Billboard's "21 Under 21"

Below is a list of Billboard's "21 under 21: Music's Hottest Minors"

Billborad 21 under 21

Surprisingly, only one Jonas Brother made the list (guess who), Miley Cyrus was almost beat by the girl who loves to hate her,  and the country queen reigns. You'll see lots of names that aren't yet regularly poppin on your radio.The list is based on these stars' potential to take over pop culture (at least for the next year, according to Billboard). Although some of these names have appeared for several years... 

Did your favorite stars make the list? 

21. Sean Kingston

20. Cody Simpson

19. Nikki Yanofsky

18. New Boyz

17. Never Shout Never

16. Wonder Girls

15. Diggy Simmons

14. Miranda Cosgrove

13. Chris Colfer

12. Taylor Momsen

11. Lex Luger

10. Miley Cyrus

9. Greyson Chance

8. Demi Lovato

7. Willow Smith

6. Nick Jonas

5. Soulja Boy

4. Charice

3. Selena Gomez

2. Justin Bieber

1. Taylor Swift

A Record Deal is in YOUR Future!

There’s a great article in this week’s Billboard Magazine entitled, “Meet the Biebers.” It discusses the immense success of Justin Bieber, the overnight success of Greyson Chance, and the scramble to find the next, or next, next,( considering many “Beliebers” have already become fans of Greyson) pop superstar. The article goes on to talk about Bieber, his success, and how it’s a breakthrough for kids who want to get signed. The article relates that due to Bieber, and other rising sensations, record companies are more apt to sign an artist without a Disney or Nickelodeon affiliation. Not to take anything away from the many singer/actor combos who have come out of these networks, but the idea is to get back to the pure pop star teen idol.  In lieu of regurgitating the entire article, the take home message is clear- young stars are what’s hot in the entertainment industry.  The article discusses  the careers of thirteen year old  Australian Cody Simpson, fifteen year old Khalil who is signed under the same label  as Bieber,  and seventeen year old Aaron fresh of Trinidad. According to Billboard, the US version of Simon Cowell’s  X Factor will have a lower age limit of fourteen. There are more opportunities than ever for aspiring young entertainers. Hopefully labels will choose wisely, (I might have some great recommendations for them), and raw talent will not lead to pure superstardom but an expression of passion for music and the entertainment industry.

Credit: Herrera, Monica “Meet the Biebers” Billboard page 5, June 5, 2010