Taylor Swift secures the No. 2 spot on Billboard’s list of the greatest pop stars, sparking fan speculation that Beyoncé will take the crown
Taylor Swift’s latest recognition leaves the top spot just out of reach. Billboard honored the «Lavender Haze» singer with the No. 2 position on their list of the greatest pop stars of the 21st century.
«The fact that her ranking will undoubtedly spark heated debates online is a testament to her immense influence,» the publication noted.
«Even so, Swift’s placement shouldn’t disappoint her fans for long — especially considering how much later she entered the pop scene compared to others at the top.»
At 34, Swift’s accolades include 14 Grammy Awards, 30 MTV Video Music Awards, and 39 Billboard Music Awards. She’s also wrapping up the final leg of her monumental Eras Tour, which began in March 2023.
Named TIME’s 2023 Person of the Year, Swift also reached billionaire status the same year, according to Forbes.
Billboard’s ranking, described as a celebration of «the artists who have most shaped pop stardom over the past 25 years,» has unveiled 24 names so far, including Taylor Swift.
The top 10 features Adele in 10th place, followed by Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, and Britney Spears. Rounding out the higher ranks are Lady Gaga, Drake, and Rihanna in the top five.
While the No. 1 spot remains a mystery, fans strongly believe it belongs to Beyoncé. Known as the «Break My Soul» hitmaker, Beyoncé holds the all-time record for Grammy wins with 32 awards. She also boasts 26 solo VMAs, in addition to two with Destiny’s Child and two more as part of The Carters with JAY-Z.
«Beyoncé’s unmatched talent, enduring career, and incredible versatility set her apart,» one fan commented.
Another added, «The fact that nearly every artist on this list has, at some point, acknowledged being inspired by Beyoncé speaks volumes—she absolutely deserves the No. 1 spot.»
Fans will need to exercise a bit more patience, as Billboard is set to reveal the greatest pop star of the 21st century on December 3.
