21 Famous Female Singers of the 2000s (Must Hear)

The 2000s were a transformative decade in music, marked by the rise of powerful female voices that shaped the sound of the era.

From pop and R&B to rock and soul, these artists not only dominated the charts but also redefined what it means to be a female singer in the modern music industry. Their influence extended beyond their music, as they became cultural icons, fashion trendsetters, and voices for social change.

In this article, we explore the careers of the most famous female singers of the 2000s, highlighting the impact they had on music and the lasting legacies they continue to build today.

21 Most Famous Female Singers from the 2000s That Will Bring You Back

These singers helped define the sound of the 2000s, making significant impacts across various genres from pop and R&B to rock and country.

Here’s a list of 21 famous female singers who rose to prominence in the 2000s:

#1 Beyoncé

Beyoncé, born in 1981 in Houston, Texas, is one of the most influential and successful female artists of the 2000s. Initially gaining fame as the lead singer of Destiny’s Child, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, Beyoncé launched her solo career in 2003 with the album Dangerously in Love. The album featured chart-topping singles like “Crazy in Love” and “Baby Boy,” showcasing her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence. Her ability to blend pop, R&B, and hip-hop set her apart from her peers and established her as a dominant force in the music industry.

Throughout the 2000s, Beyoncé continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including B’Day and I Am… Sasha Fierce, which featured hits like “Irreplaceable” and “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).” Her work not only earned her numerous awards, including multiple Grammys, but also solidified her status as a global icon. Beyoncé’s influence extends beyond music, as she has become a cultural symbol of female empowerment, artistry, and activism.

#2 Britney Spears

Britney Spears, born in 1981 in McComb, Mississippi, is an American pop singer who became one of the defining figures of pop music in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Spears first rose to fame with her debut single “…Baby One More Time” in 1998, which became a global sensation and catapulted her to stardom. Her debut album of the same name sold over 25 million copies worldwide, establishing her as a pop icon. Spears’ blend of catchy pop hooks, danceable beats, and her girl-next-door image resonated with audiences, making her one of the most successful female artists of the 2000s.

Spears continued to dominate the charts with albums like Oops!… I Did It Again, Britney, and In the Zone, which produced hits such as “Toxic” and “Everytime.” Despite facing personal challenges and public scrutiny, Spears’ impact on pop music is undeniable, and she is often credited with revitalizing the teen pop genre. Her influence on the music industry and popular culture has earned her the title “Princess of Pop.”

#3 Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera, born in 1980 in Staten Island, New York, is a powerhouse vocalist who emerged as one of the leading pop stars of the 2000s. Aguilera first gained attention as a teen pop sensation with her self-titled debut album in 1999, which included hits like “Genie in a Bottle” and “What a Girl Wants.” Her vocal prowess and ability to infuse pop music with elements of soul and R&B set her apart from her contemporaries. Aguilera quickly established herself as a versatile artist capable of tackling a wide range of musical styles.

In the 2000s, Aguilera released a series of successful albums, including Stripped (2002), which featured the empowering anthem “Beautiful,” and Back to Basics (2006), a double album that paid homage to jazz, blues, and soul music. Her willingness to experiment with different sounds and her powerful, emotive voice have made her one of the most respected and influential singers of her generation. Aguilera’s impact on pop music and her contributions to female empowerment through her music continue to be celebrated.

#4 Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys, born in 1981 in New York City, is a singer, songwriter, and pianist who became one of the most successful and acclaimed artists of the 2000s. Keys first gained widespread recognition with her 2001 debut album Songs in A Minor, which featured the hit single “Fallin’.” The album’s blend of classical piano, soul, R&B, and hip-hop influences earned her critical acclaim and commercial success, winning her five Grammy Awards. Keys’ distinctive voice, coupled with her skills as a pianist and songwriter, set her apart in the music industry.

Throughout the 2000s, Keys continued to release successful albums, including The Diary of Alicia Keys and As I Am, which produced hits like “You Don’t Know My Name” and “No One.” Her music often explores themes of love, empowerment, and social issues, resonating with a wide audience. Keys’ impact on contemporary R&B and her ability to seamlessly blend genres have made her one of the most influential and respected artists of her generation.

