Our artists of the decade made great music, sure. Not one-and-done, either -- they knew how to repeat. Just as important, they staked their claims in the grand parade of popular culture. From Groban to Gaga, the 50 recording artists we would've had to invent if they didn't exist.
50. Dave Matthews Band
At a time of dying albums, DMB have had five straight debuts at No. 1. Plus: the bandleader's awesome Ozzy impersonation on 'SNL.'
49. Lily Allen
"Do you get a little kick out of being small-minded?" England's MySpace success story sang on her oh-so-charming kiss-off, 'F--- You.' She'll do it her way, thank you very much.
48. Bright Eyes
Conor Oberst survived the "new Dylan" tag, simultaneously released two albums (one acoustic, one electronic) in 2005 and called out President Bush on 'The Tonight Show.' What did you do in the '00s?
47. Usher
Already "the next Michael Jackson" when the first one stepped off this mortal coil.
46. Daft Punk
These French robots were already house-music vets when they made a breakthrough 'Discovery' in '01. Harder, better, faster, stronger.
45. John Mayer
Any rock star who will put on a neon-green thong for laughs can be shortlisted as an artist of the next decade, too.
44. Gwen Stefani
Girls who love to
