Examining The New York Times’ Top 30 Songwriters List

A new list from The New York Times identifies the "30 Greatest Living American Songwriters," created by a panel of six journalists with input from around 250 music experts. This initiative aims to highlight significant figures in songwriting but has sparked debate over some omissions and inclusions, particularly from country music.

Critics argue that many current popular songwriters were overlooked, reflecting a trend of cynicism towards such lists. While the Times acknowledges its limitations, it strives to present a wide range of perspectives. Notably, well-known country figures like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson made the list, along with Lucinda Williams, revealing an effort to include diverse songwriting backgrounds.

However, some feel the list falls short by grouping several contemporary country songwriters—Josh Osborne, Brandy Clark, and Shane McAnally—into one entry, which diminishes their individual contributions. Critics suggest that including the "Love Junkies," a trio of successful songwriters, would have provided a stronger representation from country music.

Taylor Swift’s inclusion has also drawn criticism, with some questioning her status as a great songwriter. While her impact on pop culture and songwriting is significant, her ranking alongside legendary figures like Bob Dylan raises concerns about comparison.

The list’s restrictions, such as focusing exclusively on American songwriters, have led to further exclusions, including notable names like Paul McCartney and Joni Mitchell. Critics highlight that James McMurtry, known for his powerful songwriting, also deserves recognition.

As discussions around this list continue, it serves as a reminder of the subjective nature of musical appreciation and the ongoing contributions of songwriters.

How much do you know?

What publication created the list of the '30 Greatest Living American Songwriters'?

Rolling Stone

Billboard

The New York Times

Pitchfork

How many journalists were on the panel that created the list?

Four

Five

Six

Seven

Which country music figures were mentioned as part of the list?

Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson

Garth Brooks and Tim McGraw

Taylor Swift and Blake Shelton

Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban

What criticism was made regarding the contemporary country songwriters included in the list?

They were represented too individually

They were grouped into one entry

They were not included at all

Their songs were overlooked

Who is mentioned as raising concerns about Taylor Swift's ranking on the list?

James McMurtry

Bob Dylan

Dolly Parton

Stakeholders of the Times

Which notable songwriter was excluded due to the list's restriction focusing exclusively on American songwriters?

Joni Mitchell

Taylor Swift

Lucinda Williams

Paul Simon

The list only included well-known country songwriters.

True False

The panel received input from about 250 music experts.

True False

The restrictions of the list resulted in including some international songwriters.

True False

Critics agree that the omissions in the list reflect a positive trend in music recognition.

True False

James McMurtry is mentioned as deserving recognition for his songwriting.

True False

The initiative to create the list has been universally accepted without any debate.

True False

The list was created by a panel of six journalists with input from around music experts.

Notable country figures like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson were included, but some felt the list fell short by grouping contemporary country songwriters.

Critics suggested that including the 'Love Junkies' would have provided a stronger representation from music.

Some question Taylor Swift's status as a great songwriter alongside legendary figures like Dylan.

The list's restrictions excluded notable names like McCartney.

The discussions around the list highlight the subjective nature of musical and the contributions of songwriters.

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