Cannonball with Wesley Morris When Did Music Critics Get So Nice?
Nov 6, 2025
Kelefa Sanneh, a cultural critic with extensive experience in music and popular culture, joins Wesley to explore the evolution of music criticism. They delve into the shift from harsh critiques to a more nurturing approach, questioning what's been lost. Kelefa discusses the impact of identity on critical perspectives, while also touching on the role of poptimism in embracing diverse musical styles. They reflect on how critics can foster public conversations and consider what future criticism might look like in this kinder age.
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Hornby's Top-10 Listening Experiment
- Kelefa recounts his 2001 New Yorker debut profiling Jay-Z amid a music issue that included Nick Hornby listening to the top 10 albums.
- He recalls Hornby's honest reaction to mainstream albums as a model of candid criticism.
Honesty Over Politeness In Reviews
- Kelefa values Hornby's blunt honesty, noting modern critics often avoid outright dislike to not seem out of touch.
- He laments that critics now shy from saying plainly when popular music isn't for them.
Greg Tate's Tough, Nuanced Review
- Wesley reads Greg Tate's review of Public Enemy, which praises the music while condemning its offensive politics.
- Tate balances admiration with firm moral criticism, showing confident, complex criticism.
