The Greatest Musical Artists Of The 2010s

Jovaughn Brown
Updated June 5, 2024 25.5K views 98 items
Ranked By
37.0K votes
3.5K voters
5 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up the artists based only on their music from 2010 to 2019.

From Kanye West and Taylor Swift to Bruno Mars and Janelle Monáe, we're ranking the best artists of the decade. This list of the top 2010s artists includes some of the most popular musicians, bands, and singers in pop, rap, country, EDM, rock, R&B, and more. The 2010s decade was filled with so many good songs and albums, but which artists stood out from the rest?   

Vote up the best artists of the 2010s, and add your favorites if they deserve to be on this list. 

Most divisive: Drake
Over 3.5K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Musical Artists Of The 2010s
  • Kendrick Lamar
    1
    1,394 votes

    A master storyteller and lyricist, this rapper took the world by storm with his thought-provoking narratives on race and society that resonated with listeners far beyond the confines of hip-hop. His technical prowess and ability to switch between rapid-fire delivery and smooth melodies helped him become one of the most respected artists in the game. As a multiple Grammy winner and Pulitzer Prize recipient, he undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the 2010s musical landscape.

  • The Weeknd
    2
    Contemporary R&B, Hip hop, Pop
    1,149 votes

    This enigmatic R&B singer catapulted to fame with his dark, moody, and mysterious sound, which quickly garnered a cult following. His falsetto voice and seamless blending of genres like pop, electronic, and hip-hop have made him a mainstay on the charts while also earning critical acclaim. Throughout the decade, he collaborated with some of the industry's biggest names, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in modern music.

  • Adele
    3
    Pop, R&B, Soul
    1,081 votes

    This powerhouse vocalist became a global phenomenon thanks to her soulful ballads and raw emotional honesty that struck a chord with listeners worldwide. With her rich, velvety voice and exceptional songwriting skills, she effortlessly bridged the gap between classic soul sensibilities and contemporary pop appeal. Her record-breaking album sales and numerous awards only further cemented her status as one of the defining artists of the decade.

  • Rihanna
    4
    R&B, Pop, Hip hop
    969 votes

    This Barbadian beauty quickly became a pop culture icon with her ever-evolving sound, bold fashion statements, and unapologetic attitude. Her versatility as an artist is showcased in her wide-ranging discography, which includes dancehall-infused hits, sultry R&B ballads, and infectious pop anthems. With millions of albums sold, numerous awards, and a successful foray into the worlds of fashion and beauty, she's solidified her status as a true queen of the 2010s.

  • Bruno Mars
    5
    Pop, Contemporary R&B, Funk
    1,163 votes

    A multi-talented entertainer known for his electrifying performances, this artist consistently delivered chart-topping hits infused with elements of funk, soul, R&B, and pop throughout the 2010s. His undeniable charisma, vocal range, and impressive dance moves have earned him comparisons to iconic performers like Michael Jackson and Prince. With countless awards under his belt and numerous collaborations with other top artists, he's proven himself as an unstoppable force in music.

  • Kanye West
    6
    Hip hop
    1,154 votes

    Already an established force in hip-hop prior to the 2010s, this controversial figure continued to push boundaries and redefine the genre throughout the decade. His innovative production techniques and ability to blend elements from various musical styles have made him one of the most influential artists of his time. Despite frequent media scrutiny and polarizing antics, he remained at the forefront of music with several critically acclaimed albums under his belt.

  • Taylor Swift
    7
    Country, Pop
    1,305 votes

    This country-turned-pop superstar dominated the charts with her catchy melodies and relatable lyrics that captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Her undeniable songwriting talent allowed her to transition seamlessly between genres while maintaining her signature storytelling style. As one of the best-selling artists of all time, she's garnered numerous accolades along with a fiercely loyal fan base that has followed her every move throughout the decade.

  • Beyoncé
    8
    R&B, Pop, Hip hop
    660 votes

    Already a household name before the start of the decade, this iconic singer only continued to soar to greater heights with her groundbreaking visual albums and show-stopping performances. Her unmatched vocal prowess and commanding stage presence have solidified her status as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. As an artist who consistently uses her platform to address social issues and uplift marginalized voices, she's left an indelible impact on both music and culture.

