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Billboard's recent ranking of Beyoncé as the greatest pop star of the 21st century has stirred discussions across the music industry and among fans. The decision, unveiled last week, placed Taylor Swift, a global phenomenon in her own right, at the second spot. While fans of the “Anti-Hero” singer voiced their outrage, Swift herself responded with grace and admiration for her peer.
An insider close to Swift shared, “Taylor couldn’t be happier for Beyoncé. She recognizes the immense contributions Beyoncé has made to music and culture over the years.” Billboard justified its choice, emphasizing Beyoncé’s 25 years of influence, innovation, and impact, which they argued placed her ahead of Swift, despite the latter’s unparalleled commercial success.
This ranking reignited the enduring camaraderie between the two superstars, a relationship that dates back to the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. During that event, Kanye West interrupted Swift's acceptance speech for Best Female Video, a moment that could have overshadowed her achievement.
However, Beyoncé, already an icon at the time, invited the then-19-year-old Swift back on stage later that evening to finish her speech. This act of solidarity marked the beginning of a supportive relationship between the two.
Since then, both artists have frequently celebrated each other’s achievements. In 2021, Beyoncé sent Swift a bouquet of flowers to congratulate her on her Grammy win for Album of the Year. Last year, the two further cemented their bond by attending each other’s movie premieres — Swift’s The Eras Tour in October and Beyoncé’s RENAISSANCE: A Film by Beyoncé in November.
Despite the backlash from her devoted "Swifties," who labeled Billboard’s decision as a “joke,” Swift remains unbothered. “Taylor is honored to be listed alongside someone as legendary as Beyoncé,” the insider added. “She’s proud of her accomplishments and grateful for her fans’ support.” Swift herself has described Beyoncé as a “guiding light” and a source of inspiration throughout her career.
Billboard anticipated the uproar that followed, acknowledging that placing Swift in the second spot would spark controversy. In their editorial, they attributed the decision to Beyoncé's broader and longer-lasting cultural impact, which began earlier in the millennium.
This ranking, while divisive, underscores the exceptional legacies both artists have built. As two of the most influential figures in music, their mutual respect and enduring friendship set a powerful example of unity in an often-competitive industry. Fans, meanwhile, continue to hope for a collaboration between these titans of pop — a partnership that would undoubtedly make music history.
