Courtney Barnett Shares Timeless Artists Every Kid Should Hear

Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett has shared her recommendations for artists that every kid should listen to, citing their timeless and influential music. In a conversation with Illustoria, Barnett named a diverse range of artists from various genres, including folk, jazz, post-punk, new wave, and rap.

Among Barnett's recommendations are folk icons Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, known for theirpoetic lyricismand masterful songwriting. She also highlighted jazz legend Nina Simone, celebrated for her powerful and emotive voice, as well as themes of freedom and protest in her music.

In the realm of artsy punk and post-punk, Barnett praisedPatti Smith, Talking Heads, and X Ray Spex for their literary influences, cultural references, and entertaining instrumentation. She also named rap icon Lauryn Hill, whose debut record"The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill"remains a genre-defining classic.

Barnett believes these artists have created music that has stood the test of time, and their works are essential for kids to listen to. She notes that their music is characterized by vulnerability, mastery, and a sense of nostalgia and familiarity.

"I think when I was growing up, I kind of discounted [older artists] because I thought they were just old people," Barnett admitted, reflecting on initially dismissing older artists before coming to appreciate their work.

To make these influential artists accessible to young listeners, aplaylistfeaturing Barnett's recommended musicians has been curated. The playlist includes a diverse range of genres and styles, ensuring there's something for every kid to enjoy and discover.

Courtney Barnett's thoughtful recommendations serve as a guide for parents and young music enthusiasts to explore timeless artists across various genres. Her diverse selection highlights the importance of exposing children to influential musicians who have made a lasting impact on music history.