The Weeknd calls out Billboard for excluding Lana Del Rey from Greatest Pop Stars of 21st century list

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Like many music fans, The Weeknd was also left puzzled by Billboard’s exclusion of Lana Del Rey from its Greatest Pop Stars of the 21st Century rankings.

The 'Blinding Lights' singer took to X (formerly Twitter) on November 19, Tuesday, to express his confusion, writing, “Where is Lana on that Billboard's greatest pop star list?”

The Weeknd backs Lana Del Rey after Billboards snub

The Weeknd's post has since garnered over 11,000 retweets and 48,000 likes, ignited a wave of support for his sentiment, with fans rallying behind him to celebrate Lana Del Rey's artistic legacy.

Lana Del Rey is celebrated for her unique sound, evocative lyricism, and her ability to blend vintage aesthetics with modern storytelling. Her impact on pop culture has been undeniable, yet her absence from Billboard's influential list has left many questioning the criteria for inclusion.

Previously, The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, secured a spot on the current rankings, landing at No. 18. The Weeknd’s support for Lana Del Rey carries additional weight due to their past collaboration on 'Lust for Life', the title track of her 2017 album. 

Fans join The Weeknd in calling out Billboard for overlooking Lana Del Rey

The Weeknd’s recent tweet about Lana Del Rey’s exclusion from Billboard’s Greatest Pop Stars of the 21st Century list seemed to align with the views of fans.

Many took to social media to echo his sentiments and call out the music industry's perceived oversight of Del Rey’s influence.

One user said, "The entire list is a shambles," while another praised The Weeknd for his vocal support of his peers, writing, “We love how supportive you are to other artists in the industry.”

Supporters flooded the discussion with passionate takes on Del Rey’s omission. “Real question, Lana Del Rey should (be) ahead of Kendrick and Jay-Z,” one fan argued.

Another chimed in, “Just had this exact thought.”

Some fans suggested that Del Rey’s greatness transcends the need for validation from such lists, with one commenting, “Cause she doesn’t need a list to define her greatness and talent.”

Meanwhile, others didn’t hold back their frustration, with a user exclaiming, “SPEAK ON ITTTT SHE DESERVES SO MUCHHHH THE INDUSTRY IS GARBAGE!!!!!!”

Billboard’s ongoing ranking has influential artists like Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, Adele, Ariana Grande, and Justin Bieber. The current standings place Drake at No. 4, with the top three spots yet to be revealed.

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