How much do you follow professional music critics?

[mvd]

Personally, I follow them only if it's an artist I don't know - and if I haven't heard enough of that artist's CD to form an opinion. After all, I like to follow my own taste. I also think music critics get too critical sometimes while overrating other artists just because they are different. I do read reviews for the entertainment value, and even e-mailed reviewer Thor Christensen of the Dallas Morning News to praise his B+ grade for Eisley's Room Noises. I give it an A, but that's just quibbling. I still might become a reviewer, so sometimes I give my feedback and ask questions. Just because I don't believe they should be automatically followed doesn't mean it isn't fun writing reviews. Plus, I might offer a unique point of view. So, how much do you follow them?

BTW, by follow I mean "give weight to."

[JVS]

1. I live and die upon their word!

Oh wait, no, I don't. I don't even read them. Nor do I listen to the music

[intheflow]

2. I've never bought any music on critic recommendation.

I either hear someone new at a concert, or a friend turns me onto to a musician or band, or the local college station plays something funky.

[MrSlayer]

3. Other: Never. That's why we have .mp3!

Now all you have to do is download and find out for yourself if you like it. If it's good you buy it, if it sucks you don't. No more being fooled by album covers or by idiotic critics and reviewers.

[mvd]

4. Yep, and there are also full album listening parties..

that are helpful.