Drake has once again cemented his legacy as a hip hop titan, taking the coveted top spot on Billboard’s list of the greatest R&B/Hip Hop artists of the 21st century. As the industry continues to evolve with the rapid pace of streaming and cultural shifts, Drake’s continued dominance comes as both a remarkable achievement and a testament to his enduring impact on the music scene.

The list, which covers the years 2000 through the end of 2024, ranks artists based on their performance on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums and Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs charts. Despite starting his career a few years into the new millennium—his debut mixtape, So Far Gone, dropped in 2009—Drake has outshone his peers, amassing an impressive 30 No. 1 hits on the Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart and 15 No. 1 albums on the corresponding album chart.

Drake’s penchant for releasing chart-topping music and his strategic collaborations have been key components of his formula for success. He’s worked with a wide array of artists across genres, expanding his influence and broadening his appeal. From pop anthems like “One Dance” to reflective tracks like “Marvins Room,” Drake has consistently showcased versatility in his music.

The achievement is especially notable considering the heavyweights trailing him: No. 2 on the list is Beyoncé, an icon with a career studded with landmark achievements since her time in Destiny’s Child. Known for her profound vocal prowess and inspirational presence, Beyoncé has left an indelible mark on the charts with hits like “Crazy In Love,” amassing numerous No. 1 titles in the process.

In third place sits The Weeknd, another powerhouse in the industry known for his genre-blending sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. His inclusion before legends such as JAY-Z and new-era stars underscores the shifting tastes of listeners in the streaming age.

The hip hop landscape has dramatically transformed since its golden years. Where physical album sales once dominated, today, streaming numbers dictate chart success. In this streaming-first environment, artists like Drake have excelled, leveraging platforms to reach global audiences in unprecedented ways. The data-driven modernization of the charts mirrors changes in consumer behavior, with playlists and viral trends dictating hits as much as, if not more than, any radio play or commercial marketing could.

Behind Drake and Beyoncé stand other key figures, ranging from genre-defining veterans like Usher and Lil Wayne to modern pop juggernauts like Rihanna and Chris Brown. Lil Wayne, in particular, presents an interesting juxtaposition with Drake. As a veteran with 35 charting projects, Wayne’s vast discography includes everything from solo albums to collaborative projects, illustrating a breadth of work that continues to resonate.

Rounding out the top ten are not-so-surprising contenders like rap phenomenon Eminem and soul legend Alicia Keys, both of whom have also shaped the landscape of hip hop and R&B over the past two decades. Their inclusion highlights the diversity within the genre’s most influential artists, showcasing a blend of storytelling, cultural impact, and musical innovation.

Drake’s success unquestionably exemplifies how the music industry has evolved, and his standing at the peak of this list affirms his role as a defining artist of our time. From headlining major festivals around the globe to consistently breaking streaming records, his influence only continues to grow—setting the stage for future artists to walk through doors he’s helped open.