  • Lady Gaga
    9
    Pop, Dance, Electronic
    713 votes

    This theatrical pop sensation continued to make her mark on music throughout the 2010s by constantly reinventing herself and pushing creative boundaries. Known for her powerful vocals, avant-garde fashion, and unapologetic individuality, she's inspired countless fans to embrace their own uniqueness. From chart-topping hits to a successful acting career and numerous philanthropic endeavors, she's proven herself as a true force in entertainment.

  • Frank Ocean
    10
    Alternative hip hop, Contemporary R&B, Pop
    924 votes

    A visionary in modern R&B, this enigmatic singer-songwriter captivated audiences with his introspective lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes that defy categorization. His ability to blend soulful crooning with experimental production techniques has earned him both critical acclaim and commercial success. Despite his reclusive nature and limited output during the decade, he remains one of the most influential artists in contemporary music.

  • Lana Del Rey
    11
    Baroque pop, Dream pop, Folk
    658 votes

    This sultry chanteuse captured the hearts of indie music lovers with her nostalgic sound that evokes old Hollywood glamour while still feeling fresh and modern. Her breathy vocals, poetic lyrics, and cinematic production have made her a unique voice in contemporary pop music. Throughout the decade, she consistently released critically acclaimed albums that showcased her growth as an artist while maintaining her enigmatic persona.

  • Ariana Grande
    12
    Pop, Contemporary R&B
    768 votes

    From Nickelodeon starlet to pop princess, this pint-sized powerhouse has become one of the most recognizable voices in modern music thanks to her impressive vocal range and whistle tones reminiscent of Mariah Carey. Her catchy tunes and ability to blend genres like R&B, pop, and trap have helped her amass a loyal fan base and numerous chart-topping hits. Through her resilience in the face of personal tragedy, she's become an inspiration to many and a symbol of strength.

  • Avicii
    13
    House, Techno, Electro House
    638 votes

    This Swedish DJ and producer revolutionized electronic dance music (EDM) with his innovative approach to blending various genres like folk, pop, and country into infectious dance tracks. His melodic compositions and ability to craft memorable hooks made him one of the most sought-after talents in the industry. Tragically passing away in 2018, he left behind a lasting legacy that will continue to influence EDM for years to come.

  • Eminem
    14
    Hip hop
    733 votes

    Already a legendary figure in hip-hop before the 2010s, this iconic rapper continued to prove his relevance with several successful albums and collaborations throughout the decade. His rapid-fire delivery, intricate wordplay, and unapologetic honesty have made him one of the most respected lyricists of all time. Despite facing various controversies and personal struggles, he remained a prominent figure in music and further solidified his legacy as an influential artist.

  • Ed Sheeran
    15
    Pop, Folk
    753 votes

    This British singer-songwriter captured the hearts of millions with his heartfelt ballads, infectious pop tunes, and impressive guitar skills. His raw talent for storytelling coupled with his unique blend of folk-pop and hip-hop elements quickly propelled him to superstardom. As one of the best-selling artists in history, he's also earned numerous accolades while collaborating with some of the biggest names in music.

  • Drake
    16
    Hip hop, R&B, Pop
    804 votes

    This Canadian rapper became one of the most dominant forces in music throughout the 2010s with his genre-bending sound that seamlessly blended hip-hop, R&B, and pop. His introspective lyrics, catchy hooks, and relatable themes resonated with fans across the globe, earning him countless awards and record-breaking streaming numbers. With numerous successful albums and collaborations under his belt, he's undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the industry.

  • J. Cole
    17
    Hip hop
    446 votes

    This introspective rapper quickly gained a dedicated following with his thought-provoking lyrics and soulful production style that harkened back to the golden age of hip-hop. With his ability to tackle complex social issues while still delivering catchy hooks, he became a leading voice for conscious rap within the mainstream. As both a successful solo artist and the founder of his own record label, he's proven himself as a true force within the industry.

