Billboard's 2025 Pop Star Rankings: Honorable Mentions, Rookies, and Comebacks
In 2019, Billboard's staff selected the greatest pop star for each year since 1981, and expanded the project by ranking the top 10 pop stars for the last four years. The rankings are based on various factors like chart performance, social media presence, and cultural impact. The 2025 rankings will be revealed over two weeks, with the top two stars announced on January 30. The honorable mentions, rookie, and comeback artists will be unveiled on January 16. The rankings are not solely based on statistics but also consider factors like live performances, music videos, and industry influence.
Addison Rae had a successful year in 2025, releasing her debut studio album that reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200. She had hits like "Headphones On" and "Fame Is a Gun" and embarked on a headlining tour. Addison also made her acting debut in a Netflix true crime anthology and received a Grammy nomination for best new artist. Despite her achievements, she lacked a breakthrough hit to make it to the top 10.
Ariana Grande had a strong year in 2025, releasing the Brighter Days Ahead deluxe edition of her 2024 album and winning a VMA for a short film. She announced her upcoming tour and starred in the Broadway adaptation "Wicked." Despite her success, she fell short of the top 10 due to a stronger musical presence in 2024.
Benson gained popularity in 2025 with hits like "Beautiful Things" and "Sorry I'm Here for Someone Else." His album "American Heart" debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, but received mixed reviews and did not produce another major hit. Despite his touring success, he did not make it to the top 10.
Beyoncé had a lucrative year in 2025 with her Cowboy Carter tour becoming the highest-grossing country tour. She won an Emmy Award and continued to dominate headlines. However, she did not release new music in 2025, which affected her ranking.
BLACKPINK had a successful year in 2025 with solo ventures from each member and hits like "Jump." ROSÉ's collaboration with Bruno Mars, "APT.," peaked at No. 3 on the Hot 100 and topped the Year-End Global 200 chart. Despite their individual achievements, BLACKPINK did not reach a new peak collectively.
Bruno had a successful year with hits like "Die With a Smile" and "APT." that ended up in the top 10 of the 2025 Year-End Hot 100. Despite his success, the anticipated album did not materialize, affecting his ranking.
Chappell Roan had two top five hits in 2025 with "The Giver" and "The Subway." She toured across Europe and the U.S. and prioritized activism through her music. Despite her success, she did not have a defining smash hit in 2025.
Justin Bieber made a surprise return in 2025 with the album "Swag," which received positive reviews and spawned hits like "Daisies" and "Yukon." Despite the album's success, the lack of a tour or major media appearances impacted his ranking.
In conclusion, the 2025 rankings of the greatest pop stars are based on various factors beyond just chart performance. The top 10 artists will be revealed over the next two weeks, with honorable mentions, rookie, and comeback artists also being recognized. Each artist's achievements and impact on the pop music landscape in 2025 will be discussed in detail.