#5 Rihanna

Rihanna, born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in 1988 in Saint Michael, Barbados, is a global pop and R&B superstar who rose to fame in the mid-2000s. She first gained international attention with her debut single “Pon de Replay” in 2005, which showcased her Caribbean-influenced sound and dynamic voice. Her debut album Music of the Sun was a commercial success, but it was her third album, Good Girl Gone Bad (2007), that solidified her status as a pop icon. The album featured the smash hit “Umbrella,” which topped the charts worldwide and earned Rihanna her first Grammy Award.

Throughout the 2000s, Rihanna continued to release a string of successful albums, including Rated R and Loud, producing hits like “Disturbia,” “Rude Boy,” and “Only Girl (In the World).” Her ability to reinvent her sound, blending pop, R&B, dancehall, and electronic music, has kept her at the forefront of the music industry. Rihanna’s influence extends beyond music, as she has also become a successful entrepreneur and fashion icon, solidifying her place as one of the most powerful figures in entertainment.

#6 Katy Perry

Katy Perry, born Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson in 1984 in Santa Barbara, California, is a pop singer and songwriter who became one of the biggest stars of the 2000s. Perry first gained widespread fame with her 2008 single “I Kissed a Girl,” which was a commercial success and sparked both praise and controversy for its provocative lyrics. Her album One of the Boys established her as a pop sensation, and she quickly became known for her catchy, upbeat songs and colorful, often whimsical image.

Perry’s 2010 album Teenage Dream was a massive commercial success, producing five number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100, including “California Gurls,” “Firework,” and “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.).” This achievement made Perry the first female artist to have five number-one hits from a single album. Known for her infectious pop anthems and vibrant stage presence, Perry’s influence on pop music and culture in the 2000s was significant, and she remains one of the most successful and recognizable figures in the industry.

#7 Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson, born in 1982 in Fort Worth, Texas, first gained fame as the winner of the inaugural season of American Idol in 2002. Her victory launched her into stardom, and her debut single, “A Moment Like This,” became a chart-topping hit. Clarkson quickly established herself as a powerful pop-rock vocalist with the release of her debut album Thankful in 2003. However, it was her second album, Breakaway (2004), that solidified her place in the music industry, featuring hits like “Since U Been Gone,” “Behind These Hazel Eyes,” and “Because of You.”

Clarkson’s music, characterized by its blend of pop, rock, and soulful vocals, resonated with a wide audience, earning her critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards. Her ability to convey raw emotion through her powerful voice has made her one of the most successful and enduring artists of the 2000s. Throughout her career, Clarkson has continued to evolve as an artist, expanding her influence as a television personality and talk show host, while maintaining her status as a beloved figure in pop music.

#8 Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse, born in 1983 in London, England, was a British singer-songwriter known for her deep, soulful voice and her ability to blend jazz, soul, and R&B influences. Winehouse first gained widespread attention with her 2003 debut album Frank, which showcased her distinctive vocal style and songwriting talent. However, it was her 2006 album Back to Black that catapulted her to international fame, featuring hits like “Rehab” and “You Know I’m No Good.” The album’s vintage sound, influenced by 1960s girl groups and Motown, resonated with audiences worldwide and earned her five Grammy Awards.

Winehouse’s music often explored themes of love, heartbreak, and self-destructive behavior, with her raw and honest lyrics striking a chord with listeners. Despite her immense talent, Winehouse struggled with personal demons, including substance abuse, which ultimately led to her untimely death in 2011 at the age of 27. Amy Winehouse’s influence on modern music remains significant, and her deep, expressive voice continues to inspire artists across genres.

#9 Pink

Pink, born Alecia Beth Moore in 1979 in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, is a pop-rock singer known for her powerful voice, rebellious persona, and anthemic hits. Pink first gained attention with her 2000 debut album Can’t Take Me Home, which featured the R&B-influenced singles “There You Go” and “Most Girls.” However, she quickly transitioned to a more rock-oriented sound with her second album, Missundaztood (2001), which included hits like “Get the Party Started,” “Just Like a Pill,” and “Don’t Let Me Get Me.” This album established her as a bold, edgy artist who was unafraid to tackle personal and social issues in her music.

