The Most Fascinating Women in Music in 2010

2010 was a great year for women in music. Below are the most fascinating women in music today. I hope that as we enter 2011, these women continue to shine and make music that moves people.

Nicki Minaj - Nicki Minaj had perhaps the most anticipated album of the year. For the past few years, Nicki has been featured on numerous songs and released a few mix tapes, but her first studio released album "Pink Friday" hit stores in November. What makes Nicki so fascinating is that she has managed to inject sex appeal and quirkiness in the male dominated hip-hop world. In addition to being a great MC and lyricist, Nicki exudes a larger than life personality that makes you want to know more, see more, hear more. I look forward to seeing what 2011 has in store for Nicki.

Keyshia Cole - This year, R&B diva Keyshia Cole transformed from the brokenhearted girl who often sang about to woes of love to a woman who has embraced love and started a family of her own. In 2010 she announced her engagement to basketball player Daniel Gibson and gave birth to their son Daniel Jr. In the past, Keyshia's accomplishments were sometimes overshadowed by the antics of her family (namely sister Neffe and mother Frankie). What makes Keyshia fascinating is that this year, Keyshia seemed to distance herself from the drama focus on her future. He latest album "Calling All Hearts" was released in December and features a more mature and positive outlook on love. I hope that 2011 brings the release of her song "Better Me" as a single.

Katy Perry - Katy Perry was everywhere in 2010. First, she scored points with her mega hits "California Gurls", "Teenage Dream", and "Firework." Then she made headlines by marrying comedian Russell Brand. The two seem like the perfect non-traditional couple. But what makes Kay fascinating is that she is always seen to be in control of every aspect of her career. Even when she is making waves with her over the top wardrobe choices or causing an up roar with her cleavage (a la the Elmo scandal), Katy seems to know exactly what to do and say.

Fantasia - This year was filled with ups and downs for American Idol alum Fantasia Barrino. She starred in her own reality show, Fantasia For Real on VH1. The show chronicles the singer's life as she tries to balance family and her career. Then rumors of an affair with a married man circulated. Then, there was a suicide attempt. But what makes Fantasia fascinating is her resilience. Despite everything, she was able to release a new album and being to take back control over her life. I hope that 2011 brings Fantasia more success and notoriety for her music, versus her personal struggles.

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