I didn’t know where to start collecting information for this BLOG as I’m neither overly passionate about any particular genre that is underrepresented by music journalists, nor do I read huge volumes of reviews, band profiles etc.
I have, however, been lucky enough to find some funny critiques (BLOGS are a popular medium for this) of the Music Journos themselves.
Adam Williams, The Editor of popmatters , makes some interesting observations that may provide insight into why Music Journos focus their writing on Top 40 music.
He comments that:
“Music writing is rife with language that is as cringe worthy as it is obtuse”, and suggests that Music Journos are really just “wannabe musicians” who are seeking the fame without the talent. Perhaps focussing their writings on the popular stuff (not necessarily the good stuff) will bring them closer to the fame that they crave? :p
Williams has, “as a public service to aspiring music writers”, composed a short survey to test one’s “music instincts”. You can check this out here .
Other websites, such as sharewaremusicmachine.com have posts giving advice on “how to handle music journalists”, who may range from “obsessed freaks” to “so-called professionals who spend more time asking questions, listening and writing” than catching new music”.
How to handle music journalists
I’ve only just scraped the surface,. but it’s pretty clear already that the writings of the music journo don’t go unquestioned…. So are other people also concerned about the “gaps” in music journalism?
*to be continued*
:p
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Australian Music Online has published an interview with popular music journalist Matt Connors. He comments that the “biggest misconception about music journalists” is that they are “bitter and twisted, failed stars or wannabe musicians”. Instead, he sees them (himself!) as people who both love music and enjoy writing.
It makes sense to combine the two..