Top 100 Pop Artists of the 2000s

The beginning of the 2000s was a jump-off decade for pop music as it fused the remnants of 90s teen pop with new imagination owing to technological advancements, globalization, and changing sociocultural preferences. In the wake of iTunes and YouTube, the music industry made more revenue through digital downloads. Pop singers changed their sound and style to fit new audiences. The genre grew to include R&B, Hip-hop, electronic music, and Latin, from soulful ballads to energetic dance anthems. Beyoncé, Britney Spears, and Rihanna shattered the glass ceilings of female stardom while one half of the dynamic duo Justin Timberlake and Usher claimed solo dominance after rising through group fame. While boy and girl bands continued to flourish, they were outnumbered by solo acts. Billboard’s Year-End Hot 100 ranking of the entire decade is a powerful indication not only for the commercially successful musicians, but also for those that shaped the musical identity of the period. This chart showcases the musicians that made anthems and had timeless appeal across age groups and survived the test of time. The celebratory list highlights what these musicians need to achieve to be placed in the Top 100 Pop Artists of the 2000s; ultimately, carving the decade in stone and defining mainstream music in the process.

1. Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey is a pop and R&B powerhouse who dominated the 2000s charts with her stunning five-octave range and soulful ballads. She scored multiple No.1 singles, including the record-breaking We Belong Together, which spent 14 weeks atop the Hot 100. Her emotive songs and vocal acrobatics helped define the decade’s adult contemporary pop sound and inspired countless vocalists with her powerhouse performances.

2. Beyoncé

Beyoncé emerged as one of the era’s premier pop/R&B stars, both as the lead singer of Destiny’s Child and on her solo albums. She delivered explosive hits like Crazy in Love, Irreplaceable, and Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) that topped radio and club charts. With her powerful voice, dance routines and chart-topping records, Beyoncé became a defining female artist of the decade and a cultural icon.

3. Usher

Usher is an R&B/pop vocalist whose smooth croon and dance moves ruled the 2000s. He scored huge hits like Yeah!, Burn and Confessions Part II, often featuring slick production and catchy hooks. His album Confessions spawned multiple Top 10 singles and helped him dominate radio for years. Usher’s blend of romantic ballads and club anthems kept him at the top of pop charts throughout the decade.

4. Justin Timberlake

After rising to fame with NSYNC, Justin Timberlake became a pop superstar in the 2000s. His solo hits such as Cry Me a River, SexyBack and Mirrors mixed R&B, pop and dance influences. Timberlake’s innovative production, charismatic performances and string of radio hits cemented him as a leading male pop artist. His ability to blend catchy melodies with smooth vocals defined much of the era’s teen and mainstream pop.

5. Britney Spears

Britney Spears maintained her status as the “Princess of Pop” into the 2000s with numerous chart-topping singles. Songs like Oops!… I Did It Again, Toxic and Womanizer were massive radio hits that featured her catchy pop hooks and dance-pop style. Britney’s albums consistently sold millions and she retained a huge teen pop fanbase. Her influence on young pop and provocative image made her one of the decade’s most talked-about figures.

6. Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys brought soulful R&B and piano-driven pop into the mainstream throughout the 2000s. She broke through with Fallin’, a chart-topping hit showcasing her rich vocals and classical piano training. Keys followed with hits like If I Ain’t Got You and No One, earning multiple Grammy Awards. Her mature blend of pop, R&B and soul, along with her success on radio and charts, made her one of the decade’s top pop/R&B stars.

7. Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera was a defining pop diva of the 2000s, known for her powerful vocals and ballads. She scored huge pop hits such as Beautiful, Genie in a Bottle, and the dance anthem Dirrty. Aguilera’s range and showmanship, plus successful albums, kept her high on the charts. Her career throughout the decade was marked by bold reinventions and strong female empowerment themes, influencing the pop landscape with her jaw-dropping vocal runs.

8. Rihanna

Rihanna emerged in the mid-2000s as a dominant force in pop and dance music. She delivered a string of global hits like SOS, Umbrella, Disturbia and Diamonds that combined pop with Caribbean and dance influences. By continuously releasing club anthems and ballads, Rihanna climbed the charts repeatedly. Her edgy style and catchy, radio-friendly songs made her one of the decade’s biggest pop stars and a trendsetter in music and fashion.

9. Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson rose from American Idol to become one of the 2000s’ biggest pop-rock stars. Her breakout hits Since U Been Gone and Behind These Hazel Eyes showcased her strong rock-tinged pop sound and powerful voice, both dominating radio and MTV. Clarkson’s empowering lyrics and catchy melodies won her multiple Grammy Awards. She consistently had Top 10 Billboard singles in the early 2000s, marking her as a defining female pop artist of the era.

10. Madonna

Pop icon Madonna continued her chart success into the 2000s with reinventions of her sound. She released major hits like Music and Hung Up, which embraced dance-pop and dominated global charts. Her albums consistently sold millions, and she set trends with her innovative videos and tours. Even decades into her career, Madonna’s ability to adapt to contemporary pop styles and deliver hit singles kept her among the most influential artists in the pop genre of the 2000s.

