The Best Musicians of the 21st Century: A Comprehensive Analysis
Choosing the best musician of the 21st century is a subjective task, but this article aims to explore and evaluate some of the most influential artists of the past decade. The discussions will focus on a handful of talented musicians, examining their impact, versatility, and critical acclaim.
Kendrick Lamar: The Poet of the 21st Century
Kendrick Lamar is perhaps the most deserving of the title, with his incredible four-album stretch from Good Kid M.A.A.D. City (2012), To Pimp a Butterfly (2015), Damn (2017), and the Black Panther soundtrack (2018).
On Good Kid M.A.A.D. City, Kendrick masterfully weaves a narrative that combines adolescent drama, inner-city politics, and personal growth. The album's cinematic quality has drawn comparisons to Shakespearean attention to detail and self-criticism, making gangsta rap relevant to the 21st century. Kendrick’s introspective approach is exemplified in tracks like “Alright,” which became a protest anthem for the Black Lives Matter movement.
Kendrick's genre-defying exploration, such as his use of jazz on To Pimp a Butterfly, has introduced a new level of artistry and class to hip-hop. This influence resonated even beyond the music scene, with David Bowie citing To Pimp a Butterfly as an inspiration for Blackstar.
Kendrick's music is characterized by rich characterization, plot-driven narratives, political themes, and a potpourri of genres. His ability to balance innovation, popularity, and critical acclaim places him above the rest of the decade's artists. Furthermore, his album Damn became the first RB album to win a Pulitzer Prize, and it remains one of the most critically acclaimed albums of the decade.
Drake: The Nicest Rapper in Hip Hop
Drake stands as the next contender, with his minimalist and melancholic style making him the "nice guy" of hip-hop. His music, especially before his 2018 scandal, resonated with a global audience, hinting at what hip-hop as a genre can offer beyond brute force and bravado.
Drake's Scorpion (2018) matured hip-hop, putting it into a glossy, palatable form that appealed to middle-class suburban tastes. However, his critical acclaim and innovation remain second to Kendrick's. His introspective lyrics and ability to evolve his sound, from Take Care to Auburn Hills, earned him respect and a significant fanbase across continents.
Adele: The Soulful Voice of the Decade
Adele brought a fresh wave of soul and pop to the 21st century. Her album 21 (2011) was a nostalgic reminder of why falling in love with music is a thrilling experience. Adele's raw emotion and powerful vocals are a rare combination that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Her drive to remain authentic and connect with her listeners through her music is evident in 21 and 25. Despite some criticism for 25's commercial orientation, Adele's albums and concerts continue to break records. However, her silence later in the decade makes it less clear whether she should be viewed as a decade-defining artist. Nonetheless, her impact on the music industry and her ability to evoke deep emotions make her a strong contender for the best musician of the 21st century.
Ed Sheeran: The Most Streamed Artist of the Decade
Ed Sheeran was the world's most streamed artist for much of the 2010s, a testament to his ability to connect with diverse audiences. His relatable, apolitical approach to pop music has made him one of the most accessible and popular artists of the decade.
Singer/songwriter par excellence, Ed Sheeran's knack for crafting catchy yet meaningful lyrics is unparalleled. His album ÷ (Divide) became the highest-grossing album ever, demonstrating the power and potential of his music. However, his lyrics may be disappointing for a second-place artist, and his insistence on maintaining a "good guy" image might feel less authentic to some listeners.
Honourable Mentions
Besides Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and Adele, other talented artists like Bruno Mars, Kanye West, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, and Beyoncé deserve recognition. These musicians have significantly contributed to the music landscape and are worthy of praise for their innovative and influential work.