Sir, Ben Macintyre is quite right to state that politicians should stay well away from airing any views whatsoever about popular music (“Musical politicians always hit a bum note”, April 9) but to imply that they might be secretly listening to the Bee Gees and are too ashamed to admit it reveals that he, too, has much to learn about the subject.

The Brothers Gibb have been at the forefront of contemporary songwriting for more than 40 years. The list of important, respected and gifted artists, from all generations and from all over the world, who have sung their songs is staggering. Their first No 1 was in 1967; their most recent last month.

For my money they are up there with Lennon-McCartney and John-Taupin, streets ahead of many others such as U2, Oasis, Elvis Costello, Paul Weller and Arctic Monkeys, who consistently get high praise from the desperately hip. I am not saying that this lot are not fine songwriters, only that the Bee Gees are better, in some cases a lot better. In fact, if a politician did admit to loving the Bee Gees, it would probably be a vote-winner.

Sir Tim Rice

Helford, Cornwall

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