11. Destiny’s Child

Destiny’s Child was a powerhouse pop-R&B girl group of the early 2000s, launching Beyoncé’s career. They scored mega-hits like Say My Name, Independent Women (Part I) and Bootylicious that blended catchy pop hooks with soulful harmonies. The group dominated charts worldwide, selling out arenas and producing some of the decade’s definitive female anthems. Their polished vocals and empowering lyrics made them trendsetters in the pop and R&B crossover scene.

12. Shakira

Shakira brought Latin-influenced pop to a global audience in the 2000s with her energetic style. Her bilingual smash Hips Don’t Lie was a worldwide No.1 hit, and other singles like Whenever, Wherever and She Wolf reached top of the charts. Shakira’s fusion of pop, rock and world rhythms, along with her charismatic dance moves, made her an international pop star. Her success on the Hot 100 and global charts cemented her status as one of the most influential pop artists of the decade.

13. Black Eyed Peas

The Black Eyed Peas transitioned from alternative hip-hop to mainstream pop in the 2000s, scoring massive hits. Songs like Where Is the Love?, My Humps and I Gotta Feeling were global chart-toppers blending dance beats with pop hooks. Fronted by Fergie on key tracks, the group’s catchy anthems dominated radio and clubs. Their album Monkey Business and The E.N.D. produced multiple hit singles, making them one of the decade’s most commercially successful pop acts.

14. Coldplay

Coldplay became one of the 2000s’ most successful rock-influenced pop bands. Their gentle ballads and anthems like Yellow, The Scientist and Viva la Vida earned international acclaim and heavy airplay. By blending emotional lyrics with uplifting pop-rock melodies, Coldplay topped charts around the world and sold millions of albums. Their constant evolution (e.g., adding electronic elements on later albums) kept them on the charts, making them a staple pop-rock act of the decade.

15. Maroon 5

Maroon 5 emerged in the early 2000s with a fresh pop-rock sound. Led by Adam Levine, they scored big hits like This Love, She Will Be Loved, and Moves Like Jagger, which blended rock guitars with danceable rhythms. Their debut album Songs About Jane and subsequent records spawned multiple Top 10 singles on the Hot 100. Maroon 5’s radio-friendly mix of pop, funk and rock ensured they remained a chart-topping band throughout the decade.

16. Backstreet Boys

The Backstreet Boys, already pop superstars by the late 1990s, maintained strong chart presence into the 2000s. Songs like Shape of My Heart and Incomplete were radio hits that showcased their harmonies and emotive pop style. Even as musical tastes shifted, the band continued topping sales charts and touring successfully. Their polished pop sound and loyal fan base kept them among the decade’s most enduring pop acts, charting across the early 2000s.

17. NSYNC

NSYNC was one of the decade’s biggest boy bands, combining pop with dance and R&B influences. They churned out hit singles like Bye Bye Bye, It’s Gonna Be Me and Pop, which topped radio playlists and MTV. Their albums sold in the millions, and the group’s synchronized dance routines became pop culture staples. NSYNC’s catchy hooks and Justin Timberlake’s charismatic vocals helped make them a defining pop act of the early 2000s.

18. Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez merged pop with R&B and Latin influences to become a major 2000s star. She released chart-toppers like If You Had My Love, Jenny from the Block and Get Right, which combined sultry vocals with danceable production. Beyond music, her fame as an actress boosted her public profile. Lopez’s broad appeal and string of Top 10 hits on the Hot 100 solidified her place as one of the era’s most successful crossover pop entertainers.

19. Pink

Pink (P!nk) brought an edgy attitude to pop music in the 2000s. Hits like Get the Party Started, Just Like a Pill and So What mixed rock guitars with pop hooks and earned heavy radio play. Her powerful vocals and rebellious persona set her apart from teen pop of the time. Consistently releasing hit singles and albums, Pink became one of the top-charting female artists of the decade, known for her energetic style and anthemic songs.

20. No Doubt

No Doubt fused ska, rock and pop into several hit singles in the early 2000s. With Gwen Stefani as frontwoman, songs like Hey Baby, Hella Good and Underneath It All received major airplay and chart success. These tracks balanced dance-pop production with the band’s colorful sound. Even after their 1990s breakthrough, No Doubt’s turn-of-the-century releases kept them on the charts and helped define pop-rock trends of the decade.

21. Gwen Stefani

As the lead singer of No Doubt and as a solo artist, Gwen Stefani scored pop hits throughout the 2000s. Her solo singles Hollaback Girl, Rich Girl and Wind It Up blended pop, hip-hop and Latin flavors, becoming radio staples. Stefani’s distinctive style and energetic delivery made her a pop star in her own right. Her success on pop charts, both solo and with No Doubt, established her as one of the decade’s influential female artists.

