When it comes to music in the 21st century, certain names continue to dominate conversations, streaming platforms, and charts. These artists haven’t just dropped hit songs — they’ve shaped culture, influenced trends, and built fanbases that span continents. In this post, we’ll go through ten of the most popular musicians of the century so far, based on global influence, sales, streaming numbers, and cultural relevance.
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Justin Bieber’s rise from a small-town Canadian teen uploading covers on YouTube to a global superstar is one of the biggest pop success stories of the 2000s and 2010s. With hits like Baby, Sorry, Love Yourself, and Peaches, Bieber’s chart presence is nearly constant. His fanbase, known as “Beliebers,” helped turn him into a household name. Beyond music, he’s also known for his fashion, public growth, and collaborations across genres.
2. Michael Jackson
Even though most of Michael Jackson’s major work came before 2000, his impact has carried deep into the 21st century. Albums like Thriller and Bad still chart. His influence on pop music, dance, and performance continues to inspire younger artists. Jackson’s name consistently ranks in discussions about the greatest performers in music history.
3. Rihanna
Rihanna is more than a pop star — she’s a brand. From Pon de Replay to Diamonds and Work, she’s delivered hits across genres. Though she took a break from music to build her beauty and fashion empire, fans still await her next album. Her performances, fashion influence, and fearless personality have kept her at the center of global pop culture.
4. Britney Spears
Britney Spears dominated the late ‘90s and early 2000s. Tracks like …Baby One More Time, Toxic, and Oops!… I Did It Again made her the pop princess of her generation. Despite personal struggles, her impact on music and pop culture remains strong. Her fan-led #FreeBritney movement brought attention to her legal battle and showed how connected she still is to her audience.
5. Eminem
Eminem is one of the most successful rappers of all time. Known for sharp lyrics and fast delivery, he became a symbol of lyrical excellence in hip-hop. Albums like The Marshall Mathers LP and The Eminem Show are among the best-selling rap records ever. He’s won multiple Grammys and continues to chart with new music two decades into his career.
6. Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift started in country music but quickly transitioned into one of the world’s biggest pop acts. Albums like 1989, Reputation, Lover, and Midnights have broken records. Known for writing songs based on personal experiences, her connection with fans is unmatched. Swift’s re-recordings of her old albums also brought attention to music ownership and artist rights.
7. Beyoncé
Beyoncé has remained at the top of music for decades. From her Destiny’s Child beginnings to solo success with albums like Lemonade, Beyoncé, and Renaissance, she’s proven her staying power. Her performances are often called some of the best in music, and she’s been a voice for Black excellence, empowerment, and artistry.
8. Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus went from Disney Channel fame to pop stardom with Party in the U.S.A. and Wrecking Ball. Known for her bold career shifts and experimentation with genres, Cyrus has never been afraid to reinvent herself. Her latest work, including Flowers, shows maturity and growth as an artist.
9. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga broke through with her 2008 debut and changed the game with her visuals, vocals, and creativity. Songs like Poker Face, Bad Romance, and Shallow made her a chart fixture. She’s also known for acting, fashion, and advocacy. Her ability to blend pop with strong visuals keeps her relevant more than a decade after her debut.
10. Shakira
Shakira brought Latin music into the global spotlight with her unique voice and energetic performances. Hits like Hips Don’t Lie and Waka Waka reached audiences worldwide. Her blend of Spanish and English tracks helped bridge cultures, and she remains one of the best-selling Latina artists of all time.
