On losing the title of the best pop star of the 21st century to Beyoncé, Taylor Swift has expressed nothing but respect. After the Tuesday announcement from Billboard, one insider revealed that Swift is “really happy” for the 43-year-old superstar on such an achievement.
Taylor has always supported strong female artists and thinks Beyoncé really deserves this award,” the source told Page Six. While Swift is said to be in agreement with her fanbase’s frustrations over the situation, sources say she harbors no self-pity over the result.
The source further clarified that the singer of Midnights welcomes the support of her fans, though she is cognizant that Beyoncé is an irreplaceable figure in the industry. Swift reportedly feels honored to be ranked just behind her. “Taylor is proud of her accomplishments, regardless of her position,” added the insider.
Swifties fumed online, taking issue with the rankings shortly after Billboard declared Beyoncé the best pop star of the century. The consensus among the Swifties was that, with her consistent string of No. 1 songs and blockbuster albums, Swift was robbed of that top spot.
One fan wrote on X, “Taylor deserves the spot, we don’t care,” while another said, “In my opinion, most of the new pop girls are inspired by Taylor, not Beyoncé.” Still, other fans pointed out how, in a career spanning decades, Beyoncé has never had a diamond record.
Billboard made a note in its explanation that although Swift’s numbers eclipse Beyoncé in album sales and streams, the editorial team chose Beyoncé for the title based on her impressive 25-year influence and impact to the music world. “While Taylor Swift is the century’s biggest pop star by the numbers, our editorial staff has chosen Beyoncé as our No. 1 Greatest Pop Star of the Century, considering her evolution and lasting influence,” Billboard wrote.