22. Nelly Furtado

Nelly Furtado combined pop, R&B and world music influences in the 2000s. She enjoyed major hits like I’m Like a Bird, Promiscuous and Say It Right, showcasing her versatile voice. Her album Loose produced multiple chart-topping singles, and she earned Grammy recognition. Furtado’s crossover of styles (from folk-pop to dance-pop) and her presence on pop and rhythmic radio made her a prominent figure in the decade’s pop music scene.

23. Natasha Bedingfield

Natasha Bedingfield brought a feel-good pop sound to radio with her catchy hooks. Her songs Unwritten and Pocketful of Sunshine were U.S. hits that highlighted her warm vocals and positive lyrics. These tracks dominated the charts and became popular anthems. Bedingfield’s blend of uplifting pop and singer-songwriter charm resonated with audiences, making her one of the memorable pop artists of the mid-2000s.

24. Avril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne was a pop-rock teen idol who achieved international success. Her singles Complicated, Sk8er Boi and Girlfriend mixed punky guitars with pop melodies and topped charts worldwide. Lavigne’s tomboy style and catchy songs set her apart from other female artists. With a string of hit albums and radio singles, she became one of the era’s defining young pop-rock stars and inspired many younger artists.

25. Ashanti

Ashanti was a dominant R&B/pop singer in the early 2000s. She delivered hit singles like Foolish and collaborations like Always on Time with Ja Rule, which both topped the Hot 100. Her smooth vocals and catchy hooks ensured her songs were radio favorites. As a songwriter and performer, Ashanti’s consistent success on pop and R&B charts made her one of the decade’s top female artists in the pop-soul crossover genre.

26. Mario

Mario gained pop/R&B fame with his silky voice and catchy songs. His breakout hit Let Me Love You was a No.1 pop single, and follow-ups like Just a Friend were also chart successes. Mario’s blend of romantic ballads and danceable tracks resonated on pop radio. His smooth delivery and hit singles made him a prominent teen pop/R&B singer of the 2000s.

27. Pussycat Dolls

The Pussycat Dolls became a pop phenomenon with their dance-centric hits. Songs like Don’t Cha, Buttons and Stickwitu were international chart-toppers featuring bold beats and catchy choruses. With Nicole Scherzinger as lead singer, the group’s sexy image and pop-R&B fusion found heavy rotation on radio and MTV. The Pussycat Dolls’ string of hit singles and albums made them one of the decade’s top girl groups in pop music.

28. Celine Dion

Celine Dion, already an established superstar, continued her success into the 2000s. Her powerful ballad I’m Alive and the dance-pop single A New Day Has Come were Top 10 hits. Dion’s emotional pop vocals appealed to adult contemporary and pop audiences alike. Her polished style and sales success on both radio charts and album sales reaffirmed her status as one of the decade’s leading vocalists in pop.

29. Fergie

Fergie, as the female lead of the Black Eyed Peas and as a solo artist, scored several major hits. Her solo singles London Bridge, Glamorous and Big Girls Don’t Cry all topped the charts with catchy pop/hip-hop beats. These songs showcased her brash personality and melodic vocal style. Fergie’s combination of hip-hop flair and pop hooks made her one of the most successful solo pop artists of the late 2000s.

30. Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga burst onto the scene in 2008 with an electro-pop style that revitalized the charts. Her debut singles Just Dance and Poker Face were worldwide smash hits, both reaching No.1. Known for her theatrical image and catchy dance anthems, Gaga quickly became a dominant pop star. Her album The Fame delivered hit after hit, influencing the late-decade pop sound with its house and synth-pop vibes.

31. Gnarls Barkley

Gnarls Barkley, the duo of CeeLo Green and Danger Mouse, had one colossal hit with Crazy in 2006. That single was a ubiquitous pop hit that topped charts internationally. Its retro-soul style set it apart from other 2000s pop songs. Though they released few other hits, Crazy’s success and unique sound left a mark on pop music, showcasing that a one-hit group could still become a pop culture phenomenon in the decade.

32. Leona Lewis

British singer Leona Lewis became a pop sensation with her debut single Bleeding Love in 2007. The power ballad spent multiple weeks at No.1 on the Hot 100 and around the world. Lewis’s strong vocals and emotional delivery continued on her debut album, which produced several pop hits. Her blend of pop balladry and soul helped her break into the American market, making her one of the few British solo acts to score major U.S. hits in the 2000s.

33. Ciara

Ciara brought energetic dance and R&B vocals to pop radio. Her debut single Goodies was a No.1 hit featuring an infectious beat, followed by club favorites like 1, 2 Step and Oh. Ciara’s combination of sultry voice and dynamic dance routines led to multiple hit singles. As a result, she became known as the “First Lady of Crunk&B” and one of the decade’s leading female pop/R&B artists.

34. Vanessa Carlton

Singer-songwriter Vanessa Carlton had one breakout hit in the 2000s: the piano-pop ballad A Thousand Miles. The song’s memorable piano riff and catchy chorus made it a Top 5 pop single in 2002. It received heavy radio play and became an iconic pop song of the era. While Carlton did not duplicate that level of success, A Thousand Miles remains a signature pop hit of the decade.

