This is the second year in a row Spotify has named Swift Global Top Artist of the Year. PHOTO: FILE
PUBLISHED
January 10, 2025
Billboard’s list of the Top 10 Artists of the 21st Century is a celebration of musical influence, chart dominance, and consistency. As we approach the end of 2024, this list takes into account an artist’s impact on the Billboard 200 and Hot 100 charts, starting from January 1, 2000, to December 28, 2024. These rankings reflect not only album sales and streams but also the enduring popularity of the songs that have shaped modern music. It’s a testament to the artists whose careers have withstood the test of time, evolving trends, and changing listener preferences.
Billboard’s Top Artists, along with the Top Billboard 200 Albums and Top Hot 100 Songs of the 21st Century, are based on chart performance across the specified period. The ranking system gives a nod to the artists who have left the most significant mark in both album sales and chart hits over the years.
10.Usher
Reuters
Known for his smooth vocals and groundbreaking hits, Usher has been a dominant figure in the R&B scene for over two decades. His influence reached new heights with his 2004 album Confessions, which cemented his status as an icon. Hits like Yeah! and U Got It Bad have made Usher a chart fixture, continually finding success on the Hot 100.
9.Bruno Mars
AFP
With his timeless blend of pop, funk, and R&B, Bruno Mars has redefined modern pop music. His high-energy performances and catchy melodies—highlighted in hits like Uptown Funk and Just the Way You Are—have earned him a spot in the top 10. Mars’ ability to keep evolving his sound while staying true to his retro-inspired style is key to his lasting popularity.
8.Justin Bieber
From teen heartthrob to global superstar, Justin Bieber’s career has been defined by his ability to reinvent himself with each album. With hits like ‘Baby’ and ‘Sorry’, he has racked up major chart successes, with ‘Purpose’ and ‘Changes’ showcasing his growth as both an artist and a person. Bieber continues to be a staple on the Billboard charts and a go-to for collaboration.
7.Beyoncé
Instagram/ @beyonce
Queen Bey’s impact on music, fashion, and culture is undeniable. Beyoncé has continually pushed the boundaries of artistry with each release, from the groundbreaking Lemonade to the chart-topping Single Ladies and Crazy In Love. Her ability to blend various genres and create empowering anthems has made her one of the most influential figures of the 21st century.
6.The Weeknd
With his signature voice and genre-defying sound, The Weeknd has become one of the defining pop icons of the 21st century. Known for hits like Blinding Lights and The Hills, his ability to mix R&B, pop, and electronic music has earned him major chart success and a dedicated fan base. His innovative work continues to shape the future of music.
5.Eminem
Reuters
The undisputed king of rap for many, Eminem has been a cultural force since the early 2000s. His raw lyricism and fearless approach to addressing personal and social issues in songs like Lose Yourself and Stan have made him a staple on the Hot 100 and Billboard 200. His influence on both hip hop and pop music is immeasurable, earning him his place among the best of the century.
4.Post Malone
Reuters
Post Malone has carved out a unique space in the music industry, blending elements of hip-hop, rock, and pop into his own signature sound. His breakout hit White Iverson set the stage for a string of chart-topping albums like Hollywood’s Bleeding and Beer Bongs & Bentleys. With his genre-blending style and massive streaming numbers, Post Malone continues to be a chart powerhouse.
3.Rihanna
From Umbrella to Diamonds, Rihanna has continuously dominated the charts with her blend of pop, R&B, and dancehall influences. Her career has been one of constant reinvention, with each album showcasing her growth as both a performer and a business mogul. Rihanna’s ability to top the Billboard charts and break records made her one of the most influential artists of the 21st century.
2.Drake
AFP
With a staggering number of chart-topping singles and albums, Drake has cemented himself as one of the most commercially successful artists in modern history. From Hotline Bling to God’s Plan, his fusion of rap, R&B, and dancehall has earned him a massive following and countless Billboard records. Drake’s adaptability and consistent dominance make him a fixture at the top of the charts.
1.Taylor Swift
The undeniable queen of the 21st century, Taylor Swift has not only redefined what it means to be a successful artist but has also changed the game in terms of artist empowerment. Her ability to move between genres—from country to pop to indie folk—while maintaining chart-topping success is unprecedented. Hits like Love Story, Shake It Off, and All Too Well continue to dominate playlists, and she has reimagined the relationship between artists and their fans, particularly through her re-recordings of her earlier work. Taylor Swift’s influence extends beyond music, making her the most iconic artist of the century so far.
