New York Times names 30 greatest living American songwriters
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Apr 28
New York Times names 30 greatest living American songwriters
5 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Apr 28
The unranked list, published April 27, 2026, was compiled with input from over 250 music insiders and six Times critics.
Artists featured include Nile Rodgers, Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, Stevie Wonder, Dolly Parton, Jay-Z, and Mariah Carey, representing a diverse range of genres and generations.
The project highlights each songwriter's influence, signature works, and impact on American music, offering critical essays and artist reflections to celebrate their contributions to the evolving American songbook.
Why were so many iconic classic rock legends left off the NYT's final list?
How did artists dying after nomination impact the 'Greatest Living Songwriters' selection?
How does this new 'American songbook' redefine the historical influence of Black artists?
In an era of AI music, what is the true purpose of this human-curated list?
Can data science create a better 'greatest songwriters' list than expert critics?
Which younger songwriter on the list is poised to become the next Bob Dylan?