Throughout the 2000s, Pink continued to release successful albums, including Try This, I’m Not Dead, and Funhouse, which produced hits like “Who Knew,” “So What,” and “Sober.” Her music often blends pop, rock, and punk influences, and she is known for her high-energy performances and acrobatic stage shows. Pink’s ability to convey both strength and vulnerability through her music has made her one of the most influential and enduring artists of her generation.

#10 Shakira

Shakira, born Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll in 1977 in Barranquilla, Colombia, is a global pop superstar known for her unique voice, dynamic dance moves, and ability to blend Latin, pop, and rock influences. Shakira first gained international fame with her 1995 album Pies Descalzos, but it was her 2001 English-language debut, Laundry Service, that made her a household name worldwide. The album featured the hit singles “Whenever, Wherever” and “Underneath Your Clothes,” which showcased her distinctive voice and cross-cultural appeal.

Throughout the 2000s, Shakira continued to release successful albums, including Fijación Oral, Vol. 1 and Oral Fixation, Vol. 2, which produced hits like “La Tortura” and “Hips Don’t Lie.” Her music often incorporates elements of Latin, Arabic, and rock music, making her one of the most versatile and innovative artists in the industry. In addition to her music career, Shakira is known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in the field of education. Shakira’s influence on global pop music and her ability to connect with diverse audiences have made her one of the most iconic artists of the 2000s.

#11 Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga, born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta in 1986 in New York City, is a singer, songwriter, and actress known for her powerful voice, provocative fashion, and ability to continually reinvent herself. Gaga first rose to fame with her 2008 debut album The Fame, which included the international hits “Just Dance” and “Poker Face.” Her blend of pop, electronic dance music, and glam rock, combined with her theatrical performances, quickly made her one of the most talked-about and influential artists of the late 2000s.

Gaga’s 2009 follow-up The Fame Monster produced hits like “Bad Romance,” “Telephone,” and “Alejandro,” further solidifying her status as a pop icon. Known for her bold fashion choices and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, Gaga has used her platform to push the boundaries of pop music and challenge societal norms. Her ability to combine catchy pop hooks with artistic expression has earned her numerous awards and a lasting impact on the music industry. Lady Gaga’s influence on pop culture and her ability to evolve as an artist have made her one of the most significant figures in music over the past two decades.

#12 Avril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne, born in 1984 in Belleville, Ontario, Canada, is a pop-punk singer-songwriter who became one of the defining voices of the early 2000s. Lavigne first gained fame with her 2002 debut album Let Go, which featured the hit singles “Complicated,” “Sk8er Boi,” and “I’m with You.” Her rebellious image, catchy pop-punk sound, and relatable lyrics quickly made her a favorite among young audiences, earning her the title of “Pop Punk Princess.” Lavigne’s music often dealt with themes of teenage angst, love, and self-empowerment, resonating with a generation of listeners.

Throughout the 2000s, Lavigne continued to release successful albums, including Under My Skin and The Best Damn Thing, which produced hits like “My Happy Ending” and “Girlfriend.” Her ability to blend rock, pop, and punk influences, along with her distinctive voice, made her one of the most influential artists of the decade. Avril Lavigne’s impact on pop-punk and her role in shaping the sound of the 2000s have earned her a lasting legacy in the music industry.

#13 Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez, born in 1969 in The Bronx, New York, is a singer, actress, and dancer who became a global superstar in the 2000s. Lopez first gained fame as an actress in the late 1990s, but it was her music career that propelled her to international stardom. Her debut album On the 6 (1999) featured the hit single “If You Had My Love” and marked the beginning of her successful music career. Lopez’s ability to blend Latin, pop, and R&B influences, combined with her captivating stage presence, made her a dominant force in the music industry.

Throughout the 2000s, Lopez continued to release successful albums, including J.Lo and This Is Me… Then, which produced hits like “Love Don’t Cost a Thing,” “Jenny from the Block,” and “All I Have.” In addition to her music career, Lopez became a fashion icon and a successful entrepreneur, expanding her brand into film, television, and business ventures. Jennifer Lopez’s influence on pop culture, her versatility as an artist, and her ability to continually reinvent herself have made her one of the most enduring and influential figures in entertainment.

