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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Return Of Blunt Critical Honesty
- Wesley Morris notices critics expressing exasperation toward Taylor Swift as a sign criticism is returning to blunt honesty.
- He argues pop criticism had grown overly cautious, avoiding the kind of blunt judgments that once felt normal.
Muppets Taught Early Critic Role
- Wesley and Kelefa recall Statler and Waldorf as early lessons that critics are the grumpy counterpoint to popular opinion.
- They say that harsh, witty criticism taught them that critics exist to say when something "sucks."
Rockism As A Purity Paradigm
- Kelefa traces "rockism" as a purity paradigm privileging authenticity like live guitars and songwriting.
- He says that bias made critics miss exciting pop, hip-hop, and R&B by using the wrong vocabulary.
