Lead: Taylor Swift, who was the sensation of the globe with her record-breaking music talent, has been ranked number two on Billboard’s most successful pop star of the 21st century. While her fans celebrate that, many are left pondering: who could rank over her?
Taylor Swift’s Road to the Top-Almost
No one has had a career quite like Taylor Swift’s in the music industry. From country music prodigy to pop powerhouse, she’s given the world hits like Shake It Off, Blank Space, and Anti-Hero. Having sold more than 200 million records globally, her influence extends beyond music into fashion, philanthropy, and even business.
Her recent “Eras Tour” became one of the highest-grossing tours of all time, and her re-recorded albums have reshaped industry norms. With such achievements, many assumed she would claim the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s list.
“Taylor Swift is more than an artist,” said music expert Leah Carter. “She’s a cultural phenomenon who keeps redefining success.”
Despite this, Billboard placed her second, leaving fans and critics stunned.
Who Could Be No. 1?
The question that lingers on the tongue of everyone’s mouth: Who could dethrone Swift? Theories have run the gamut, but Beyoncé stands tall – a popular candidate with very valid reasons, generally heralded as one of, if not the best entertainers of all time. With her spotless voice, innovative visual feats, and stamp on culture, the Queen Bey’s résumé rivals anyone’s.
Another strong possibility is Rihanna. With a long list of chart-topping singles, her influence extends beyond music into fashion and business. Her Fenty Beauty brand revolutionized the cosmetics industry, making her a global icon.
Other names speculated include Adele and Lady Gaga. Both artists have redefined pop music with their unique styles and powerful voices.
“If Taylor is No. 2, it has to be Beyoncé or Rihanna at No. 1,” tweeted one fan.
Fans React to the Rankings
The Swifties, Taylor Swift’s passionate fanbase, have gone to social media to express their disbelief. For them, Swift’s achievements make her the obvious choice for the top spot.
“How can anyone beat Taylor? She’s breaking records every month,” one fan posted on X, formerly Twitter.
Others mentioned that her impact extends beyond music. “Taylor Swift isn’t just a singer. She’s a brand, a movement, and an inspiration,” said one user.
But other fans were more level-headed, acknowledging that music taste is always subjective. They say rankings like these are meant to start debates, not define fact.
“Whether she’s No. 1 or No. 2, she’s always at the top of our hearts,” one fan said.
What Makes a Pop Star “Greatest”?
Billboard considers chart performance, cultural impact, innovation, and overall influence for the rankings. Swift covers all of these boxes. Having reinvented her sound multiple times-from country, going to mainstream pop to alternative.
Some would argue that Beyoncé or Rihanna has better claims to the top spot. Indeed, Beyoncé’s Lemonade is considered by many one of the best albums ever, which spoke to social justice and personal growth. Rihanna has managed to combine music with business, turning herself into a cultural icon in several industries.
Being the greatest isn’t just about sales,” music critic Sarah Lopez said. “It’s about changing the game and shaping the culture.”
A Debate Worth Having
The announcement has reignited debates over what makes a pop star truly legendary: the ability to top charts or creating moments that transcend music.
Taylor Swift’s fans say her accomplishments speak for themselves. But fans of other artists say Beyoncé and Rihanna have made equally profound marks on culture.
These debates illustrate how difficult it is to rank artists in a subjective art form like music.
“At the end of the day, music touches people differently,” said culture writer Andy Hall. “Lists like these are just a snapshot of the conversation.”
Why These Rankings Matter
Rankings like Billboard’s influence how artists are perceived and remembered. Being named the greatest pop star of the 21st century is more than a title—it’s a recognition of lasting impact.
For Taylor Swift, her second-place finish is still a testament to her dominance. Few artists can match her versatility, from writing deeply personal lyrics to delivering arena-sized pop anthems.
Yet, the competition is fierce. Beyoncé, Rihanna, Adele, and Lady Gaga all bring unique qualities that make them deserving contenders.
“This isn’t about who’s better,” said industry analyst Mark Bennett. “It’s about celebrating the diversity of talent we’ve had in this century.”
Conclusion:
The fact that Taylor Swift is ranked No. 2 for the greatest pop star of the 21st century is an honor and a point of controversy. Her devoted fans vehemently believe she should hold the number one spot, but this announcement has sparked good and needed discussions about what defines greatness in music.
As the music world waits with bated breath for Billboard to reveal the No. 1 name, one thing is sure: Whatever ranking Taylor Swift gets, her legacy remains intact and untouched.
And so, the question stands: Will it be Beyoncé? Rihanna? Another? Let’s hear your speculations while waiting for the final reveal!
Who are Billboard’s greatest pop stars of the 21st century?
Here’s the full list of Billboard’s picks so far for the greatest pop stars of the 21st century:
- 25. Katy Perry
- 24. Ed Sheeran
- 23. Bad Bunny
- 22. One Direction
- 21. Lil Wayne
- 20. Bruno Mars
- 19. BTS
- 18. The Weeknd
- 17. Shakira
- 16. Jay-Z
- 15. Miley Cyrus
- 14. Justin Timberlake
- 13. Nicki Minaj
- 12. Eminem
- 11. Usher
- 10. Adele
- 9. Ariana Grande
- 8. Justin Bieber
- 7. Kanye West
- 6. Britney Spears
- 5. Lady Gaga
- 4. Drake
- 3. Rihanna
- 2. Taylor Swift
