To answer your question, I never "got" Blur or Oasis. I don't really understand the whole electroclash thing i.e. Massive Attack. Most singer-songwriters drive me up a wall, with the exception of Elliot Smith and Jeff Tweedy.
I hope this is impersonal and civil, but I really challenge some "music lovers" to explore Hip-Hop beyond what is seen on MTV or mainstream radio. Most real hip-hop fans do not consider Nelly, Eminem, Master P or whatever to be hip-hop. By and large, hip-hop is a positive and creative genre with artists that are far more articulate than the average rock star. For starters, I would look into the Roots, Quasimoto, Blackalicious, Mos Def or Talib Kweli. I know the beats and rap vocal style aren't for everyone and thats fine, i'm just saying give it a chance.
Same thing with country and bluegrass! I'm not a fan of most contemporary cookie-cutter country but man, I can't imagine life without old Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, Bill Monroe...even Porter and Dolly! Just my opinion. Happy Listening!
