Chris Willman is promoted to Senior Music Writer and Chief Music Critic
Erin P. Hernandez
2 min read
Chris Willman, one of the industry’s most respected music journalists, has been promoted to senior music editor and chief music critic for Variety.
Willman is a key player in VarietyBreaking news coverage highlights country, American and roots artists, as well as tours and venues. Promotion to Chief Music Critic Recognizes His Role in Directing Varietycritical commentary on music and music-related media.
“Having been a lifelong fan of Chris Willman’s writing, it pleases me that Variety will continue to be his home,” said Shirley Halperin, Variety‘s music editor. “With this promotion, his music criticism will get the full attention it deserves.”
Willman’s promotion arrives as Variety expands its music team with the appointment of Thania Garcia as Associate Music Editor.
Since joining Variety in September 2018, Willman won nine first place awards from the Los Angeles Press Club. In 2020, the Press Club named him Entertainment Journalist of the Year.
He’s written cover stories about Taylor Swift, Brandi Carlile, Kacey Musgraves and the “Respect” pair of Jennifer Hudson and Carole King. As a critic and commentator, he weighs in on the Los Angeles concert scene, new album releases and music-based films, as well as writing reviews and feature films, including an annual Top 50 list. songs of the year.
Willman began his career as a writer for the Los Angeles Times. He spent 13 years with Entertainment Weekly as lead writer and eventually chief music critic. He has also written covers for Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter and TV Guide and has contributed to Rolling Stone, New York Magazine, Spin, Musician, Relix, Parade and other publications.
Willman is the author of the 2005 book “Rednecks & Bluenecks: The Politics of Country Music”. Willman also co-wrote “Now You Tell Me! 12 Actors Give The Best Advice They’ve Ever Received.” other artists.
Garcia previously worked for Billboard. She is a recent graduate of California State University Northridge.
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