Billboard reveals top 100 female artists of the 21st century

Updated March 20, 2025, 3:36 p.m. | By Music Reporter

Rihanna, Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, Jennifer Lopez and Taylor Swift are among the top 100 female artists of the past 25 years.

Christina Aguilera, Taylor Swift, Beyonce/ Instagram

Billboard has released its list of top female artists of the past 25 years ahead of its Women in Music Awards.

The 100 Top Women Artists of the 21st Century list was released on Monday. The list is based on the Billboard 200 and Hot 100 charts.

Taylor Swift, who earned her 14th No.1 on the Billboard 200 in 2024 with 'The Tortured Poets Department', claimed the top spot beating music superstars like Mariah Carey, Amy Winehouse, Whitney Houston and Celine Dion.

The list kicked off with 'Damaged' hitmaker Danity Kane at 100. 'American Idol' winner Fantasia featured at 98.

She's not the only 'American Idol' star on the list.

Jordin Sparks (#77), Carrie Underwood (#13), and Kelly Clarkson (#11) also made the cut.

Britney Spears has been keeping a low profile musically over the past few years, but she still ranks high on the top 100 list.

The 'Oops… I Did It Again' singer is #14.

Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Nicki Minaj, Destiny's Child, Christina Aguilera, Aril Lavigne and SZA made it into the top 20 but missed out on the top.

ALSO READ: Billie Eilish named top artist born in the 21st century

Despite the list focusing on chart performance, it still causes controversy online.

"How is Ariana only number 8?? Rihanna hasn’t even made music in over a decade," an Instagram user commented.

"Beyoncé should be below [Lady] Gaga if your separating her from destinys child," a second said.

A third complained: "Yall put Katy before Gaga? I’m sorry, but the impact of these two women is vastly different and not for Katy’s favour."

Ouch!

The Billboard Women in Music Awards will take place on March 29.

South African singer Tyla will be honoured with the 'Impact Award'.