When I listen to music, I often concentrate on the way the song has been written, hoping to learn what to do from good ones, what not to do from terrible records. I love a great songwriter.
Here are my faves:
The Beatles and much of their solo work--of course.
Elton and Bernie
Elvis Costello
Jeff Lynne
James Taylor
Becker and Fagin
Gilmour and Waters
Ask me tomorrow and my choices will change.