OK, so here's the heads-up: I don't listen to a whole lot of pop music. Generally I think it sucks. There are a few artists I really like though.
Linkin Park: these guys are really talented. The voicings in "Numb" are a good example - a distinction between the screamy-ness and the regular sound and regular singing is incredible. I'm sure that he took some time to change over in the studio versions, but he's got to do it live too. It's cool. I'm kind of iffy though in thinking that they're supporting the Emo movement, which blows. I'm torn between the evident personal investment in the music (seen in the music video) and the emo elements (also seen in the music video). I never thought about the song in an emo sense until I saw the music video, so I don't know if that's necessarily true.
Eminem: this guy is a loser. He has amazing talent. But he blows it. For example "Without Me". Need I say more? He's a jackass. "Cuz we need a little controversy"? Retard.
Huey Lewis and the News: this might date me a little. They kick ass. Reminds me of the days when you didn't need to be a jackass to be a good band.
Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears: make me long for the days when you didn't need to be a total whore to be famous.
Any kind of metal: you suck.
Elton John: two words -- Bohemian Rhapsody.
Ricky Martin: I think this guy's fame was too short-lived. He seems like he's got actual talent, but I guess he didn't sell out to the rich white folk and didn't really live on forever. Too bad.
Offspring: Preach "Why don't you get a job" brothers!
Any kind of country: shutup newb!
I'd go on but I think my head is going to explode.