Time Magazine has released its take on the 'Most Influential People of 2024,' and we’re breaking down the musicians they recognized- from rappers and Broadway singers to the Princess of Pop!
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For the last 25 years, Time Magazine has created an annual list of the top 100 most influential people of that particular year. From politicians and world leaders to athletes and entertainers, the individuals listed may or may not be in the public’s favor- but they are, ultimately, influential. “One way or another they each embody a breakthrough,” Time explained of their 100 philosophy. “They broke the rules, broke the record, broke the silence, broke the boundaries to reveal what we’re capable of.”
This year’s list was published just yesterday, and a total of six musicians were awarded the most coveted spots. One of these musicians, Dua Lipa , even graced the cover of the Time 100. And it’s understandable why, as the 28-year-old artist has been nominated for 10 GRAMMYS within the 3-year launch of her career. The magazine cited her endless pop hits and undeniable stardom when classifying Dua Lipa within the artist category. “She is driven, independent, and possesses a desire for knowledge,” wrote Patti Smith . “She is herself, striving to redefine the pop-genre cosmos.” In addition to the music, Dua was also cited as an outspoken humanitarian through her work with editorial platform Service95 and advocacy for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Other musicians featured in the ‘Artists’ category include rapper 21 Savage and Broadway Hamilton star Leslie Odom Jr. Both were praised for their genuine, inventive spirits, and commitment to their craft.
Another two musicians, Kylie Minogue and Burna Boy were named as ‘Icons’ by the publication. 55-year-old Minogue is the highest-selling female recording artist from Australia, with her biggest hit being 2001’s "Can't Get You Out of My Head". Even Coldplay's Chris Martin called the singer a kind-hearted inspiration and an artist who, “knows how to be of service, making songs that fans go on to love for years.”
Time also applauded Burna Boy for his “deeply original flow and his signature groove.” The Nigerian singer and producer has been a face for the afrobeats movement, and was the first African artist to sell out a U.S. stadium concert in 2023. Since then, Burna Boy has broken more records: he was the first to perform the fusion genre at the GRAMMY Awards this year, first Nigerian to headline Madison Square Garden, and has brought afrobeat to new commercial heights. “He is history in the making,” African artist Angélique Kidjo wrote. “Now a whole generation of young people from the continent is looking up to him.
As for songwriter, artist, and producer Jack Antonoff , there would be no better category than that of the Time’s 100 ‘Titans.’ Antonoff has continuously proven himself as an industry giant, from his performances alongside band Bleachers to his work with Lana Del Rey and the many eras of Taylor Swift . (And before you ask: no, Swift was not on the list this year -- Time named her the 2023 Person of the Year instead!). With a sense of safe invention and clever wordplay, Jack Antonoff has made himself one of the most sought-after producers and songwriters of the 2020s. “There’s a reason everyone wants to be near Jack” friend and collaborator Maren Morris wrote of his award . “He’s just f***ing cool. The best part? He knows it but would never say it.”
With those six, we have all the musicians listed within the Time's 100 Most Influential People of 2024. Do you think Time's got it right or were you expecting some other names in the mix? Let us know, and listen in to some of the most influential music through Audacy’s Music Awards Radio -- available anywhere and anytime on the Free Audacy app.
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