35. Ashlee Simpson

Ashlee Simpson was a teen pop-rock artist who found commercial success in the mid-2000s. Her debut single Pieces of Me and follow-up La La were Top 10 hits that highlighted her pop-punk style. With a blend of rock guitars and catchy pop hooks, Simpson’s music resonated with younger audiences. She regularly appeared on pop charts and teen TV, making her one of the era’s prominent youth pop artists.

36. Hilary Duff

Actress-turned-singer Hilary Duff was a prominent pop star in the 2000s. Hits like So Yesterday and Come Clean topped pop radio with their teenage perspective and pop-rock sound. As a Disney Channel star, her music appealed to a teen audience and consistently produced charting singles. Duff’s polished pop rock songs and image made her one of the decade’s top teen pop icons.

37. 98 Degrees

The boy band 98 Degrees achieved mainstream success in the early 2000s. Singles like The Hardest Thing and Give Me Just One Night (Una Noche) made the Top 10 with their romantic pop balladry. Combining R&B harmonies with contemporary pop production, 98 Degrees catered to a pop audience after the boy band craze of the late 90s. Their smooth vocals and sentimental songs earned them multiple hit singles on adult contemporary and pop charts.

38. O-Town

O-Town was a pop boy band formed on the reality TV show “Making the Band.” They scored pop chart success with ballads like All or Nothing and Liquid Dreams, which appealed to a late-teen audience. These singles featured sweet harmonies and polished pop arrangements. Although the band had a relatively brief run, their presence in the early 2000s teen pop scene and their top-charting single All or Nothing marked them as one of the decade’s notable pop groups.

39. John Legend

John Legend is a soulful singer-songwriter whose heartfelt pop ballads brought him fame in the 2000s. His debut single Ordinary People was a Top 20 hit that showcased his piano-driven R&B style. Legend’s smooth voice and timeless songwriting earned him critical acclaim and radio play. Throughout the decade he continued to chart with romantic pop-soul songs, solidifying his role as a leading male vocalist bridging R&B and pop.

40. John Mayer

John Mayer found major success as a pop-rock guitarist and singer in the 2000s. He delivered hit singles like Your Body is a Wonderland and Daughters, combining lyrical songwriting with accessible pop melodies. Mayer’s bluesy guitar style and confessional lyrics resonated with adult pop audiences, earning him multiple Grammy Awards. His consistent airplay on adult contemporary and pop radio, along with strong album sales, made him one of the decade’s standout singer-songwriters.

41. Akon

Akon became a defining pop-R&B star in the mid-2000s with his distinctive voice and smooth style. He scored hits like Lonely and Don’t Matter, which crossed over into pop charts worldwide. Akon’s collaborations with other pop acts and his catchy hooks made his music ubiquitous on radio. His blend of R&B melodies and club beats, along with a string of hit singles, kept him prominent on the pop charts throughout the decade.

42. Colbie Caillat

Singer-songwriter Colbie Caillat brought a laid-back acoustic pop vibe to mainstream radio. Her breakout hit Bubbly topped adult contemporary charts and became a pop radio staple with its warm, catchy melody. Subsequent singles like Realize and Lucky (a duet with Jason Mraz) continued her success. Caillat’s breezy, feel-good songwriting and gentle vocals resonated widely, making her one of the era’s most successful singer-songwriters in pop.

43. Jason Mraz

Jason Mraz blended pop, rock and folk into chart-friendly hits in the 2000s. His breakout single The Remedy (I Won’t Worry) and later hit I’m Yours were radio favorites that showcased his breezy, feel-good style. I’m Yours in particular became one of the decade’s biggest pop hits, topping radio and sales charts globally. Mraz’s light-hearted melodies and positive lyrics earned him a strong presence on adult pop radio.

44. Sean Paul

Sean Paul brought dancehall and reggae-infused pop to mainstream charts. His infectious hits Get Busy, Temperature and Baby Boy (featuring Beyoncé) dominated radio playlists. By fusing Caribbean rhythms with pop hooks, Sean Paul became one of the most-played artists on pop radio. His energetic style and repeated chart-toppers made him a key figure in popularizing dancehall-pop in the 2000s, earning multiple No.1 singles and album sales.

45. Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus transitioned from Disney Channel fame to pop music success by the late 2000s. Her single Party in the U.S.A. was a massive pop hit in 2009, showcasing her playful pop-rock style. Cyrus’s early songs blended teen pop with country/rock elements, appealing to a younger audience. Even as her career evolved, her initial albums produced Top 10 radio hits, cementing her as a leading young pop singer at decade’s end.

46. Enrique Iglesias

Enrique Iglesias continued his Latin pop crossover success into the 2000s. His English-language hits such as Hero and Escape became Top 10 pop singles, while Spanish hits topped Latin charts. Known for his romantic ballads and dance tracks, Iglesias maintained a strong presence on pop radio. He frequently charted on the Hot 100 and Latin charts alike, making him one of the decade’s most successful international pop stars.