  • Coldplay
    18
    Alternative rock, Pop rock
    503 votes

    As one of the most enduring bands in modern music history, this British quartet continued to captivate audiences throughout the 2010s with their anthemic sound and heartfelt lyrics. Their ability to evolve and experiment with various genres while maintaining their core identity has earned them both commercial success and critical acclaim. With multiple chart-topping albums, sold-out world tours, and numerous awards, they've solidified their status as a truly iconic band.

  • Tyler, the Creator
    19
    Alternative hip hop
    546 votes

    A provocative figure in modern hip-hop, this rapper-producer began as a controversial artist known for his shock value but evolved into a highly respected musician over time. His experimental production style and introspective lyrics have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Throughout the decade, he continued to push boundaries both musically and stylistically, solidifying his status as a truly innovative force in the industry.

  • Twenty One Pilots
    20
    Alternative hip hop, Electropop, Indie Pop
    469 votes

    This genre-defying duo captured the attention of alternative music fans with their unique blend of rock, pop, electronic, and hip-hop elements. Known for their confessional lyrics and energetic live performances, they've amassed a passionate fan base that has propelled them to worldwide success. Throughout the 2010s, they released several critically acclaimed albums that showcased their versatility and growth as artists.

  • Pharrell Williams
    21
    Pop, Funk, Hip hop
    296 votes

    Already a successful producer and musician prior to the 2010s, this multi-faceted artist experienced a career resurgence during the decade thanks to his infectious hit "Happy" and numerous high-profile collaborations. His unique production style, which combines elements of pop, hip-hop, and electronic music, has made him one of the most sought-after talents in the industry. As a cultural icon with an extensive body of work and a keen eye for spotting new talent, he's left an indelible mark on modern music.

    Pharrell Williams, born on April 5, 1973, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, represents an influential figure in the entertainment industry. His multifaceted talents include singing, songwriting, and producing which have earned him recognition and accolades globally. His journey to fame began in high school where he formed a band called 'The Neptunes' with Chad Hugo, his childhood friend. The duo's unique fusion of hip-hop and pop music significantly influenced the sound of popular music during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Pharrell's relentless creativity led him to co-found Star Trak Entertainment, a record label, in the early 2000s. Around this time, he also created N.E.R.D., a band that explored rock, funk, and hip hop genres. As a producer and artist, Pharrell has collaborated with industry heavyweights including Jay-Z, Britney Spears, and Daft Punk. In 2013, Pharrell's artistry shone brightly as he released the hit single "Happy," a song that not only topped charts worldwide but also earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Beyond music, Pharrell ventured into fashion and design by launching two successful clothing lines: Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream. His influence in the fashion world is unmistakable, with his unique style setting trends globally. He's also known for his philanthropic work, notably his establishment of the charity foundation "From One Hand To AnOTHER" (FOHTA), aimed at providing educational support for underserved youth. Undoubtedly, Pharrell Williams embodies the essence of a true artistic powerhouse, constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity, while simultaneously inspiring generations with his message of positivity and individuality.
  • Daft Punk
    22
    Electro, House, Pop
    434 votes

    These enigmatic electronic music pioneers remained at the forefront of innovation throughout the 2010s with their genre-blurring sound that melded house, funk, disco, and pop influences. Their groundbreaking album "Random Access Memories" not only earned them numerous awards but also introduced their signature sound to a new generation of listeners. Despite their elusive personas hidden behind robot helmets, they've managed to leave an indelible mark on music history.

    Daft Punk is a French electronic music duo formed in Paris in 1993 by Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter. They achieved popularity in the late 1990s as part of the French house movement combining elements of house music with funk, techno, disco, rock and synthpop. They wear ornate helmets and gloves to assume robot personas in public appearances since 1999 and rarely grant interviews or appear on television. In 2013, Daft Punk released their fourth album, Random Access Memories, to acclaim; lead single "Get Lucky" reached the top 10 in the charts of 32 countries. Random Access Memories won five Grammy Awards in 2014, including Album of the Year and Record of the Year for "Get Lucky." In 2016, Daft Punk gained their first number one on the Billboard Hot 100 with the song "Starboy," a collaboration with The Weeknd. As of 2015, Daft Punk had sold over 12 million albums worldwide.
  • Katy Perry
    23
    Synthpop, Electronic music, Dance-pop
    486 votes

    This pop juggernaut dominated the charts throughout the 2010s with her catchy tunes, colorful visuals, and larger-than-life persona. Known for her powerful vocals and ability to craft memorable hooks, she became one of the best-selling artists of all time while also earning numerous accolades. With her undeniable impact on pop culture and her continued dedication to philanthropic causes, she remains an influential figure in both music and society.

