What is pop music? Is it Jay-Z or Rihanna? Justin Bieber or One Direction? Pop has been around since the 1950s, and its definition has changed a lot over time. Today, we think of pop as a genre that incorporates elements of hip-hop, electronic dance music, and rock. But what are the roots of this ubiquitous genre? Is it the now-antiquated term “popular music” or something more?

Short songs, upbeat tempos, and hooks that are easy to remember are all hallmarks of pop music. Today’s pop stars have taken these elements and created something truly unique. There’s no one formula for a pop song, which is part of what makes the genre so interesting.

Here are the greatest pop song singers of the 21st century if you’re ready to go back in time and brush up on some lyrics.

Britney Spears – The Princess of Pop

You’ve crushed on her, you’ve danced to her music, and you definitely know all the words to ‘Hit Me Baby One More Time’. Spears is one of the most loved pop singers of all time, with a record-breaking career that includes hit singles, sold-out tours, and a Las Vegas residency. From 2002 to 2012, Britney was one of the highest-paid female artists in the world.

After her conservatorship was put in place in 2008, Spears slowly made her way back to the top. ‘Glory’ was her ninth-studio album, released in 2016. However, since then things have simmered down a bit. However, the world could still use some more talent like Britney’s, there are music schools that are shaping the next generation of singers. If you’re looking for one for yourself or your child, the Online Singing Lessons Co is a great place to get enrolled.

Justin Timberlake – The Pop Heartthrob

With a blessed vocal box and some serious dance moves, Timberlake is the ultimate package. He got his start on “The Mickey Mouse Club” in the early ’90s, and by the time he got into his chocolate teenage years, he was already a member of the biggest boy band of all time, *NSYNC.

In 2002, Timberlake went solo with his debut album “Justified,” which spawned hits like “Cry Me a River” and “Rock Your Body.” Since then, he’s released four more solo albums, won multiple Grammy Awards, and even acted in a few movies. In 2018, Timberlake was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. And man, those looks- Timberlake is still giving us heart eyes 20 years later.

Beyoncé – The Queen Bee

Is there anything Beyoncé can’t do? We guess not. She’s a singer, songwriter, actress, dancer, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Beyoncé got her start in the group Destiny’s Child in the late ’90s, and she released her first solo album in 2003. “Dangerously in Love” featured the hit single “Crazy in Love,” which put Beyoncé on the map as a solo artist.

She’s released six more albums since then, “Lemonade” was a critical and commercial success. In 2017, she birthed her twins Rumi and Sir Carter, and in 2018, she released a live album called “Everything Is Love” with her husband, Jay-Z. What a power couple!

Rihanna – The Bad Gal

Rihanna is a Barbadian singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman. She’s among the best-selling artists of all time, with over 250 million records sold worldwide. With hits like “Umbrella,” “Work,” and “We Found Love,” Rihanna has dominated the charts for over a decade.

In 2012, she founded her own beauty company, Fenty Beauty, which was an instant success. Rihanna has also released several fragrances, and her fashion line, Savage x Fenty, was launched in 2018. Her latest album, although not yet released, is one of the most anticipated albums of 2022. We can’t wait to see what RiRi does next!

Christina Aguilera – The Voice

With a powerful voice that has earned her five Grammy Awards, Aguilera is a force to be reckoned with. She began her career with “The Mickey Mouse Club” in the early ’90s, and her self-titled debut album was released in 1999. “What a Girl Wants” and “Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You)” were both huge hits, and Aguilera quickly became a pop sensation.

She’s released eight studio albums, and her ninth is set to be released in late 2021. Aguilera has also dabbled in acting, and she’s appeared on several television shows, including “Nashville” and “The Voice.”

Shakira – Naughty or Nice

Shakira is a Colombian singer and songwriter. And we all are very well aware of her dancing and acting skills. She’s one of the best-selling Latin artists of all time, and she’s also the only Colombian artist to score a number one album on the Billboard 200 chart. Seventy million albums sold worldwide; that’s the magic number for Shakira.

In 2001, she released her breakout album “Laundry Service,” which featured the hit single “Whenever, Wherever.” It was followed by the release of “Fijación Oral Vol. Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie” and “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” are two of the most well-known songs. Shakira is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and she’s dedicated her time to various charities. In 2014, she was inducted into the Latin Recording Academy Hall of Fame.

Enrique Iglesias – The Prince of Latin Pop

Enrique Iglesias is a Spanish singer, songwriter, and actor who has our hearts. He’s the son of famous Spanish singer Julio Iglesias, but he’s definitely made a name for himself. Enrique is one of the best-selling Latin artists of all time, and he’s also the King of Latin Pop. This guy knows how to play with the souls with his romantic lyrics and melodies.

In 1995, he released his self-titled debut album, which featured the hit single “Bailando.” Enrique has released ten studio albums, and his latest, “Sex and Love,” was released in 2014. He’s also dabbled in acting, appearing in the film “Once Upon a Time in Mexico” Although he’s not currently touring, we’re hoping he’ll announce a new tour soon!

Conclusion

Are you already humming to one of these pop singers’ songs? We hope so! These are only a few of the best pop singers of the 21st century, but they’re definitely some of the most talented and successful. Whether you want to cry a river over an ex, dance the night away, or get lost in a steamy romance, these artists have got you covered. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to move because the best pop singers of the 21st century are sure to get your heart pumping!