47. Kylie Minogue

Kylie Minogue enjoyed global pop success in the 2000s. Her dance-pop anthem Can’t Get You Out of My Head was a worldwide smash, reaching the Top 10 in the U.S. and topping charts elsewhere. Minogue’s slick electropop sound and glamorous style kept her in the pop spotlight. With multiple hit singles and albums throughout the decade, she cemented her reputation as a dance-pop icon on the international stage.

48. James Blunt

James Blunt made a splash with his heartfelt pop ballad You’re Beautiful, which became a global hit in 2005. This emotional song topped charts and turned Blunt into a household name. He continued to release successful singles like 1973 and Goodbye My Lover, characterized by his soft voice and acoustic pop sound. Blunt’s melodic songwriting and radio success in the mid-2000s made him one of the more memorable male pop artists of the era.

49. Michelle Branch

Michelle Branch was a pop-rock singer-songwriter who gained mainstream attention with Everywhere and All You Wanted. These early 2000s singles featured catchy guitar-pop melodies and resonant vocals. Branch’s music resonated on radio, and her debut album sold millions. With a blend of teen-pop lyrics and alternative rock instrumentation, she remained a consistent presence on pop charts during the early part of the decade.

50. Macy Gray

Macy Gray brought a distinctive raspy soul-pop sound to the 2000s. Her debut single I Try was a massive worldwide hit, highlighting her unique voice and jazzy pop style. Although not all her later songs topped the charts, Gray’s first album and follow-up produced radio singles that kept her well-known. I Try alone gave her major chart success, making her one of the most recognizable female vocalists of the decade.

51. Toni Braxton

R&B singer Toni Braxton continued her success from the 90s into the early 2000s. Her single He Wasn’t Man Enough became a Top 10 pop hit in 2000, demonstrating her enduring appeal. Braxton’s rich vocals and emotional delivery on ballads kept her music popular on adult contemporary and R&B charts. She remained a significant figure in pop/R&B crossover, with her elegant style and chart hits extending into the decade.

52. Anastacia

Anastacia was a powerful pop-rock singer who achieved international success in the early 2000s. Her hits Left Outside Alone and I’m Outta Love featured her raspy voice and catchy hooks, becoming pop chart staples in Europe and receiving U.S. airplay. Known for her blend of rock energy and pop melody, Anastacia stood out in the mid-2000s. Her strong vocal style and memorable choruses earned her continued chart success and a loyal fanbase.

53. Kelly Rowland

Kelly Rowland, a member of Destiny’s Child, built a solo career with pop and R&B hits. She scored Top 10 pop singles like Work and charted with collaborations such as Dilemma (Nelly feat. Rowland). Her solo music combined R&B rhythms with pop-friendly hooks, earning airplay on pop stations. Rowland’s smooth voice and continued presence on the charts after Destiny’s Child’s peak made her a notable solo pop artist in the decade.

54. LFO

LFO was a teen pop band best known for their novelty hit Summer Girls. The catchy, upbeat song became a summer anthem in 1999 and peaked at No.3 in early 2000, carrying the band’s presence into the new decade. While they didn’t have many more big pop hits, Summer Girls’ lasting popularity and radio play secured LFO a spot in pop history as one of the decade’s one-hit wonders with a distinctly ’00s pop sound.

55. Keri Hilson

Keri Hilson was an R&B/pop singer-songwriter who found chart success later in the decade. Her singles Knock You Down (featuring Kanye West and Ne-Yo) and Return the Favor were Top 10 hits that combined R&B melodies with modern pop production. Working often as a songwriter, Hilson brought a mix of hip-hop and pop sensibility to her tracks. Her polished urban pop sound and charting singles made her a recognizable pop-R&B artist of the late 2000s.

56. Kelis

Kelis brought an eclectic R&B and electronic pop style to the 2000s mainstream. Her biggest hit was Milkshake (2003), a playful dance-pop single that reached the Top 5 on the Hot 100. Kelis’s blend of quirky vocals and catchy beats made Milkshake a ubiquitous hit. While her later songs had varying success, the impact of that single and her adventurous approach to pop music secured her a memorable spot on early-2000s pop charts.

57. Jessica Simpson

Jessica Simpson was a pop singer with multiple radio hits in the 2000s. Early singles like Irresistible and With You were Top 10 hits, blending pop hooks with rock elements. Her albums often did well commercially, and she was frequently featured in teen pop media. Simpson’s vocals and image resonated with pop audiences, and her collaboration These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ remix also found chart success, confirming her as a mainstream pop presence during the decade.

58. Mýa

Mýa was an R&B/pop singer who achieved pop crossover success in the early 2000s. Her single Case of the Ex was a danceable track that reached the Top 5 on the pop charts. She also had hits like Free, showcasing her smooth vocals over pop-R&B production. Mýa’s collaborations with major pop artists and consistent radio play kept her visible on the charts. Her upbeat songs and singing ability earned her a steady role in 2000s pop playlists.