  • Paramore
    24
    Alternative rock, Pop punk, Pop rock
    180 votes

    This energetic pop-punk band continued to captivate audiences throughout the 2010s with their infectious sound, emotive lyrics, and charismatic frontwoman. Known for their high-energy live performances and dedicated fan base, they've managed to stay relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape by evolving their sound over time. With multiple critically acclaimed albums under their belt, they've left an indelible mark on both the alternative and mainstream music scenes.

  • Charli XCX
    25
    Synthpop, New Wave, Pop music
    70 votes

    This British singer-songwriter made a name for herself in the 2010s with her unique blend of pop, electronic, and experimental music that pushed boundaries and challenged the conventions of mainstream pop. Known for her catchy hooks, edgy style, and fearless approach to songwriting, she's consistently delivered innovative tracks that resonated with fans and critics alike. Throughout the decade, she released several critically acclaimed albums and collaborated with numerous high-profile artists, solidifying her status as a true trailblazer in modern music.

    Charlotte Emma Aitchison, better known by her stage name Charli XCX, is an English singer and songwriter. In 2007, at the age of 14, Charli began recording her debut album on a loan granted by her parents. In 2008, she began posting songs from the album on her official Myspace. This caught the attention of a man named Chaz, who was running numerous illegal warehouse raves in London, which became her first true gigs. On 12 June 2012, Charli released her first original mixtape, titled Heartbreaks and Earthquakes, a one-track file consisting of eight songs. A second mixtape, titled Super Ultra was released in November of the same year. Charli's second studio album and debut major-label studio album, True Romance, was released on 12 April 2013, and peaked at number eighty-five on the UK Albums Chart. In 2014, Charli released the single "Boom Clap", originally from the soundtrack to the major motion picture The Fault in Our Stars. The song was an international success, peaking at number 6 on the UK Singles Chart, 8 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the top ten in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
  • Post Malone
    26
    Hip hop, Pop, R&B
    425 votes

    This genre-blurring artist skyrocketed to fame with his unique fusion of hip-hop, rock, and pop elements that appealed to a wide range of listeners. Known for his distinctive voice and memorable melodies, he consistently delivered chart-topping hits throughout the decade. Despite facing criticism from some corners of the hip-hop community, he remained undeterred in carving out his own path within the music world.

  • Tame Impala
    27
    Indie rock, Psychedelic pop
    311 votes

    This Australian psychedelic rock project led by multi-instrumentalist Kevin Parker quickly gained a devoted following thanks to their immersive soundscapes and genre-defying approach to music. Merging elements of rock, pop, and electronic music, they have consistently pushed boundaries and challenged the conventions of modern music. Throughout the decade, they released several critically acclaimed albums that showcased their evolution as artists while influencing a new wave of musicians.

  • Maroon 5
    28
    Pop, Alternative Rock
    410 votes

    This long-standing pop-rock band continued to thrive throughout the 2010s with their infectious melodies and radio-friendly sound that appealed to a wide range of listeners. Known for their catchy hooks and charismatic frontman, they consistently delivered chart-topping hits while also adapting to the ever-changing musical landscape. Their undeniable impact on pop culture was further cemented when they headlined the Super Bowl halftime show in 2019.

  • Imagine Dragons
    29
    Pop rock, Electropop, Pop
    434 votes

    This Las Vegas-based band burst onto the scene in the early 2010s with their anthemic blend of alternative rock, pop, and electronic influences that resonated with listeners worldwide. Known for their emotive lyrics and high-energy live performances, they quickly became one of the most successful bands of the decade. With multiple chart-topping hits and sold-out tours under their belt, they've proven themselves as a force to be reckoned with in modern music.

