- “Cowboy Carter” Singer Leads 25-Year Legacy of Pop Excellence
- Taylor Swift and Rihanna Take Second and Third Spots in Billboard Rankings
- Beyoncé’s Record-Breaking 32 Grammys Cement Her Place in Music History
Beyoncé has been named the greatest pop star of the 21st century by Billboard, which recognized her unparalleled influence and evolution over the past 25 years.
“Beyoncé tops our staff-chosen editorial list based on her full 25 years of influence, impact, and evolution,” said Billboard‘s Andrew Unterberger.
The music publication praised Beyoncé’s dedication to innovation and excellence, describing her as the benchmark against which all pop stars of this century are measured.
As the most Grammy-awarded artist in history with 32 wins, Beyoncé continues to make waves. Her 2024 album, Cowboy Carter, has earned her 11 nominations, solidifying expectations for further wins in January.
Beyoncé’s dominance extends to the charts, with nine No. 1 hits and 24 top 10 songs on the Billboard Hot 100. Eight of her albums, beginning with her 2003 debut solo album Dangerously in Love, have reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200. This success follows her early stardom as a member of Destiny’s Child, with 11 solo albums making it to the Billboard top 10.
Since August, Billboard has been unveiling its top 25 pop artists of the last 25 years. Taylor Swift secured the second spot, followed by Rihanna at No. 3. Adele, Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, and Drake complete the top 10. Katy Perry ranks at No. 25, with other notable artists such as Bad Bunny, The Weeknd, One Direction, Miley Cyrus, Eminem, and Usher filling the remaining slots.
According to Billboard, these rankings celebrate the artists who have most defined and exemplified pop stardom since the year 2000.
