Who are the most influential artists in today's pop music?

Question

I hedge my bets on the following: Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Ray Charles, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes, James Taylor, Simon & Garfunkel, Michael Jackson, Madonna (grudgingly), Johnny Cash, Billy Joel, Lionel Richie, Hall & Oates, Baby Face, David Bowie, The Police/Sting. Did I miss out on any? Oh, yes, Prince. Tell me what you think.

Answer 1

I think the most influential artists in today's pop music are those blonde girls.. Madonna, Britney, Christina, Jessica simpson..

Answer 2

Well don't get me wrong i love some of the people you put up there (Simon and Garfunkel are amazing and a ton of other people) but they aren't really today's pop music. They are (I'm sad to say it) the oldies. You probably meant (just guessing) who are the most influential artists of today's pop music? am i right? OK well I'd have to agree with you, those people were very influential. Don't forget Blondie or QUEEN. Queen is way up there.

Answer 3

i think todays pop music isn't influenced by any of thr great acts you mentioned most haven't had a hit in over a decade and you're only as good as the sales of your last cd, no matter your legend status. madonna is hanging in, bowie has a new song, johnny cash got a revival after walk the line came out and he died, and prince is trying as seen by his halftime show........i'd say beyonce, mariah carey, christina aguilerra, rob thomas, james blunt, and their ilk are pop music at the moment, as sad as that is, a world where tina turner can't get a song on the radio to save her life is a barren musical landscape indeed!

Answer 4

I think music is now influenced by different today. For instance, Timbaland is making his impression by teaming with several artists for songs/albums.