Best New R&B/Pop Artists of 2010

STAND-OUT TRACKS- "Baby", "Somebody to Love", and "U Smile"

After releasing My World at the end of 2010, young fans quickly became infatuated with teen heartthrob Justin Bieber. In 2010, fans witnessed Bieber transform into an International teen superstar. Throughout the World, Bieber shut down malls, performed at sold-out shows, and appeared on numerous Radio/Television outlets. After releasing his full-length album My World 2.0 in March of 2010, Bieber gained several notable mentions including winning "Artist of the Year" for the American Music Awards and being nominated for the 2011 Grammy Awards.

KE$HA

STAND-OUT TRACKS- "Tik Tok", "Blah Blah Blah", and "Your Love Is My Drug"

After releasing her debut album Animal in the beginning of 2010, Singer/Songwriter/Rapper Ke$ha quickly emerged as a top contender for the "Best New Artist" of 2010. Combining rhythmic dance beats and catchy lyrics, many listeners became attached to the originality and unique rap vocals Ke$ha produced. In 2010, Ke$ha earned several award nominations including "Favorite Breakout Artist" for The People's Choice Awards and "Best New Artist" for the World Music Awards.

BRUNO MARS

STAND-OUT TRACKS- "Grenade", "Just The Way You Are", and "Liquor Store Blues"

After hearing similar sultry and powerful vocals on a host of other artists' tracks, listeners were anticipating a CD launch from Singer/Songwriter Bruno Mars. After listening to his vocals on fellow Rapper Travie McCoy's hit song "Billionaire", fans were eager to hear more from this emerging talent. In July of 2010, fans' wishes were fulfilled as Bruno Mars released his first solo track "Just The Way You Are". Overnight Bruno Mars became a popular household name, appearing on many Television broadcasts including the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards and Saturday Night Live. Towards the end of 2010, Bruno Mars released his highly-anticipated album Doo-Wops & Hooligans. The album featured several chart-topping tracks and launched the career of this singer.

DRAKE

STAND -OUT TRACKS- "Over", "FindYour Love", and "Up All Night"

After successfully collaborating with top musical artists, Canadian Rapper Drake released his highly-anticipated 2010 debut album Thank Me Later. "Over", the first track release from the album, received numerous airplay due to Drake's infectious rhymes and the song's rhythmic beats. Drake gained several notable mentions including winning "MVP Of The Year" at the 2010 BET Awards and being nominated for "Best Rap Solo Performance" for the Grammy Awards. Due to the successful release of the album, Drake appeared on several Award shows including the BET Awards, Juno Awards, and the MuchMusic Video Awards.

NICKI MINAJ

STAND-OUT TRACKS- "Right Thru Me", "Your Love", and "Check It Out"

After collaborating with several Pop/R&B tracks, female Rapper Nicki Minaj released her highly-successful debut album Pink Friday in 2010. After appearing on various artists' albums including Christina Aguilera and Trey Songz, listeners were anxious to hear Minaj release her own solo work. Minaj's infectious rhymes and emotional lyrics helped gain listener's attention to her music. Since releasing Pink Friday, Minaj has appeared on several National Radio and Television broadcasts including "Live With Regis and Kelly" and "106 & Park". Minaj has also earned several nominations and won various Awards including "Best Female Hip-Hop Artist" and "Best New Artist" at the 2010 BET Awards.