#14 Norah Jones

Norah Jones, born in 1979 in Brooklyn, New York, is a singer, songwriter, and pianist known for her smooth, jazz-inflected voice and her ability to blend jazz, pop, and country influences. Jones first gained widespread attention with her 2002 debut album Come Away with Me, which featured the hit single “Don’t Know Why.” The album’s mellow sound and Jones’s rich, soulful voice resonated with listeners, earning her five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Her music, often characterized by its intimate, laid-back style, has made her a favorite among fans of jazz and adult contemporary music.

Jones’s subsequent albums, including Feels Like Home and Not Too Late, have continued to showcase her distinctive voice and her talent for crafting introspective, emotionally resonant songs. Throughout her career, Jones has collaborated with a wide range of artists across genres, further cementing her reputation as a versatile and influential musician. Norah Jones’s deep, soothing voice and her ability to create music that connects with listeners on a personal level have earned her a lasting place in the music industry.

#15 Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus, born in 1992 in Franklin, Tennessee, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who first gained fame as the star of the Disney Channel series Hannah Montana. The show, which premiered in 2006, featured Cyrus as a teenager leading a double life as a pop star, and it quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Her success on the show led to a music career, with Cyrus releasing multiple soundtracks as her character and then transitioning to her solo career with the release of her debut album Meet Miley Cyrus (2007). The album, featuring the hit single “See You Again,” marked the beginning of her transformation from child star to pop sensation.

Cyrus’s music evolved throughout the 2000s, with her 2009 album The Time of Our Lives featuring the chart-topping single “Party in the U.S.A.,” which became a defining anthem of the decade. Known for her distinctive voice and ability to blend pop, country, and rock influences, Cyrus has continued to reinvent herself as an artist, exploring different genres and pushing boundaries with each new project. Miley Cyrus’s impact on pop culture and her ability to successfully transition from teen star to respected musician have solidified her place as one of the most influential figures of the 2000s.

#16 Fergie

Fergie, born Stacy Ann Ferguson in 1975 in Hacienda Heights, California, is a singer, songwriter, and actress best known as the lead vocalist of the Black Eyed Peas and for her successful solo career. Fergie first gained widespread recognition as a member of the Black Eyed Peas, joining the group in 2002 and contributing to their global success with hits like “Where Is the Love?,” “Let’s Get It Started,” and “My Humps.” Her powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and ability to blend hip-hop, pop, and R&B elements made her a standout member of the group.

In 2006, Fergie launched her solo career with the album The Dutchess, which produced several hit singles, including “London Bridge,” “Fergalicious,” “Glamorous,” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry.” The album’s success established Fergie as a major force in the music industry, earning her critical acclaim and commercial success. Known for her versatility and bold style, Fergie has continued to influence pop and hip-hop music, both as a solo artist and as a member of the Black Eyed Peas. Her impact on the music scene in the 2000s remains significant, and she continues to be a respected figure in the industry.

#17 Nelly Furtado

Nelly Furtado, born in 1978 in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, is a singer, songwriter, and producer known for her eclectic musical style, blending pop, folk, R&B, and world music influences. Furtado first gained international recognition with her 2000 debut album Whoa, Nelly!, which featured the hit singles “I’m Like a Bird” and “Turn Off the Light.” Her unique voice and genre-blending sound set her apart from her contemporaries, earning her critical acclaim and commercial success. Furtado’s ability to experiment with different musical styles while maintaining a pop sensibility made her one of the most innovative artists of the early 2000s.

In 2006, Furtado released her third album Loose, which marked a significant shift in her musical direction, incorporating more hip-hop and dance-pop elements. The album produced several hit singles, including “Promiscuous,” “Maneater,” and “Say It Right,” and became her most successful release to date. Furtado’s willingness to evolve as an artist and explore new sounds has earned her a lasting impact on the music industry, making her one of the most respected and influential female artists of the 2000s.

#18 Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood, born in 1983 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, is a country music singer and songwriter who rose to fame after winning the fourth season of American Idol in 2005. Her victory on the show catapulted her into the spotlight, and her debut album Some Hearts (2005) became a massive commercial success, featuring hit singles like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats.” Underwood’s powerful voice, combined with her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, quickly made her one of the leading figures in country music.

