Robert Christgau is an American music journalist and critic, known for his influential work in the field since the 1960s. He gained prominence as the chief music critic for The Village Voice, where he developed a unique style of concise reviews and a system of grading albums with letter grades. His approach helped shape music criticism and introduced a more accessible way for readers to engage with music. In addition to his work at The Village Voice, Christgau has written for various publications and authored several books on music. He is often referred to as the "Dean of American Rock Critics" and has contributed significantly to the understanding of popular music through his insightful analysis and commentary.