New York Times Unveils “30 Greatest Living American Songwriters”

The New York Times Magazine released an unranked list of the “30 Greatest Living American Songwriters,” arriving amid debates over genre representation in rankings, such as the 2024 Apple Music Top 100 Albums list that drew criticism for its lone country entry. The roster spans multiple genres and includes Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, Dolly Parton, Jay-Z, Young Thug, Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, and others.

Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, and Bad Bunny Are Among the "30 Greatest Living American Songwriters" - Hits 96

Six Times journalists consulted roughly 250 music insiders and critics to compile the list, which is limited to living American songwriters. The Times said the unranked list is meant to provoke discussion, not serve as a definitive ranking.

The list features long-established figures such as Stevie Wonder and Paul Simon alongside contemporary artists like Bad Bunny and Young Thug. Nashville’s Brandy Clark, Shane McAnally, and Josh Osborne are credited jointly for their collaborative work.

Seattle Times

Clark, McAnally, and Osborne occupy a single slot, a decision framed as acknowledging Nashville’s current generation while also checking an LGBT box. Critics note the three writers have distinct careers yet are compressed into one entry.

Commentators argue thirty slots are insufficient for a full portrait of American songwriting. Omitted names include James McMurtry, Paul McCartney, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell. The “American” restriction also excludes influential non-American songwriters who have shaped U.S. music.

The Times explained the list was assembled with input from more than 250 music insiders and six critics, and that it is deliberately unranked. The organization framed the project as a conversation starter, noting it will not satisfy every listener.

• “from The Times: “All three writers grew up in modest circumstances far from big cities, and their songs display sharp class consciousness.” — Seattle Times commentary on Clark, McAnally, Osborne

Seattle Times

• “It is intended to start conversations — not to end them.” — New York Times Magazine editorial note

New York Times

• “We considered all sorts of remarkable songwriters — including lots of weird geniuses and under-loved influences,” — Times article on selection process

Complex

• “Jon Caramanica of the NY Times wrote of Thugger’s songwriting: During his titanic mixtape run in the early to mid-2010s, he became the genre’s signature eccentric, rapping in free-associative howls and chirps.” — Jon Caramanica on Young Thug (NYT)

Young Thug Among NYT's Greatest Living American Songwriters

The list has sparked debate over genre balance, the adequacy of a thirty-slot format, and the definition of “American” songwriting. The Times invites readers to submit their own selections in a poll, fostering ongoing dialogue about the evolving American songbook.

New York Times