Pop Stars of June 2026: A Recap and Forecast

The first half of 2026 in the world of pop music has been dominated by familiar names from the past decade. June 2026 saw the return of some of the biggest stars with new music, tours, and significant moments, ensuring that the year continues to be filled with star power. On the Greatest Pop Stars podcast, host Andrew Unterberger, along with Billboard staffers Xander Zellner and Emily Fuentes, discuss the top five pop stars of June 2026, along with honorable mentions, disappointments, and artists to watch in the second half of the year.

The podcast delves into various questions surrounding the pop music scene in June 2026. Topics include Olivia Rodrigo's long-term legacy at a young age, Taylor Swift's continued dominance, Ariana Grande's latest track "Hate That You Love Me," Malcolm Todd's rising status, Phoebe Bridgers' return after six years, and upcoming albums by Gracie Abrams, Charli XCX, and Carly Rae Jepsen. The podcast also debates who has been the Greatest Pop Star of the first half of 2026.

Listeners can tune in to the Greatest Pop Stars podcast on platforms like Apple Music or Spotify for weekly discussions on pop stardom every Thursday. The podcast encourages support for trans rights by donating to organizations like Transgender Law Center, Trans Lifeline, Destination Tomorrow, Gender-Affirming Care Fundraising on GoFundMe, and Human Rights Campaign – In Your Area. Additionally, listeners are urged to contact their local congresspeople to advocate for trans rights.