly enhanced the understanding and admiration of classical music in the United States. Apart from his role as a critic, Sargeant also showcased his talent as a violinist, bringing a practical aspect to his musical knowledge. His writing, respected for its profound understanding and fervor for the subject, firmly established him as a prominent figure in the realm of music.

Andrew Brian Porter was a versatile figure renowned for his significant impact on the music world. He excelled as a music critic, opera librettist, director, scholar, and organ player. Porter's profound understanding and love for music shone through in his work, establishing him as a highly respected individual in the industry. His varied talents enabled him to make substantial contributions across different areas of music.

Joseph McLellan was a renowned American music critic celebrated for his insightful and influential reviews of classical music. As a prominent critic for major publications, McLellan provided thoughtful analysis and commentary on performances, composers, and musical trends. His writing was known for its depth and clarity, helping to shape public perception of classical music and its artists. McLellan's contributions to music criticism enriched the cultural discourse around classical music, earning him respect and recognition in the field.