Throughout the 2000s, Underwood continued to dominate the country music charts with albums like Carnival Ride and Play On, earning multiple Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist. Her music, which often blends traditional country with pop influences, has resonated with a wide audience, making her one of the most successful female artists of the decade. Carrie Underwood’s impact on country music and her ability to cross over into the mainstream have solidified her status as one of the most influential and respected artists in the industry.

#19 Leona Lewis

Leona Lewis, born in 1985 in London, England, is a British singer and songwriter who gained international fame after winning the third season of the UK television show The X Factor in 2006. Her debut single, “A Moment Like This,” topped the UK charts and set the stage for her successful music career. In 2007, Lewis released her debut album Spirit, which featured the global hit single “Bleeding Love.” The song became one of the best-selling singles of the decade, earning Lewis critical acclaim and commercial success around the world.

Lewis’s powerful, emotive voice and ability to convey deep emotion through her music quickly made her one of the most prominent female artists of the late 2000s. Her follow-up albums, including Echo and Glassheart, continued to showcase her vocal talent and versatility as an artist. Leona Lewis’s impact on pop and soul music, combined with her success as a global recording artist, have earned her a lasting place in the music industry.

#20 Ashanti

Ashanti, born Ashanti Shequoiya Douglas in 1980 in Glen Cove, New York, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who became one of the leading figures in R&B and hip-hop music in the early 2000s. Ashanti first gained prominence with her 2002 self-titled debut album, which featured the hit singles “Foolish,” “Happy,” and “Baby.” The album was a commercial success, earning her a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Album and solidifying her status as a rising star in the music industry. Ashanti’s smooth vocals, combined with her ability to blend R&B with hip-hop, made her one of the most popular female artists of the decade.

Throughout the 2000s, Ashanti continued to release successful albums, including Chapter II and Concrete Rose, further establishing her as a dominant force in R&B music. Her collaborations with artists like Ja Rule and Fat Joe also contributed to her widespread popularity. Ashanti’s impact on the R&B genre and her success as a solo artist have made her one of the most influential female singers of the 2000s.

#21 Ciara

Ciara, born Ciara Princess Harris in 1985 in Austin, Texas, is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who became a prominent figure in R&B and pop music in the 2000s. Ciara first gained attention with her debut single “Goodies” in 2004, which topped the charts and established her as a fresh new voice in the music industry. Her debut album Goodies featured additional hits like “1, 2 Step” and “Oh,” showcasing her ability to blend R&B, hip-hop, and crunk music, while her smooth vocals and impressive dance skills set her apart from her peers.

Ciara’s music often features themes of empowerment, love, and independence, resonating with a wide audience and earning her critical acclaim. She continued to release successful albums throughout the decade, including Ciara: The Evolution and Fantasy Ride, solidifying her status as one of the most influential female artists in R&B. Ciara’s impact on music and her ability to continually evolve as an artist have made her a lasting presence in the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Beyoncé transition from Destiny’s Child to a successful solo career?

Beyoncé launched her solo career in 2003 with the album Dangerously in Love, which featured hits like “Crazy in Love” and established her as a dominant force in pop and R&B. Her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence quickly solidified her status as one of the most influential artists of the 2000s.

What impact did Amy Winehouse have on the music industry in the 2000s?

Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black album brought a revival of jazz and soul influences into mainstream music, earning her critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards. Her deeply personal lyrics and distinctive voice left a lasting impact on contemporary music.

How did Shakira’s music appeal to both Latin and global audiences?

Shakira’s ability to blend Latin rhythms with pop and rock elements, showcased in hits like “Whenever, Wherever” and “Hips Don’t Lie,” allowed her to connect with diverse audiences worldwide. Her unique voice and cross-cultural appeal made her one of the most successful global artists of the 2000s.

Why is Avril Lavigne often referred to as the “Pop Punk Princess”?

Avril Lavigne earned the title “Pop Punk Princess” with her 2002 debut album Let Go, which featured rebellious, angst-filled anthems like “Complicated” and “Sk8er Boi.” Her edgy image and catchy pop-punk sound resonated with young audiences, making her a defining voice of the early 2000s.