The 21st Century’s Top Pop Stars: Who Tops the List?
Shakira and Bad Bunny represent Spanish-language music on Billboard’s list
MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 02: Colombian singer Shakira and Puerto Rican singer Bad Bunny perform during the Pepsi Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show at Hard Rock Stadium on February 02, 2020 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Billboard magazine has been unveiling its list of the 25 Greatest Pop Stars of the Last 25 Years, celebrating the most influential artists of the 21st century. Among the latest reveals is Taylor Swift, who lands in second place, thanks to his incredible success on the charts (and almost everything she does)!
Right below him is Lady Gaga, ranked as the fifth greatest pop star of the century. Billboard highlights her “explosive debut in the 2010s, which raised the bar for all aspects of pop stardom, while her constant evolution has kept her a vital presence in the 2020s.”
Other big names on the list include Kanye West (7), Miley Cyrus (15), and the British band One Direction (22). Representing Spanish-language music are Shakira (17) and Bad Bunny (23).
Honorable Mentions for 25 More Artists
Since narrowing the list to just 25 names was no easy task, Billboard also released a list of 25 additional artists who deserve honorable mention. While these artists didn’t make the top 25, they’re still recognized for their impact. This second list isn’t ranked but presented alphabetically.
Here’s the alphabetical list: 50 Cent, Alicia Keys, Billie Eilish, Cardi B, Carrie Underwood, Chris Brown, Christina Aguilera, Doja Cat, Dua Lipa, Future, Jennifer Lopez, Kelly Clarkson, Kendrick Lamar, Kesha, Lana Del Rey, Lorde, Maroon 5, Megan Thee Stallion, Missy Elliott, Nelly, Olivia Rodrigo, P!nk, Post Malone, Sean Paul and SZA.
Who Will Take the Top 3 Spots on the List?
Based on the honorable mentions and the artists already announced, it seems likely that the number one spot will go to a female powerhouse. If we had to guess, Beyoncé might take the crown.
Here’s what we know so far:
- –
- Taylor Swift
- Rihanna
- Drake
- Lady Gaga
- Britney Spears
- Kanye West
- Justin Bieber
- Ariana Grande
- Adele
- Usher
- Eminem
- Nicki Minaj
- Justin Timberlake
- Miley Cyrus
- Jay-Z
- Shakira
- The Weeknd
- BTS
- Bruno Mars
- Lil Wayne
- One Direction
- Bad Bunny
- Ed Sheeran
- Katy Perry
Who do you think will claim the top spot in this highly anticipated ranking?