Most Influential Artists 2000s

See photos of the 10 most influential artists of the past decade.

Jay-Z - Rapper, entrepreneur and overall trendsetter, Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter reigned supreme from 2000 through 2009. Coming out of an early retirement, Jay came back stronger than ever, releasing albums and spreading his worldwide influence through touring.
Beyonce - No female had more influence on R&B than the one and only Beyonce. From her breakthrough role in "Dreamgirls" to her string of #1 hits, Beyonce set the tone for all singers to follow.
Lil' Wayne - Mastering the game with his unique rhyme skill, Lil Wayne showed rappers how to saturate the market with product and a nonstop work ethic. The New Orleans rapper dominated toward the end of the decade.Usher - Before Chris Brown, Omarion and Justin Timberlake, there was Usher, and he continued to show R&B singers how to do it this decade. Releasing the powerful "Confessions" album, Usher remained strong despite hardships in his relationships with women.

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Jay-Z - Rapper, entrepreneur and overall trendsetter, Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter reigned supreme from 2000 through 2009. Coming out of an early retirement, Jay came back stronger than ever, releasing albums and spreading his worldwide influence through touring.

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