Top Pop Stars of January 2026: A Recap and Forecast

The new year has brought a wave of excitement in the world of pop stardom, with rising stars from last year reaching new heights and established artists continuing to solidify their legacies. In the latest episode of the Greatest Pop Stars podcast, host Andrew Unterberger, along with Billboard staffers Trevor Anderson and Eric Renner Brown, discuss the top pop stars of January 2026. They share their top five lists, honorable mentions, disappointments, and artists to watch in the coming months.

The podcast delves into the key questions surrounding the start of the year in pop stardom. From Bruno Mars' comeback single to Harry Styles' ticket prices, the team debates the latest happenings in the industry. They also compare the early successes of Zara Larsson and Fetty Wap in 2026 and discuss Kanye's recent apology for his past behavior. Additionally, they anticipate the cultural impact of Bad Bunny's upcoming February releases on the charts.

Listeners can tune in to the podcast for a lively discussion on the latest trends in pop stardom, accompanied by a YouTube playlist featuring highlights from January 2026. The Greatest Pop Stars podcast is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and other podcast platforms for weekly episodes every Thursday.

As part of their commitment to supporting trans rights, the podcast encourages donations to organizations such as the Transgender Law Center, Trans Lifeline, and Destination Tomorrow. They also urge listeners to contact their local congresspeople to advocate for trans rights. Stay informed and engaged with the latest updates in pop stardom by subscribing to the Greatest Pop Stars podcast.