December 4, 2024: After Beyoncé was named the greatest pop star of the 21st century by Billboard, Taylor Swift showed her full support for the honor, expressing her admiration for the pop icon’s remarkable legacy.
A source close to Swift shared that she is happy and proud of Beyoncé’s achievement, acknowledging that the pop legend is deserving of the top spot. Despite being ranked as second on the list, Swift remains gracious and supportive, knowing that her fans may feel disappointed but understanding that Beyoncé’s influence and impact on the music industry is undeniable.
The source added, “Taylor appreciates all the fan support she’s received but she knows Beyoncé is a legend in the music industry and Taylor’s honored to have landed in the number two spot next to her.” Taylor also expressed that she is proud of everything she’s achieved, regardless of the ranking.
In an explanation for their decision, Billboard highlighted that while Taylor Swift is statistically the biggest pop star of the century, Beyoncé topped their editorial list due to her 25 years of influence, impact, and musical evolution. Swift has made an enormous mark on pop music, but Beyoncé’s legacy of consistently reshaping the genre and culture earned her the top place in this ranking.
Swift and Beyoncé have had a long and supportive friendship, dating back to the infamous 2009 MTV Video Music Awards when Beyoncé invited a shocked 19-year-old Swift back onto the stage after Kanye West interrupted her acceptance speech. Their bond has continued to grow over the years, with both artists regularly supporting each other publicly. In 2015, Swift even expressed her admiration for Beyoncé, saying she loved her “more than the normal amount.”
Both artists continue to make waves in the music industry—Taylor Swift released her Eras Tour concert film in October, while Beyoncé premiered her own film, “RENAISSANCE: A Film by Beyoncé”, in November.
Their mutual respect and friendship are a testament to the power of strong, successful women supporting each other in an industry that can sometimes be competitive.