The Lightweights and the Critically Approved

Re “Excuses, Excuses, Excuses� by Robert Hilburn, Aug. 12:

I am so tired of pop bashing. Why is it so difficult to accept the idea that there is a place for pure pop music as well as rock? (I happen to appreciate all six artists in the article--both the “lightweights� and the “critically profound and approved.�)

There are times when non-political and non-intellectual music can be a refreshing, feel-good, fun escape from reality!

I can’t help but wonder what Hilburn listens to at the beach . . . or is the beach too mindless an activity?

KENT JAMES

Santa Monica