The 2010s were a transformative decade for the music industry, with the rise of streaming services, social media, and the decline of physical album sales. Amidst these changes, some artists thrived, while others struggled to adapt. In this article, we’ll delve into Billboard’s Top 100 chart for the 2010s, reviewing the decade’s most successful artists and exploring what set them apart.
The Top 10 Artists
Based on Billboard’s Top 100 chart, the top 10 artists of the 2010s include:
- The Weeknd: With an impressive 23 top 10 hits, including multiple number one singles, The Weeknd dominated the decade. His unique blend of R&B, pop, and rock resonated with audiences worldwide.
- Drake: As one of the most influential artists of the decade, Drake scored 21 top 10 hits, with 13 of those reaching the top 5. His introspective lyrics, catchy melodies, and ability to blend hip-hop, R&B, and pop made him a force to be reckoned with.
- Taylor Swift: With 20 top 10 hits, Taylor Swift cemented her status as a global superstar. Her transition from country to pop-rock, combined with her ability to craft catchy, relatable songs, earned her a loyal fan base.
- Katy Perry: Perry’s 19 top 10 hits, including massive hits like "Firework" and "Roar," showcased her versatility as a pop artist. Her music often tackled themes of empowerment, self-acceptance, and love, resonating with fans across the globe.
- Justin Bieber: Justin Bieber’s 18 top 10 hits, including several number one singles, demonstrated his growth as an artist. From his teen pop roots to his transition into mature, introspective songwriting, Bieber navigated the ups and downs of fame with remarkable agility.
- Ed Sheeran: Ed Sheeran’s 17 top 10 hits, including multiple number one singles, solidified his position as a global phenomenon. His emotive voice, introspective lyrics, and ability to blend folk, pop, and hip-hop made him a household name.
- Adele: With 16 top 10 hits, including multiple chart-topping singles, Adele dominated the decade’s soulful, emotive music landscape. Her powerful voice, introspective songwriting, and genre-bending style made her a beacon for fans seeking authenticity and depth.
- Rihanna: Rihanna’s 15 top 10 hits, including multiple number one singles, showcased her incredible range as an artist. From dancehall to pop to R&B, Rihanna explored various genres and styles, always pushing boundaries and reinventing herself.
- Bruno Mars: Bruno Mars’ 14 top 10 hits, including multiple chart-topping singles, proved his staying power as a pop sensation. His genre-bending blend of rock, pop, and funk, combined with his slick production and smooth vocals, made him a fan favorite.
- Miley Cyrus: Miley Cyrus’ 13 top 10 hits, including multiple number one singles, demonstrated her evolution as an artist. From her country-pop roots to her more experimental, pop-infused sound, Cyrus navigated the ever-changing music landscape with ease.
The Next 10
The next 10 artists on the list, in no particular order, include:
- Lady Gaga
- Rihanna
- Beyoncé
- Justin Timberlake
- Kanye West
- Bruno Mars
- Alicia Keys
- Pink
- Ariana Grande
- Kendrick Lamar
These artists not only scored significant chart success but also pushed the boundaries of their respective genres and styles. They explored themes of social justice, empowerment, and self-discovery, inspiring fans and solidifying their positions as leading figures in the music industry.
The Key to Success
So, what made these artists so successful in the 2010s? Several factors contributed to their dominance:
- Adaptability: The ability to evolve and experiment with new sounds, styles, and themes helped many artists stay relevant and exciting.
- Social media presence: Artists who utilized social media effectively, building strong connections with fans, enjoyed greater success and popularity.
- Collaborations: Strategic collaborations, both within and outside an artist’s genre, brought new audiences and exposure, boosting their profiles.
- Live performances: Outstanding live shows, whether in festivals, concerts, or music videos, showcased an artist’s energy, charisma, and musical prowess.
- Genre-bending: Artists who blended different genres, styles, and sounds created something unique and appealing, captivating fans and critics alike.
Conclusion
The 2010s were a remarkable decade for music, marked by innovation, experimentation, and global connectivity. The Top 100 artists on Billboard’s chart represent the pinnacle of success, showcasing adaptability, creativity, and dedication. As we move forward into the 2020s, it will be fascinating to see which new artists rise to the top, what trends emerge, and how the music landscape continues to evolve.
FAQs
Q: What were the most successful artists of the 2010s in terms of album sales?
A: According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), the top 5 artists of the decade in terms of album sales are:
- Drake
- Taylor Swift
- The Weeknd
- Kanye West
- Lady Gaga
Q: Who were the most successful new artists of the 2010s?
A: Some notable new artists of the decade include:
- Billie Eilish
- Lorde
- Sam Smith
- Halsey
- The 1975
Q: What were some of the most significant trends in music during the 2010s?
A: Some notable trends included:
- The rise of streaming services and playlists
- The increasing popularity of electronic and dance music (EDM)
- The resurgence of rock and roll
- The growth of Latin music and its mainstream crossover
Q: Which artists were the most award-winning of the decade?
A: According to various award ceremonies, including the Grammys, the Brit Awards, and the Billboard Music Awards, some of the most award-winning artists of the decade include:
- Adele
- Taylor Swift
- Ed Sheeran
- Kendrick Lamar
- Drake