The Queen Reigns: Billboard Crowns Beyoncé the Greatest Pop Star of the 21st Century

To no one’s surprise, Billboard has crowned Beyoncé the greatest pop star of the 21st century.

The announcement marks another exciting celebration of the Queen’s undeniable reign as this century’s first quarter closes.

“Few artists this period can match her in any of the most critical basic categories of pop stardom – commercial success, performance abilities, critical acclaim and accolades, industry influence, iconic cultural moments – and absolutely no one can equal her in all of them,” Billboard wrote.

Beyoncé’s stats are a testament to her being deserving of the title. She has amassed 12 No. 1 singles, 10 No. 1 albums, 32 top 10 singles, and a record-breaking 32 Grammy wins – with 11 more nominations for 2025, thanks to her groundbreaking “Cowboy Carter” album.

Her legacy continues to grow as Yale University debuts a course titled “Beyoncé Makes History” in Spring 2025. Taught by African American Studies and Music Professor Daphne Brooks, the course will dive deep into Beyoncé’s music, fashion, and media, from her 2013 self-titled surprise album, which changed the way that artists deliver music to this year’s country-enthused project. Students will explore Black history and politics through her work, combining intellectual inquiry with the sheer magic of her artistry.

Professor Brooks exclaims, “[Beyoncé] is just so ripe for teaching at this moment in time,” citing her groundbreaking contributions that intertwine history, politics, and cultural life.