Jay-Z has TIME on his side. The hip-hop mogul has been named one of the Most Influential People in the World alongside Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Frank Ocean, Miguel, and Christina Aguilera.
The music superstars join activists, reformers, researchers, and heads of state including President Obama, the Pope, Steven Spielberg, and LeBron James on the annual TIME 100 list.
New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg praised his fellow New Yorker, Jay-Z, who graces one of the seven magazine covers.
“He’s an artist-entrepreneur who stands at the center of culture and commerce in 21st century America, and his influence stretches across races, religions and regions,” he said.
Baz Luhrmann had glowing words to say about Mrs. Carter.
“When Beyoncé does an album, when Beyoncé sings a song, when Beyoncé does anything, it’s an event, and it’s broadly influential. Right now, she is the heir-apparent diva of the USA—the reigning national voice,” wrote The Great Gatsby director.
In his letter, John Legend champions Frank Ocean, who made headlines with his coming out letter.
“The day the letter was published, he came over to my house for a July 4 barbecue, where he was among friends who supported him and showed him love,” said Legend. “I think Frank’s career will be defined by his fearlessness and his artistic freedom.”
And Justin Timberlake gets props from the legendary Stevie Wonder.
“He has a spirit. He does God’s work through using the most of his talent.”
See the full list and read more on TIME.com.