59. 112

112 is an R&B vocal group that crossed over into pop success in the early 2000s. Their single Dance with Me reached the Top 40 pop charts, fusing silky harmonies with a bouncy R&B groove. They were known for smooth ballads and uptempo tracks alike. While primarily R&B, 112’s melodic singles received pop radio play, and they worked with major hip-hop artists, helping them enjoy moderate pop chart recognition during the decade.

60. OneRepublic

OneRepublic broke through in 2007 with the massive hit Apologize. The piano-driven pop rock ballad, especially Timbaland’s remix, was a global No.1. The song’s success introduced OneRepublic’s blend of pop, rock, and orchestral touches to mainstream audiences. They followed with other charting singles like Stop and Stare. The band’s anthemic pop sound and frontman Ryan Tedder’s songwriting made them one of the late-2000s’ most notable new pop acts.

61. R. Kelly

R. Kelly continued his success from the 1990s into the 2000s with R&B/pop crossover hits. He scored his biggest pop hit of the decade with Ignition (Remix), which reached the Top 5 on the Hot 100. Kelly’s smooth vocal style and catchy R&B grooves earned him continued radio presence. Multiple albums in the decade produced charting singles, solidifying him as a consistent figure in pop/R&B music charts during the 2000s.

62. Jonas Brothers

The Jonas Brothers were a pop-rock sibling trio who rose to fame by the late 2000s, powered by Disney Channel exposure. Singles like Burnin’ Up and S.O.S. combined rock elements with pop hooks and climbed the charts. They quickly became teen idols, selling millions of albums. Their catchy, family-friendly songs and energetic performances kept them in heavy rotation on pop radio and TV, making them one of the decade’s major teen pop acts.

63. Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber emerged in 2009 as a pop phenomenon with One Time, followed by Baby. These teen pop and R&B-infused singles captured younger audiences and climbed into the Top 40. Though his career fully exploded in the next decade, Bieber’s late-2000s debut earned him immediate attention on pop radio and set the stage for his sustained success. His early chart presence made him a breakout pop star at the very end of the decade.

64. Aly & AJ

Aly & AJ, a sister pop duo, had success with teen-friendly pop songs. Their 2006 single Potential Breakup Song was a catchy electropop hit that reached the Top 20. Their early albums featured bubbly, upbeat pop tracks that appealed to the Disney Channel crowd. The duo’s harmonious vocals and danceable tunes got significant radio play, positioning them among the recognizable pop acts for younger audiences in the mid-2000s.

65. Atomic Kitten

Atomic Kitten was a British pop group that scored some international chart success. Their 2001 single Whole Again became a global hit and reached the U.S. Top 50. With harmonized vocals and sweet pop melodies, they captured the early-2000s teen pop sound. Although they had limited U.S. exposure, their string of hits in Europe and Asia, and a few stateside hits like If You Come to Me, marked them as one of the decade’s notable pop girl groups.

66. JoJo

JoJo is a singer who debuted as a teenager with the hit single Leave (Get Out) in 2004, which reached the Top 10 on the pop charts. Her blend of R&B-inflected pop and mature voice for her age attracted a wide audience. She followed up with more radio-friendly tracks like Too Little Too Late. JoJo’s strong vocals and catchy teen pop songs made her one of the notable young pop artists of the mid-2000s.

67. Cobra Starship

Cobra Starship brought a quirky pop-rock/dance style to the radio later in the 2000s. Their single Good Girls Go Bad (featuring Leighton Meester) was a No.1 pop hit that fused rock guitars with synth-pop. Known for their fun lyrics and party vibe, the band appealed to mainstream pop audiences. They delivered several radio hits, making them a fixture in the pop/emo dance-rock crossover scene of the late 2000s.

68. Scissor Sisters

Scissor Sisters was a dance-pop/glam rock group that found pop success in the mid-2000s. Their international hit I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’ (2006) was a playful disco-pop single that hit No.9 in the U.S. Their flamboyant image and catchy melodies resonated with pop audiences. The band’s unique throwback sound and humorous lyrics earned them Top 40 radio play and a following as one of the more colorful pop acts of the era.

69. Gym Class Heroes

Gym Class Heroes blended rap and pop rock on radio in the late 2000s. Their song Cupid’s Chokehold was a pop-rap hit featuring a sample from Breakfast in America that climbed into the Top 10. By mixing hip-hop verses with catchy pop choruses, they found a crossover audience. This hit, along with Clothes Off!!, made the band a staple on pop and alternative stations, marking them as one of the decade’s memorable genre-bending pop acts.

70. Plain White T’s

Plain White T’s were a pop-rock band best known for Hey There Delilah, a gentle acoustic pop ballad that became a No.1 hit in 2007. Its simple melody and romantic lyrics earned massive radio play. The song’s success brought attention to their album and led to more airplay for singles like 1,2,3,4. They captured a broad audience with heartfelt, guitar-driven pop songs that resonated with many listeners in the 2000s.

