Women Rule! the Top Five New Artists of 2009

WOMEN RULE! And no doubt 2009 was the year of the ladies. While established artists such as Beyonce continued to ride the charts and iconic stars such as Whitney Houston made their comebacks, new artists also had their time to shine. The women featured on this list have been making waves over the last year. Some you know very well, while a few you may not have heard of yet, but all five have the ambition, creativity, and talent to be superstars for years to come.

5. Kid Sister

Kid Sister has technically been around for a few years. However, the Chicago native released her first full-length album Ultraviolet in late 2009. Kid Sister cleverly blends hip-hop and electronic beats with tongue-in-check lyrics and her colorful persona to create a presence that undeniable. Born Melissa Young, the college graduate has collaborated with DJ A-Trak and hip-hop star Kanye West. Kid Sister's retro fusion style of music guarantees that she will be around well into 2010. Standout tracks include "Pro Nails" and "Right Hand Hi."

4. Laura Izibor

Laura Izibor has been garnering attention throughout the year for her sweet yet soulful sound. The singer, whose debut album Let the Truth Be Told was released this summer, exudes a raw tenderness that draws comparisons to Alicia Keys and Corinne Bailey Rae. But what sets this Irish-born singer apart from the pack are her catchy, but melodic tunes. Several of Izibor's songs have been featured in popular films and television programs. Standout tracks include "If Tonight Is My Last" and "Shine."

3. Keri Hilson

For years, Keri Hilson penned hits for musical superstars like Britney Spears and Usher. Finally in 2009, she came from behind the booth, grabbed the microphone and hit the scene in a big WAY. Hilson's debut album In a Perfect World has spawned several hits. The Atlanta native has garnered many accolades including a recent Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. Standout tracks on the album include "Knock You Down" featuring Ne-Yo and Kanye West and "Energy."

2. Amanda Blank

Perhaps the least know artist on the list, Amanda Blank released her first album in Augu2009 entitled "I Love You." Blank, born Amanda Mallory gained notoriety in the Philadelphia band Sweatheart. What makes Blank a standout performer is her creative style and in your face lyrics. Blank is a breath of fresh air in the hip-hop world. Standout tracks include the lead single "Might Like You Better" and "A Love Song" which samples LL Cool J's iconic "I Need Love."

1. Lady GaGa

Hands down, the breakout star of 2009, Lady GaGa has established herself as a superstar in the making. Her live performances, complete with optical illusions and stage theatrics, are second only to her amazing vocal talent. Born Stefani Germanotta, the New York born singer is known for outrageous wardrobe both on and off stage. Her debut album was re-released with several new songs in November of 2009. Dspite her overwhelming popularity and musical talent, the rising star was kept out of the Best New Artist Grammy category on a technicality. Despite the snub, Lady GaGa is sure to e around for years to come, giving her fans more of her creative and eclectic musical stylings. Standout tracks include "Paparazzi" and "Bad Romance."