18. Joanna Newsom
Here’s someone who took a genre by storm, using truly original sound and a unique voice. If you haven’t heard of Joanna Newsom, it’s only because folk music doesn’t have much of a following in the 21st century.
Newsom defies all the norms – she’s a successful folk harpist with the voice of an 8-year-old. She was named a major influence by Devendra Banhart and most of the big 21st-century folk bands, including Fleet Foxes and Iron & Wine.
wikimedia.org
17. White Stripes
The White Stripes duo has been hailed as a game-changing band by alternative rock bands and pop singers alike. They were always open about their creative process, saying they just brought back the simplicity of classic rock and added a few elements reminiscent of the blues. Cold War Kids, Jet, Wolfmother and Alabama Shakes are just a few bands who followed their formula. In 2010, the Stripes were named as ‘The 2000s Most Influential New Band’ by Rolling Stone Magazene.
wikimedia.org
Props for including Danger Mouse, but Bjork? And how is Jay Z below her…
Remember, the ranking is based on influence in the 21st century.
The truth is – pop music is released constantly, yet the trends rarely change. Going from Britney to Gaga is a huge step and it wouldn’t be possible (or acceptable) if not for Bjork.
Sadly, Jay Z doesn’t have as many followers.
I’m Sorry But Coldplay Should’ve Been On This List
Kanye West should be far, far higher. His influence on hiphop (the most popular genre in the US) in indisputable. He’s also a massive pop culture icon and hugely influential in other industries (fashion.) Eminem really isn’t that influential at all when it comes to developing the genre of hiphop
Kanye West is an insane moron.
No he’s not, he’s a genius, but at the end of the day he’s human like everyone else and he has his bad moments, the difference is his bad moments are on the spotlight 24/7, i mean people are still talking about stuff he said years ago. Most people that call him crazy have barely heard his music which is obviously the reason why they don’t understand his genius.