Swifties should pop some champagne.
Today, Billboard revealed its list of the top artists of the 21st century, sparking plenty of discussion—and a few revelations about how many people forget the ’90s don’t count as part of this century.
Unsurprisingly, Taylor Swift claimed the top spot at #1. What did catch me off guard, though, was seeing Drake secure the #2 position, ahead of heavyweights like Beyoncé (#7), Kanye West (#20), and Eminem (#5). Then again, considering Drake’s incredible, era-defining run, maybe it shouldn’t be so surprising after all. Also, the key word here is “top.”
Taylor Swift Is Named Top Artist Of The Century By Billboard
Billboard has unveiled its Top Artists of the 21st Century chart — here’s how rappers ranked ?
— Kurrco (@Kurrco) January 8, 2025
? Drake — #2
? Eminem — #5
? Ye — #20
? Nelly — #25
? Jay-Z — #29
? Lil Wayne — #30
? 50 Cent — #31
? Kendrick Lamar — #32
? Nicki Minaj — #36
? Ludacris — #39
? Future —… pic.twitter.com/JzMxVFhVfC
It’s no surprise that a list like this is bound to stir some controversy among fans. While I agree with most of the rankings, I am a bit taken aback by Kanye West’s surprisingly low position, Beyoncé not being in the top 3, and Nelly ranking higher than Jay-Z. Despite that, I think the list includes most of the essential names—though I can’t help but notice Lil Uzi Vert is missing.
What do you think of Billboard’s list? Let us know in the comments section below.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