  • Lorde
    30
    Indie pop, Electronica
    324 votes

    This New Zealand-born singer-songwriter took the world by storm with her mature, introspective lyrics and atmospheric sound that defied expectations for someone so young. Her unique blend of pop, electronic, and indie influences quickly garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. Throughout the 2010s, she released two highly praised albums that solidified her status as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary music.

  • Nicki Minaj
    31
    Hip hop, Pop, Contemporary R&B
    231 votes

    This Trinidadian-born rapper quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the early 2010s thanks to her rapid-fire flow, colorful visuals, and larger-than-life persona that transcended the world of hip-hop. Known for her unique voice, impressive lyricism, and ability to switch between various styles with ease, she's consistently delivered chart-topping hits while also breaking numerous records for female rappers. With her undeniable impact on both music and pop culture, she's solidified her status as one of the most influential artists of her time.

  • Donald Glover
    32
    Alternative hip hop
    333 votes

    A true multi-hyphenate talent, this actor-turned-musician gained widespread acclaim under his stage name Childish Gambino for his innovative approach to hip-hop and genre-blurring sound. His thought-provoking lyrics, impressive vocal range, and unique production style have made him one of the most respected artists in modern music. In addition to his successful music career, he's also made a significant impact in the worlds of television and film.

  • One Direction
    33
    362 votes

    This British-Irish boy band sensation became a global phenomenon during the early 2010s thanks to their catchy tunes, charming personalities, and dedicated fan base known as "Directioners." Assembled on the reality show The X Factor, they went on to achieve massive commercial success with multiple chart-topping albums before eventually pursuing solo careers later in the decade. Despite their eventual hiatus, their influence on modern pop music remains undeniable.

  • P!nk
    34
    Pop punk, R&B
    343 votes

    This fierce pop-rock powerhouse remained a prominent figure in music throughout the 2010s thanks to her powerful vocals, emotive lyrics, and high-flying acrobatic live performances. Known for her unapologetic individuality and ability to tackle a wide range of genres, she consistently delivered chart-topping hits while also earning numerous accolades. With her undeniable impact on both music and pop culture, she's solidified her status as one of the most influential artists of her time.

  • Sia
    35
    Pop, Electropop
    287 votes

    This enigmatic singer-songwriter experienced a career resurgence during the 2010s thanks to her evocative voice and knack for crafting emotionally charged pop tunes that resonated with audiences around the globe. Her unique approach to fame—often choosing to hide her face behind elaborate wigs and masks—has only added to her mystique and intrigue. With numerous chart-topping hits as both an artist and a songwriter for others, she's left an indelible mark on the music industry.

  • Justin Timberlake
    36
    Pop, Contemporary R&B, Hip hop
    362 votes

    Already an established pop icon prior to the 2010s, this former boy band member-turned-solo star continued to make his mark on music during the decade with his infectious blend of R&B, pop, and electronic influences. Known for his smooth falsetto vocals and impressive dance moves, he consistently delivered chart-topping hits while also pursuing a successful acting career. As one of the most versatile and enduring talents in entertainment, his impact on both music and pop culture remains undeniable.

  • Linkin Park
    37
    Alternative rock, Hip hop, Alternative metal
    303 votes

    As one of the most influential bands of the 2000s, this nu-metal/rock group continued to leave their mark on the music scene throughout the 2010s by experimenting with various genres and styles. Known for their emotive lyrics and powerful live performances, they garnered a devoted fan base that remained loyal even as their sound evolved over time. Tragically losing their lead vocalist Chester Bennington in 2017, they left behind a lasting legacy that continues to influence new generations of musicians.

  • Travis Scott
    38
    271 votes

    This Houston-born rapper quickly gained notoriety in the mid-2010s with his unique blend of hip-hop, trap, and psychedelic influences that defied categorization. His innovative production style, signature ad-libs, and energetic live performances have made him one of the most exciting talents in modern music. Throughout the decade, he released several critically acclaimed albums that showcased his growth as an artist while also collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry.

