Jay-Z Lands on Billboard’s “Top Songwriters of the Century” List—Here’s Who Ranked Above Him

Billboard has released its first update in a week-long countdown of the top songwriters of the 21st century, and Jay-Z landed at number 25.

Ranking higher than Jay-Z are Kanye West, Sean Garrett, Fergie, and Jermaine Dupri, showing just how competitive the list is among the biggest music creators of the century. The ranking highlights the writers with the most No. 1 hits on the Hot 100 from January 1, 2000, through December 28, 2024.

According to Billboard, the list focuses on writers who led the chart at least six times during that period. Jay-Z, with six No. 1s, is recognized for his contributions, most notably Beyoncé’s “Baby Boy,” featuring Sean Paul, which spent nine weeks at the top.

Billboard explained the methodology, noting that the list celebrates writers who consistently shaped the music of the century’s first 25 years. While the top spots are dominated by writers with multiple No. 1 hits, Jay-Z’s placement shows his consistent influence on the charts over the past 25 years.

The announcement has sparked conversation online, with fans debating his spot on the list and weighing in on his impact compared to other music icons. Billboard will continue unveiling the rest of the top 25 songwriters throughout the week, giving music fans a closer look at the creative minds behind some of the biggest hits of the century.