'00s: Beyonce's "Crazy in Love," featuring Jay-Z, isn't a bad choice, but once "American Idol" blossomed, pure pop music surged in downloads and at top 40 radio. Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone" has since become a blueprint for the female power-pop that has blanketed radio since, with Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Pink and others building up resumes featuring comparable hooks and production. Taylor Swift - an artist who defines taking advantage of the decade's new media to build and maintain success - deserves a mention for "Love Story" and "You Belong With Me," the latter track becoming the first country crossover to top the all-format Nielsen BDS-monitored Radio Songs chart last year. Lady Gaga's "Just Dance" additionally revived acceptance for mainstream dance music.
