By Michael specter
Billboard’s latest ranking of the greatest pop stars of the 21st century has crowned Taylor Swift as No. 2, just behind an undisclosed artist, leaving fans buzzing over who might top the list. The “Lavender Haze” singer’s placement sparked conversation, with Billboard noting, “The fact that controversy will likely tear through the internet over her being just one small space below No. 1 is just another testament to her power.”
Swift’s Stellar Career and Achievements
At 34 years old, Swift has carved an indelible mark on the music industry. With 14 Grammy Awards, 30 MTV Video Music Awards, and 39 Billboard Music Awards under her belt, Swift’s influence is undeniable. She is currently concluding the final leg of her Eras Tour, which began in March 2023. This year, she also became a billionaire, as per Forbes, and was named TIME‘s Person of the Year for 2023.
Billboard’s ranking celebrates artists who have most defined pop stardom over the past 25 years. The publication suggests that Swift’s relatively late start in the millennium, both in the music genre and overall, should soften any disappointment among her fans regarding her No. 2 placement.
The Rest of the List
While the top 10 includes a diverse range of artists such as Adele at No. 10, Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, and Britney Spears, the competition for the top spot remains heated. Lady Gaga, Drake, and Rihanna round out the top five. However, many fans are convinced that Beyoncé should be the one to claim the No. 1 position.
Beyoncé’s Case for No. 1
With 32 Grammy wins, Beyoncé holds the record for the most Grammy victories of all time, and her 26 VMA wins as a solo artist speak to her longstanding influence in the music world. Fans across social media have rallied in support of Beyoncé, arguing that her unmatched talent, cultural impact, and pioneering spirit make her the true No. 1 pop star of the 21st century.
“Beyoncé’s talent, longevity, and versatility have always been unmatched,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “The fact that every artist on that list has at some point said they were inspired by Beyoncé or something along those lines is enough to place her at #1,” another fan argued.
As the debate continues, the identity of the top pop star remains a mystery, but it’s clear that Beyoncé’s influence in the music industry has solidified her place as a cultural icon, making her a strong contender for the No. 1 spot.
