The recent passing of Etta James and the news that Beyonce is to be the subject of a university course marks a significant change terms of contemporary influences in music, pop culture.
Along with 'Politicising Beyonce', the singer is also due to have a monument built in her honour in her home town of Houston, Texas.
We've heard the likes of Beyonce and Lady Gaga mention Etta James, Aretha Franklin and Madonna as the artists that inspired them to get into music. Now these contemporary pop stars are influencing the next generation.
Flick through the gallery to see PopDash's chronological look at the most influential female artists of all time.
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