One of the most influential rock bands of the 21st Century rose from the ashes of the legendary 1990s band Nirvana. Foo Fighters, formed by ex-Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, have gone on to become extremely successful in their own right. Their fourth album "One by One" earned the band a Grammy for best rock album in 2004. Other rock musicians of note include, Radiohead, The White Stripes, Queens of the Stone Age and The Strokes.
Although originally popular in the 1980s, Madonna has continued to influence both fans and fellow musicians well into the 21st Century. It is largely due to Madonna's groundbreaking style and attitude that stars like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry are as incredibly popular as they are today. Britney Spears has also had a significant role to play in shaping the sound of pop music today, creating a path for stars like Rhianna and The Pussycat Dolls.
Having first gained popularity in the mid-1980s, urban music such as Hip Hop has really flourished in the 21st Century. Producers like Timbaland have brought urban music to mainstream listeners, working with stars like Missy Elliot and receiving extremely high acclaim in the process. Rapper Eminem has been incredibly influential within the Hip Hop scene, as have Southern rap duo OutKast, whose 2003 hit single "Hey Ya" stormed the charts all over the world.
Alternative genres like art-rock, folk and sludgecore have all produced influential musicians in the 2000s. Artists like Seasick Steve and Bonnie "Prince" Billy have been responsible for a resurgence in the popularity of Americana and folk music. Art-rock heroes Sonic Youth have continued to be extremely influential within the underground music scene in the 21st Century. Sludge legends Melvins' 20th studio album "The Bride Screamed Murder" became their first to enter the Billboard charts in October, 2010.