2002
in MusicAlbums
19
Artists
17
Milestones
26
Notable Releases
This Is Me... Then
Jennifer LopezHer third studio album inspired by her relationship with Ben Affleck, featuring the US number-one single 'All I Have' and achieving the highest opening sales week of her career at that time.
The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin
Kirk FranklinSolo album topping Gospel Albums chart for 29 weeks, achieving No. 1 on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and platinum certification with collaborations from Bishop T.D. Jakes, Shirley Caesar, and others.
Justified
Justin TimberlakeTimberlake's debut solo album that established him as a solo artist with R&B influence. Sold over 10 million copies worldwide and spawned hit singles including 'Cry Me a River' and 'Rock Your Body'.
Cry Me a River
Justin TimberlakeBreakthrough hit single ranked #20 on Rolling Stone's 100 Best Songs of the 2000s. The song became one of his most iconic tracks and established his solo career credibility.
Stripped
Christina AguileraA provocative album marking her departure from her teen idol image, selling 12 million copies globally. It became one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century and demonstrated her artistic reinvention.
Beautiful
Christina AguileraAn empowering ballad about embracing inner beauty that reached number two on the Hot 100 and became a LGBT anthem. The song won the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
A Moment Like This
Kelly ClarksonDebut double A-side single that broke a 38-year-old Beatles record for biggest leap to number one and became the best-selling single of 2002 in the United States.
MTV Unplugged No. 2.0
Lauryn HillHill's Grammy-nominated live album featuring her singing and acoustic guitar, peaked within the Billboard 200's top five and received platinum certification. Though divisive among critics, it showcased her artistic evolution during her hiatus from public life.
Significant Milestones
Grammy Awards Sweep
Grammy WinWon five Grammy Awards at the 44th Annual Grammy Awards, tying Lauryn Hill's record for most Grammy wins for a woman solo artist in a year
Co-founding of DATA
AchievementBono co-founded DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa) with Bobby Shriver and activists, beginning his major institutional involvement in fighting extreme poverty and HIV/AIDS in Africa.
This Is Me... Then Release
AchievementLopez released her third studio album This Is Me... Then, which featured the hit single 'Jenny from the Block' and achieved the highest opening sales week of her career at that time.
Through the Wire
AchievementFollowing a car accident that shattered his jaw, West recorded "Through the Wire" with his jaw wired shut, released on Get Well Soon mixtape.
Film debut in Crossroads
DebutMade her starring film role debut in Crossroads, which grossed over $61.1 million worldwide despite mixed critical reviews, with her acting praised by critics.
Solo Career Launch
DebutReleased debut solo album Justified and performed first solo single 'Like I Love You' at MTV Video Music Awards. Marked his transition from boy band member to solo artist.
Stripped Album and Image Reinvention
AchievementReleased her provocative fourth studio album marking a departure from her teen idol image, becoming one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century with 12 million copies sold globally.
Marriage to Gavin Rossdale
AchievementStefani married Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale in London and Los Angeles, beginning a 13-year marriage that would produce three sons.
American Idol Victory
DebutWon the first season of American Idol on September 4, 2002, earning 58% of votes against runner-up Justin Guarini, launching her to international fame.
Record-Breaking Debut Single
DebutReleased 'A Moment Like This,' which broke a 38-year-old Beatles record for the biggest leap to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The Osbournes MTV Premiere
Cultural MomentReality television series premiered March 5, 2002, becoming MTV's greatest hit and making Osbourne a mainstream cultural icon
Management Deal
AchievementSigned to Simon Fuller's 19 Management and subsequently signed a publishing deal with EMI, establishing early career foundation.
