‘Three women, four people of colour, one from a continent other than Europe or North-America. It is a beginning, and for now I will accept it, but next year I expect different numbers. Next year I expect at least a 50/50 split in terms of gender and race, and at least four artists from Asia, Africa or South-America. And…by the way, all 11 you selected sing primarily in English, do you really think that is still acceptable in 2020? Like I said, I will accept it for now, but I expect serious improvements next year. Go now.’

Still a year to go, but how was he supposed to find four artists outside of Europe and North-America that would qualify for an entry on the list of best all-time musician. Sure, the push for more diversity had helped him. Half a decade ago he never really listened to Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, or all those contemporary Rap and R&B artists he was now so familiar with. And…within his circle of friends he had gained a certain reputation for his outspoken position on female rock music, calling the current decade the era of female domination. But…how much further could he take this, where would bias become unbiased and turn into a set of rule?

He quickly glanced at his 2020 list…

And quickly put it away again. So much wrong with it still. Only three still existing acts, six already dead, some for a very long time. No Asians, no Arabs, no North Africans, none from Eastern Europe even. Next year I simply have to do better, how can it be I made so many mistakes putting together a list of best musicians ever…