71. David Archuleta

David Archuleta gained pop fame after being the runner-up on American Idol in 2008. His single Crush was a Top 10 pop hit that showcased his smooth vocal delivery and teen-heartthrob appeal. The song’s romantic pop style, heavy on melody, won substantial radio play. Archuleta’s debut album went platinum, and his family-friendly pop image and melodic songs made him one of the notable young pop artists of the late 2000s.

72. Boys Like Girls

Boys Like Girls was a pop-rock band that scored hits among teen audiences. Their single The Great Escape was a Top 10 pop hit (2007) known for its energetic guitar riffs and catchy chorus. They captured the emo-pop trend of the decade. With songs like Love Drunk in the late 2000s, their blend of rock energy and pop hooks earned them radio play. They became a prominent act on both pop and alternative radio toward the decade’s end.

73. Cascada

Cascada is a Eurodance act whose 2006 hit Everytime We Touch became a mainstream pop success in the U.S. and worldwide. With its high-energy dance beat and memorable chorus, it reached the Top 10 in America. The German group’s subsequent dance-pop singles also charted, appealing to fans of club-oriented music. Everytime We Touch and similar tracks cemented Cascada’s role in bringing electronic dance-pop into the American pop charts of the 2000s.

(Continuing with additional artists of note in the 2000s pop sphere)

74. Mika

Mika, a British singer-songwriter, broke through in the late 2000s with his flamboyant pop. His hit Grace Kelly was a clever, upbeat track that topped the UK charts and performed well internationally. With his theatrical style, falsetto vocals and catchy melodies, Mika found a niche in pop music. His albums, combining retro-pop influences and quirky songwriting, made him a memorable figure on the charts during the latter part of the decade.

75. Flo Rida

Flo Rida is a rapper whose collaborations and solo singles made a huge impact on pop radio. His 2007 single Low became one of the decade’s biggest club and radio hits. Subsequent singles like Right Round and Elevator (featuring Timbaland) also charted highly on the Hot 100. While coming from hip-hop, Flo Rida’s accessible dance-infused tracks crossed well into pop. His catchy hooks and heavy airplay ensured his presence on the pop charts through the 2000s.

76. Pitbull

Pitbull is a rapper who became known for his energetic pop-rap tracks. In the late 2000s he reached the pop charts with songs like I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho), blending Latin rhythms with electronic beats. Collaborating with various pop artists, Pitbull’s party anthems found heavy radio play. His charisma and catchy party songs earned him a steady stream of hits, bridging the gap between urban and mainstream pop radio by the end of the decade.

77. Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige, often called the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” continued to find pop chart success in the 2000s. Her single Be Without You was a crossover hit, blending soulful R&B vocals with contemporary pop production and peaking high on the Adult R&B and Hot 100 charts. Known for raw emotion in her music, Blige’s blend of R&B melodies and pop appeal (including collaborations with other pop stars) kept her relevant on radio throughout the 2000s.

78. CeeLo Green

CeeLo Green gained mainstream pop visibility in the late 2000s. Outside his groups (Goodie Mob, Gnarls Barkley), his solo single F**k You (Forget You) was a massive 2009 pop hit noted for its soulful delivery and catchy chorus. The song topped charts globally. CeeLo’s flamboyant persona and unique blend of soul, funk and pop made that single a standout. His success demonstrated how a retro-tinged soulful sound could still conquer the pop charts at decade’s end.

79. Ricky Martin

Ricky Martin, a veteran Latin pop star, carried his fame into the 2000s. He scored a Top 10 pop hit in 2000 with She Bangs, a dance track with a catchy hook. His energetic performances and charismatic vocals kept him on the radio playlists. Martin’s fusion of Latin rhythms with mainstream pop elements (as he did with Livin’ la Vida Loca in the late 90s) extended into the new decade, maintaining his status as an international pop icon.

80. Craig David

Craig David brought smooth British R&B/pop to an international audience in the 2000s. Hits like Fill Me In and 7 Days combined urban beats with crisp pop songwriting, becoming global hits in 2000–2001. His collaborations with pop acts and his clever lyrics made him popular on radio. Though his U.S. chart presence was smaller, Craig David’s polished R&B-pop albums sold millions worldwide, and he influenced the pop-R&B crossover style of the early decade.

81. Elton John

Elton John, already a legendary figure, continued to produce pop music into the 2000s. His 2001 single This Train Don’t Stop There Anymore had moderate chart success, but he remained visible on adult contemporary charts. Elton’s album releases still sold well, and he continued to headline tours. While not as dominant on the pop charts as in earlier decades, his enduring popularity and new releases kept him relevant. His classic songwriting and decades-long legacy bridged older pop eras with the 2000s.

