Do You Agree? Ryan Murphy Says Madonna Is the MOST Important Artist of the Last 50 Years & Taylor Swift Is the Only Woman Who Comes Close

Published: Tuesday 19th May 2026 by Rashad

Ryan Murphy may have created some of modern history’s most celebrated shows (see: ‘Nip/Tuck,’ ‘American Horror Story,’ ‘Monster,’ ‘Feud,’ etc.), but the EMMY, TONY, and GRAMMY-Award winning writer, director, and TV producer has reignited a feud between some of the entertainment industry’s biggest fan bases for his belief that Queen of Pop Madonna‘s reign extends across all genres of music.

Much like Beyonce fans (also known as the #Beyhive) who cried foul at her omission from New York Times‘ recent “30 Greatest Living Songwriters” tally, Madge fans echoed the sentiment at her name being left off the list.

Among those making headlines for the dissension is Murphy who took to Instagram to voice his disapproval.

“Madonna is THE most important artist of the last 50 years. No one comes close in cultural import, other than Taylor Swift and Paul McCartney, both of whom are truly incredible artists for the ages,” he shared via a lengthy comment on the MadonnaLiteral fan page. “The hate Madonna has received, and survived. It’s beyond comprehension. There is no one in my lifetime who has meant more to me, or had more of an impact on art, fashion, music, ALL OF IT. Than Madonna.”

As his statement started making its rounds and getting mixed reactions across social media, Ryan weighed in again to double down on his stance.

“I stand behind this 100 percent. How can you not include Madonna on this list?! It’s insane not to. And my deeper question is WHY are other artists who Madonna paved the way for not saying this? So many of them walk down paths Madonna paved ALONE,” he relayed.

And while the debate ignited from his commentary rages on, Madonna, Taylor, nor ‘New York Times’ has weighed in on the hoopla…yet.

Ryan’s high praise of Madge follows similar adulation delivered by Hall & Oates legend Daryl Hall who claimed “modern Pop music wouldn’t exist without her.” Revisit his statement here.

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  1. Pat May 20, 2026

    her biggest song is a culture vulture moment. She’s the kim k of music

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