The best-selling artist of the 21st century is a title that often sparks debate due to the variations in measuring sales, including physical albums, digital downloads, streaming, and more. However, as of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, the best-selling artist of this period is often cited as Beyoncé or Eminem depending on the metrics used. It’s important to note that sales figures can vary over time with new releases and changes in consumer behavior.

Beyoncé, who started her career in the late 1990s as part of Destiny’s Child and then launched her solo career in the early 2000s, has been an influential figure in contemporary pop and R&B music. Her albums have consistently sold millions of copies worldwide, with “Dangerously in Love,” “B’Day,” “I Am… Sasha Fierce,” “4,” “Beyoncé,” and “Lemonade” being particularly successful.

Eminem, also known as Marshall Mathers, emerged in the late 1990s and became one of the most notable figures in rap and hip-hop. His albums such as “The Marshall Mathers LP,” “The Eminem Show,” and “Recovery” have achieved massive global sales, earning him a place at the top of best-selling artists lists.

Other noteworthy artists who have achieved significant sales during this period include Taylor Swift, Adele, Rihanna, Drake, Ed Sheeran, Justin Bieber, and Lady Gaga. Each has had a profound impact on the music industry with their distinct styles and successful albums.

Streaming services have also altered how sales are measured in recent years. Artists like Drake or Ed Sheeran might not have the same album sales as their predecessors but have accumulated billions of streams worldwide.

The exact rankings can vary based on different methodologies for counting sales and streams. Still, Beyoncé and Eminem are frequently mentioned among the top-selling artists of the 21st century when considering both traditional album sales and digital streaming numbers up to this point.