It’s official: Beyoncé has been named the greatest pop star of the 21st century by Billboard.
The iconic music magazine unveiled the announcement on Tuesday as part of its series celebrating artists who have defined pop stardom over the past 25 years.
“Beyoncé’s impact is immeasurable,” Billboard stated. “From her 25 years of timeless albums and singles to her unmatched influence on the industry and her peers, she embodies the pinnacle of pop music. Above all, her unparalleled ability to create iconic cultural moments cements her legacy.”
Breaking Records and Making History
Beyoncé’s career achievements are staggering. Last month, she became the most Grammy-nominated artist in history with 99 nominations, following 11 nods for her groundbreaking 2023 album Cowboy Carter. With 32 Grammy wins already under her belt, she continues to set records in the music world.
Her Billboard stats are equally impressive: Beyoncé has secured nine No. 1 hits and 24 top 10 songs on the Hot 100 chart. On the Billboard 200, eight of her albums—including her solo debut Dangerously in Love—have reached the coveted top spot.
Pop Royalty Ranked
Following Beyoncé on Billboard’s list are Taylor Swift at No. 2 and Rihanna at No. 3. The rest of the top 10 includes Drake, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, Kanye West, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and Adele, in that order.
From her Destiny’s Child days to her reign as a solo powerhouse, Beyoncé continues to redefine what it means to be a pop star, setting a standard that few can match.
