Editor’s note: The following article is an op-ed, and the views expressed are the author’s own. Read more opinions on theGrio.
I used to be a complete music snob. I’m much better now, which is to say that I don’t completely judge people based on their musical choices. People like what they like and that’s OK … ish. With that said, there was a time in my life when I absolutely hated the sounds of smooth jazz. You know what I’m talking about — the Kenny G model of music that was built to live as telephone hold music, elevator music and the stuff a certain demographic would play at dinner parties that I believe was supposed to highlight some type of jazz knowledge without actually knowing anything.
Now look, I grew up on Kenny G and, at this point, have even come around to the fact maybe, just maybe, I’m actually a fan. But even that has been in spurts. I can’t really think of a single time in my life when I intentionally put on even a Kenny G song without reason, and definitely never just because I couldn’t think of anything else to listen to. That has started to change, however, as I’ve gotten older and begun to appreciate music that wasn’t cursing me out or reminding me of my youthful angst. Plus, I have children and you just can’t play Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic” around little children. I mean, you can, but I imagine that even Dr. Dre would recommend against it at this point. And since I simply cannot listen to “Kidz Bop” or theme music from shows like “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” or “Beyblades” every day, I started perusing my satellite radio options, since I’m paying for it.
Let’s take a quick detour. I remember one day hopping into an Uber with a cat who was trying to find some music to play for the lengthy ride we had towards the airport. Now, I’m guessing he was trying to size me up — was I a hip-hop guy or an NPR…
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