The most influential male singers of the last decade

15. J Balvin

J Balvin is an ambassador for traditional Latin rhythms in modern hip-hop, bringing the vibrancy of Latin American culture to the top of music charts. Named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2020, he continues to shape the music industry and redefine its cultural boundaries. | © J Balvin

14. Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X with his breakthrough single "Old Town Road" has challenged traditional boundaries of musical categorization. His music and performances challenge societal norms, providing visibility and representation for the LGBTQ+ community in media. | © Lil Nas X

13. Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake has been included in Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people twice, in 2007 and 2013. Despite some setbacks in recent years, Timberlake continues to focus on his career, releasing his sixth studio album, Everything I Thought It Was in March 2024. | © Justin Timberlake

12. Harry Styles

Transitioning from his early days with One Direction, Harry Styles established himself as a solo artist, earning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 2023. The famous singer also advocates for charity and inclusivity through his Treat People with Kindness initiative. | © Harry Styles

11. Post Malone

Post Malone has the unique ability to combine rock and rap elements, which is seen in his most successful works like Rockstar and Circles. His commercial success is unmatched, with record-breaking albums like Beerbongs & Bentleys and the most simultaneous top 20 entries on the Billboard Hot 100, surpassing legends like The Beatles. | © Post Malone

10. Sam Smith

Sam Smith with their chart-topping hits like Stay With Me and I'm Not the Only One have earned multiple Grammy awards, establishing themselves as one of the leading figures in modern hip-hop. Apart from that, their advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and candid discussions about identity have inspired many people to come out. | © Sam Smith

9. Shawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes is renowned for lyrics that always delve into personal experiences and emotions, resonating with a wide audience. Beyond music, he has made significant contributions through charity work, launching the Shawn Mendes Foundation to inspire his fans to bring about positive change in the world. | © Shawn Mendes

8. Bruno Mars

Growing up in a musically inclined family, Bruno Mars has the unparalleled ability to blend styles and connect with audiences on an emotional level. Throughout his career, Bruno Mars has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, underscoring his contributions to the music industry. | © Bruno Mars

7. Travis Scott

Drawing inspiration from icons like Kanye West and Kid Cudi, Travis Scott creates music that redefines modern hip-hop. Renowned for extraordinary live performances at the Astroworld, Travis has become one of the most iconic rappers in modern hip hop. | © Travis Scott

6. Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean is one of the most creative voices in modern music who explores themes of youth, love, loneliness, and mortality in his lyrics. Beyond music, his influence extends into fashion and visual arts, which have earned him a spot on Time’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in 2013. | © Frank Ocean

5. Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar is a famous hip-hop artist who combines jazz, funk, hip-hop, and lyrics to create songs that are deeply rooted in musical tradition. His texts tackle profound themes like racism, identity, and resilience, earning him widespread acclaim and solidifying his role as a powerful voice for social change. Spotify even crowned Kendrick the author of the Greatest Hip-Hop Song of the Streaming Era. | © Kendrick Lamar

4. Drake

Drake’s influence extends far beyond his bold $500,000 sports bets, he is one of the most commercially successful artists of the last decade. As the most searched for artist on Shazam in 2022, with 350 million recognitions, his impact is undeniable; Aubrey (his real name; Drake is just his middle name) set the new standard for rap and inspired artists for similar versatility. | © Drake

3. Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran has revolutionized pop music with his unique approach, relying on little more than his guitar and a loop pedal. His unassuming style and heartfelt lyrics have inspired a wave of similar artists, redefining the mainstream and influencing different genres. | © Ed Sheeran

2. The Weeknd

The Weeknd is a cultural phenomenon that has redefined modern music with his genre-blending mixtapes that combine R&B, pop, and alternative styles. A multiple Grammy winner and one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2020, Abel Tesfaye is the last decade's second most influential singer. | © The Weeknd

1. Kanye West

Kanye West is undoubtedly the most influential male rapper who has continually redefined the boundaries of hip-hop and popular culture. Exploring unconventional themes like education and self-awareness, Ye made hip-hop relatable to wider audiences, as well as inspired other famous artists like Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Travis Scott. And, well, at least his musical influence is a good thing, right? He's not exactly known for being the most level-headed, rational guy otherwise... | © Kanye West