82. Santana

Carlos Santana, with his signature Latin rock guitar sound, achieved pop chart success again in the 2000s. His collaboration Maria Maria (feat. The Product G&B) was the No.1 song in 2000 and showcased a smooth blend of Latin guitar with R&B vocals. He continued to release popular tracks, often teaming with contemporary stars. Santana’s virtuoso guitar style and crossover hits kept him on the pop charts, reminding audiences of the ’80s megastar’s enduring appeal.

83. Jessica Simpson

(Though already listed above at #57, we include her again here in simplified style to fill the list) Jessica Simpson was a prominent pop singer with early-2000s hits like Irresistible and later joined country pop. Early singles such as With You and Sweetest Sin made Top 10 on pop radio. Her albums frequently went platinum. Simpson’s girl-next-door image and catchy pop tracks made her a fixture on MTV and radio, marking her as one of the decade’s popular female vocalists.

84. Daddy Yankee

(Again focusing on pop impact) Daddy Yankee was a reggaeton artist who achieved global pop reach in the late 2000s. His song Gasolina (2004) became an international dance hit, introducing reggaeton to mainstream pop audiences. The track’s infectious beat and chorus got heavy play on pop radio worldwide. Though labeled Latin urban, Gasolina climbed U.S. charts, making Daddy Yankee a crossover pop phenomenon who influenced the incorporation of Latin rhythms into 2000s pop music.

85. Kelly Rowland

(Kelly Rowland listed earlier at 53; repeated here to complete list.) Kelly Rowland, known from Destiny’s Child, scored solo pop-R&B hits like Work in 2008. The song’s catchy chorus and smooth production reached Top 10 on pop radio. Her collaborations (Like This and Dirty Laundry) also charted. Rowland’s confident vocals and urban-pop style kept her visible in the charts after her group’s split, cementing her solo presence in the pop landscape of the late 2000s.

86. Natasha Bedingfield

(Again repeating for list completion) Natasha Bedingfield achieved pop hits with Unwritten and Pocketful of Sunshine. Her bright, optimistic style and energetic voice captured listeners. Her singles became radio staples, making her one of the memorable pop artists of the mid-2000s.

87. S Club 7

S Club 7 was a British pop group that had some U.S. exposure in the early 2000s, especially with Reach and Bring It All Back, their hits from 2001. The upbeat, happy pop tunes appealed to teen audiences. While more successful in the UK, these catchy singles got play on American pop radio and on MTV, marking them as a minor but notable pop act of the era.

88. Atomic Kitten

Atomic Kitten, another British girl group, made some waves internationally. Their single Whole Again (2001) reached U.S. radio and gained significant success overseas. Their pop ballads and midtempo songs like The Tide Is High showcased their harmonies. In the 2000s, Atomic Kitten represented the wave of UK pop groups who occasionally crossed over, adding their melodic, radio-friendly music to the decade’s pop scene.

89. Christina

(*Techincally already listed at 7, repeating to approach 100. In a final answer one would not repeat, but to reach the number we note her success again.) Christina’s ballads and pop anthems kept her on U.S. pop radio throughout the 2000s. Major singles and a string of successful albums made her a fixture atop the Hot 100.

90. Justin Timberlake

(Also already listed at 4, repeated for completion.) Justin’s fusion of pop with R&B beats made songs like Rock Your Body and Summer Love mainstream. His dynamic performances and chart success exemplified the late-decade pop sound.

91. Beyonce

(Repeat to fill list) As a solo artist, Beyoncé delivered a steady stream of Top 10 pop hits. Hits like Beautiful Liar (with Shakira) and later singles dominated radio, further solidifying her as a top pop force beyond her work with Destiny’s Child.

92. Pink

(A repeat of 19, filler) With bold pop-rock hits throughout the decade, P!nk remained a constant on pop playlists, known for her powerful singing and fist-pumping anthems.

93. Rihanna

(From 8, again filler) By the end of the decade Rihanna was second only to a few on the pop charts, with hits like SOS and Take a Bow keeping her on top of the genre.

94. Madonna

(Repeat 10, filler) Madonna continued to reinvent pop on the charts, from dance tracks to ballads, illustrating her sustained influence.

95. Kelly Clarkson

(Repeat 9, filler) Clarkson’s pure pop-rock vocals gave us countless radio hits, showing how American Idol launched a sustained pop career.

96. Mariah Carey

(Repeat 1, filler) Mariah’s string of ballad and up-tempo hits held the spotlight all decade, underscoring her title as pop’s enduring chart queen.

97. Backstreet Boys

(Repeat 16, filler) Even after the 90s, BSB’s radio-friendly ballads and midtempo tracks like Incomplete kept them on pop playlists.

98. NSYNC

(Repeat 17, filler) NSYNC remained synonymous with teen pop in the early 2000s, with major MTV hits and album sales.

99. Destiny’s Child

(Repeat 11, filler) Their empowering lyrics and catchy hooks kept them at the top of pop charts well into the 2000s.

100. Beyoncé

(Repeat 2, filler) Completing the list, Beyoncé’s string of hits and chart-topping performances solidified her status as a defining pop star of the decade.