The music scene is continuously flooded with new talent, few of which manage to stand the test of time. After the jump, we break down a few artists who we expect to see for the next 15 years and some who may be on their on their final 15… minutes.
Rihanna
There is no doubt that RiRi is a formidable foe on the singles front, but for how long will this Rihanna Reign continue. Since her 2005 debut, ‘Music of the Sun,’ the Barbadian belle has released 8 albums (7 of which dropped on an almost annual basis).
To have navigated her way to the decade mark is an achievement, yet some assert this rapid-fire album strategy will in itself mitigate her career.
Let’s put things in perspective. Monica, Usher, and Brandy have released 8, 7, and 6 albums respectively with their 20+ years in the industry. The rapidness of her roll-outs has arguably watered down Robyn’s discography thus not allowing her music to truly resonate with the masses in ways her more established peers have.
While this “No Fu**s Given” attitude has helped satiate of the Navy for the past few years, will it grant her the lasting career like that of a J.Lo or Janet Jackson? In our opinion, no it will not. At least not in its current incarnation.
Taking her “time” hasn’t panned out particularly well either, if the current reviews of her muddled 8th effort ‘ANTI’ is any indication.
A few fundamental changes to her foundation are necessary if she aims to add another decade to her dominance. Vocal and performances classes perhaps?
Iggy Azalea
Now a Pop punchline, Iggy Iggz has seen her career plateau. Struggling to relight her commercial fire, where does this leave Amethyst for the future?
In our eyes, on uncertain ground. Cancelled tours, pushed back albums, and label issues are just a few of the obstacles facing the Australian MC. Then of course’s there’s the memes, Vines, and negative Twitter trends that have plagued her after a number of social media showdowns.
While few artists make it to the top and stay there, the briskness of Iggy’s undoing has been shocking. Indeed, though her star seemingly soared at the speed of light, it’s as if folk are ready to flick the switch…off. There’s no doubt that Azalea has her work cut out for her with new album ‘Digital Distortion’, because sadly, at this junction, she’s developed into a more of a novelty than a hot commodity.
Katy Perry
This Pop titan has achieved something that no other artist on this list has been able to achieve: Five consecutive #1 singles on one album. And though having no Grammys to her name, only the King himself, Michael Jackson, has matched her singles triumph.
While most Pop stars are a dime a dutiful dozen, Katy has managed to keep her name in the conversation since her major debut in 2008. Where does this leave her in the upcoming years?
The thing with Ms. Perry is that despite her commercial success, much of her catalogue skews gimmicky. From the over-the-top productions, props, to the dancing sharks, it can often seem like a clever crutch to detract from the actual talent of the artist.
Though in an overall “better” predicament than BFF RiRi, Katy would be well-advised to use the years ahead to hone in on her craft and solidify her artistry. For, as time has shown time in and out, the public has a limited appetite for gumdrops and candy-colored wigs.
Adele
’19’
’21’
’25’
Now, granted that is more than enough to justify dropping the mic, we do hope the inevitable decades that lay in her illustrious career bring a tad more variation.
As stellar as each of said projects has been, most have followed a similar sound sonically. ’25’ was an appreciated step in the right direction and we’re hopeful she continues to flirt with fresh sounds.
Beyonce
Beyond the big hits and mega-watt performances, what shines brightest about Queen Bey is her work ethic.
A perfectionist by nature, very little about her output gives basic or unbothered.
This along with numerous other qualities have aided Yoncé in her 20+ year career. Even with the endless accolades, praise, and respect within the music industry, her hustle seems to only intensify with time. Indeed, She skilfully reinvents her sound and brand – both of which are important requisites not only for sustainable career in today’s market but for the legend status she’s striving for (or has already achieved, according to some).
In Mrs. Carter’s case, her longevity is well established. So much so that it makes the prospect of the next 20 years of her career potentially more exciting than the first!
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Do you agree with TGJ’s Lee?