Apple Music has officially named Billie Eilish as its Artist of the Year, celebrating her exceptional contributions to music and culture throughout 2024. This prestigious recognition marks Billie’s second time receiving the honor, making her the first artist ever to achieve this milestone since the award’s inception in 2019.
Billie’s groundbreaking year includes the release of her critically acclaimed third studio album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT. The project, which showcases Billie’s evolution as a bold and vulnerable artist, has been hailed as the finest work of her career. Upon release, it soared to No. 1 on Apple Music’s all-genre albums chart in an astonishing 138 countries, solidifying her status as a global icon.
This year also saw Billie make history with her second Academy Award win and two additional GRAMMY Awards for her poignant contribution to Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster film Barbie with the song “What Was I Made For?” Her success continues with seven more GRAMMY nominations for 2024, including Record of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year.
Beyond the studio, Billie has captivated audiences worldwide. She delivered a stirring performance of her hit “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” at the closing ceremony of the Summer Games, representing her hometown of Los Angeles and driving her highest Shazam volume to date. Her collaboration with Charli XCX on “Guess” became one of the defining songs of the summer, while her sold-out HIT ME HARD AND SOFT world tour continues to dominate well into 2025.
Reflecting on Billie’s journey, Rachel Newman, Apple Music’s Senior Director of Content and Editorial, said:
“From the moment we first heard ‘Ocean Eyes’ nearly a decade ago, we’ve been fans and champions of Billie’s work. It’s remarkable not only that her artistry resonates so widely but that she continues to grow bravely and honestly, on her own terms.”
Billie herself shared her gratitude:
“Since day one, Apple Music has supported my music and artistry, and I am both honored and humbled to receive this recognition as Artist of the Year this many years into my career.”
Fans can join the celebration by revisiting Billie’s entire catalog in Spatial Audio, exclusively on Apple Music. The platform will also spotlight the songs, albums, and artists that defined 2024 through curated playlists and editor picks throughout the week.
