On music, I'm not sure i would apply the same standards as I would to other art forms. Writing is intellectual, regardless of what novelists tell you, because it requires readers to make judgments (on how to use the symbols) after every line and phrase. Paintings and other visual arts are physical representations of a persons view of reality, a window into another persons mind (and hence intellectual). But music seems a purely evocative and sensuous medium. I can listen to a song sung in a language I don't understand and still be moved by the song; it's melody, it's rhythms and tone can still speak to me, whereas a novel written in a language that I can't understand is worthless to me unless someone else translates it or I learn the language. Music is supposed to evoke emotions and feelings. I just don't see how a musician can be considered a sell-out when they go commercial. The musicians we call "sell-outs" are artists who have decided they will not continue to make the same music that you like for the rest of their life.
A popular book is like a charismatic person who is generally well-liked because he has personality traits that are considered desirable. My favorite books are the ones that feel like they have been written specifically to me, instead of generally for everyone, like i have met a kindred spirit. These are the books that may have traits that are generally not considered all that desirable. Maybe the book is a little shy, not giving away anything too easily. Maybe the book is a little cranky, having fits and bouts of unwieldy writing. Maybe the book is a little too weird, or doesn't quite follow conventions like everyone expects a good book to. Maybe the book is a little rude, or insensitive, maybe it has a quirky sense of humor, or comes off as distant and aloof. I love these books because they have personality, because they don't follow every rule and convention, because they don't wear name brand clothes and speak with the cool kids slang, because they are a little awkward and goofy. A popular book is a fun and safe acquaintance. A popular book is good for parties and one night stands. A forgotten or overlooked book is often a potential soul mate, something that will stay will you for the rest of your life.
