Music is one of my absolute loves in life - I'm a rock kid at heart (with you there on Metallica! But Smashing Pumpkins are my all-time fave), but love discovering new stuff, so these days I tend to listen to lots of specialist radio shows rather than any specific band. Giles Peterson on BBC Radio 1 is great for dancey Latin/world stuff, one of my current faves.
For me, being "culturally aware" is a big part of personal development. I like to be aware of different genres, and able to discuss music (as well as books, films, etc.) with people no matter what their taste. In many ways, this is a good way to be more interesting and increase one's intelligence and general knowledge.
To this end, what would everyone suggest as a "musical canon" - the essential works that everyone should be aware of in order to be a well rounded person culturally?
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