I think Icons are people who stood the test of time. Whether it's been 100 years or 20, they are still relevant.

Elvis. Madonna. Michael Jackson. Marilyn Monroe. Frank Sinatra. Etc.

Sure there are others, but these people have stood the test of time. I do think what one person thinks of as an icon another might not.

To me (prepare the rage) I do not think lady gage or beyonce are icons. Sure Lady Gaga has done some things, but she is more notorious than Iconic. Beyonce is 'popular' but not iconic.

The real debate here is 'popular' vs 'Iconic'.