  • Shawn Mendes
    39
    Contemporary R&B, Pop
    291 votes

    This Canadian singer-songwriter became a household name in the mid-2010s with his heartfelt ballads, catchy pop tunes, and undeniable charm that quickly garnered him legions of fans around the world. With his smooth vocals and impressive guitar skills, he has consistently delivered chart-topping hits while earning numerous accolades. As one of the youngest and most promising talents in modern music, he's poised to continue making waves in the industry for years to come.

  • Foo Fighters
    40
    Alternative rock, Post-grunge, Hard rock
    264 votes

    This iconic rock band led by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl continued to make waves in the music world throughout the 2010s with their anthemic sound, powerful live performances, and dedicated fan base. Known for their raw energy and ability to capture the essence of classic rock while still feeling fresh and modern, they've consistently delivered chart-topping hits and critically acclaimed albums. As one of the most enduring bands in modern music history, their impact on both the rock genre and popular culture remains undeniable.

  • OneRepublic
    41
    Pop music, Rock music, Piano rock
    95 votes

    This American pop-rock band remained a prominent figure in music throughout the 2010s thanks to their anthemic sound, emotive lyrics, and charismatic frontman who also happens to be an accomplished songwriter and producer for other top artists. Known for their ability to create memorable hooks and captivating melodies, they've consistently delivered chart-topping hits while earning numerous accolades. With multiple successful albums under their belt, they've left an indelible mark on both the alternative and mainstream music scenes.

    OneRepublic is an American pop rock band from Colorado Springs, Colorado. Formed in 2002 by Ryan Tedder and Zach Filkins, the band achieved commercial success on Myspace as an unsigned act. In late 2003, after OneRepublic played shows throughout the Los Angeles area, a number of record labels approached the band with interest, but OneRepublic ultimately signed with Velvet Hammer, an imprint of Columbia Records. They made their first album with producer Greg Wells during the summer and fall of 2005 at his studio, Rocket Carousel, in Culver City, California. The album was originally scheduled for release on June 6, 2006, but the group was dropped by Columbia two months before the album ever came out. The lead single of that album, "Apologize", was released in 2005. It received some recognition on Myspace in 2006. In 2007, OneRepublic released their debut album, Dreaming Out Loud. Its lead single "Apologize" was notably remixed by Timbaland, becoming a huge international success, reaching number one in sixteen countries, subsequently earning them a Grammy Award nomination. The second single, "Stop and Stare" mirrored its predecessor's success.
  • Red Hot Chili Peppers
    42
    Alternative Rock, Funk Metal
    237 votes

    The Getaway (2016)

    I'm with You (2011)

  • Pitbull
    43
    Latin pop, Hip hop, Reggaeton
    152 votes

    This Miami-born rapper quickly gained notoriety during the early 2010s as "Mr. Worldwide" thanks to his infectious blend of hip-hop, reggaeton, and dance music that transcended language barriers and resonated with listeners around the globe. Known for his energetic live performances and ability to collaborate with a diverse range of artists, he's consistently delivered chart-topping hits while also becoming an ambassador for his hometown. With multiple successful albums and numerous accolades under his belt, he's left an indelible mark on both music and pop culture.

  • Mitski
    44
    Indie rock, Punk rock, Folk rock
    106 votes

    Be the Cowboy (2018)

    Puberty 2 (2016)

    Bury Me At Makeout Creek (2014)

  • Halsey
    45
    Electropop, Synthpop, Indie pop
    193 votes

    Hopeless Fountain Kingdom (2017)

    Badlands (2015)

  • Calvin Harris
    46
    House, Techno, Pop
    144 votes

    This Scottish DJ and producer became one of the biggest names in electronic dance music (EDM) during the 2010s thanks to his infectious beats and knack for crafting memorable hooks that appealed to both club-goers and mainstream audiences alike. With his impressive production skills and ability to collaborate with some of the industry's top talents, he's consistently delivered chart-topping hits while also earning numerous awards. As one of the most influential figures in EDM, his impact on both the genre and popular culture remains undeniable.

  • The Chainsmokers
    47
    EDM, Pop, Electropop
    158 votes

    World War Joy (2019)

    Sick Boy (2018)

    Memories...Do Not Open (2017)

  • Charlie Puth
    48
    Pop, R&B
    194 votes

    This talented singer-songwriter gained widespread recognition during the mid-2010s with his smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and knack for crafting heartfelt pop tunes that resonated with listeners around the globe. With his impressive range and ability to seamlessly blend elements of pop, R&B, and electronic music, he quickly became one of the most exciting talents in modern music. Throughout the decade, he released several successful albums and collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry.

  • Ellie Goulding
    49
    Indie pop, Electronica
    123 votes

    Delirium (2015)

    Halcyon (2012)

    Lights (2010)

  • Zedd
    50
    Electro House, Complextro, Pop
    105 votes

    True Colors (2015)

    Clarity (2012)

  • Madonna
    51
    Pop, Electronica
    148 votes

    Madame X (2019)

    Rebel Heart (2015)

    MDNA (2012)

  • Selena Gomez
    52
    208 votes

    From Disney Channel starlet to pop sensation, this multi-talented artist captured the hearts of fans worldwide with her catchy tunes, sultry vocals, and relatable lyrics throughout the 2010s. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres like pop, dance, and R&B has helped her consistently deliver chart-topping hits while also earning numerous accolades. In addition to her thriving music career, she's continued to make an impact in film and television while also using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness.

  • Lil Wayne
    53
    Hip hop, Trap, Pop
    148 votes

    Tha Carter V (2018)

    I Am Not a Human Being II (2013)

    Tha Carter IV (2011)

  • Vampire Weekend
    54
    Indie rock, Baroque pop
    152 votes

    Father of the Bride (2019)

    Modern Vampires of the City (2013)

    Contra (2010)

  • John Legend
    55
    Contemporary R&B, Soul, Pop
    212 votes

    Darkness and Light (2016)

    Love in the Future (2013)

  • Britney Spears
    56
    Pop, Contemporary R&B, Electronica
    211 votes

    Glory (2016)

    Britney Jean (2013)

    Femme Fatale (2011)

  • JAY-Z
    57
    Hip hop
    180 votes

    Already a legendary figure in hip-hop before the start of the 2010s, this iconic rapper continued to prove his relevance with several successful albums and collaborations throughout the decade. His innovative production techniques, intricate wordplay, and unparalleled storytelling abilities have made him one of the most respected lyricists of all time. As a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for social justice issues, he's not only solidified his legacy as an influential artist but also as a powerful force within the industry and beyond.

  • Khalid
    58
    R&B, Pop
    197 votes

    Free Spirit (2019)

    American Teen (2017)

  • Muse
    59
    Alternative Rock, Electronica
    152 votes
    Muse, a renowned alternative rock band, hails from Teignmouth, Devon in the United Kingdom. Consisting of Matthew Bellamy as the lead vocalist, guitarist and primary songwriter, Christopher Wolstenholme on bass and backing vocals, and Dominic Howard on drums, Muse was formed in 1994. The trio met at their school in Teignmouth, and their shared love for music led to the formation of the band. Their unique blend of rock, electronica, classical music, and progressive rock has garnered them international acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. The band's discography is impressive, with a total of eight studio albums released. Their debut album, Showbiz, was unveiled in 1999, but it was their second album, Origin of Symmetry in 2001, that truly put them on the map. Muse continued to evolve their sound with each successive album, experimenting with various musical styles and themes. Some of their most popular songs include "Uprising," "Starlight," and "Knights of Cydonia," which showcase their dynamic range and innovative musicality. Aside from their music, Muse is known for their energetic and extravagant live performances, often incorporating elaborate stage designs and light shows. They have performed at some of the world's biggest music festivals, like Glastonbury and Coachella. Their contribution to music has not gone unnoticed, as they have received numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards for Best Rock Album. Despite the many changes in the music industry over the years, Muse has remained a consistent force, continually pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a rock band in the 21st century.
  • Future
    60
    Hip hop, Trap
    90 votes

    Future (2017)

    Evol (2016)

    DS2 (2015)