Top 10 Romanian Musicians Of The 21st Century

Romania has become a hub for vibrant, diverse music that spans multiple genres from pop to electronic dance music (EDM), rock, and hip-hop. In the 21st century, Romanian artists have achieved both national success and international recognition, influencing the global music scene. Below is a list of 10 musicians from Romania who have shaped the country's music in the 21st century.

1. Inna

Inna (Elena Alexandra Apostoleanu, born 1986) is undeniably one of the most successful Romanian artists on the international stage. Her career took off in 2008 with the release of her hit single "Hot," which quickly gained traction across Europe and beyond. Since then, she has become a global pop sensation with tracks like "Sun Is Up" and "Cola Song". Inna’s upbeat, infectious dance-pop sound has made her a staple in clubs worldwide, and she continues to push boundaries with her catchy tunes and collaborations with other international artists.

2. Edward Maya

Edward Maya (born 1986) brought a fresh blend of Romanian folk sounds and electronic dance music to global audiences with his 2009 hit "Stereo Love." The song became a major international success, charting in countries across Europe, North America, and beyond. Maya’s unique fusion of accordion-like folk instruments with EDM beats set him apart from other artists in the genre. His subsequent work as a producer and DJ has continued to influence the Romanian electronic music scene, earning him recognition as one of Romania's most successful modern music exports.

3. Smiley

Andrei Tiberiu Maria, better known as Smiley (born 1983), is one of the leading figures in Romania’s pop music scene. Starting his career as part of the boy band Simplu, Smiley soon transitioned to a solo career, becoming a household name. With hit songs like "Dream Girl" and "Acasă," he has topped Romanian charts and earned a dedicated fan base. As a producer and TV personality (notably as a coach on The Voice Romania), Smiley is also instrumental in promoting and shaping new musical talent in Romania.

4. Alexandra Stan

Alexandra Stan (born 1989) shot to fame with her breakout hit "Mr. Saxobeat" in 2011, which became a global dance phenomenon. Her fusion of dance-pop with house and saxophone elements helped her establish a unique sound. Stan’s subsequent singles like "Lollipop" and "Lemonade" continued to solidify her place in Romania’s pop scene, and she remains one of the country's most recognized female artists on the global stage. Her energetic performances and catchy tunes keep her in the limelight, both in Romania and internationally.

5. Irina Rimes

Irina Rimes (born 1991) is one of the most popular contemporary voices in Romanian pop music. Known for her emotional and introspective lyrics, she has become a favorite for her heartfelt ballads and modern pop sound. Her debut single "Visele" in 2016 propelled her into the spotlight, and she has since released multiple successful albums and singles. Rimes' ability to blend pop with electronic and indie influences has made her a defining voice for a new generation of Romanian music fans.

6. Carla’s Dreams

Carla’s Dreams is a Moldovan-Romanian band known for its eclectic fusion of pop, rock, and electronic sounds. Emerging in the early 2010s, the group quickly gained popularity for their unique musical style and mysterious identity (the band members perform in face paint and masks). Hits like "Sub Pielea Mea" and "Te Rog" have topped Romanian charts and earned them a cult following. Their lyrical themes often delve into deep emotional topics, resonating with a wide audience, and their innovative approach has made them a mainstay in the Romanian music scene.

7. The Motans

Another act that blends pop, rock, and electronic influences is The Motans, a project fronted by Denis Roabeș. Their rise to fame began with hits like "Versus" and "Weekend," which earned widespread radio play in Romania. The Motans’ reflective, poetic lyrics and melodic sound have resonated with many young listeners, and the band continues to dominate Romanian pop charts. Their collaborations with other Romanian artists have further expanded their reach, solidifying their position in the Romanian music landscape.

8. Delia

Delia Matache, known simply as Delia (born 1982), is a versatile singer who has evolved from her early pop days with the duo N&D into one of Romania’s most successful solo artists. Delia’s music spans genres, including pop, electronic, and even rock influences, making her one of the most versatile performers in Romania. Her ability to reinvent herself musically while maintaining widespread popularity has made her a key figure in Romanian pop culture. Songs like "Da, Mamă" and "Pe aripi de vânt" have cemented her as a chart-topping artist.

9. Antonia

Antonia Iacobescu (born 1989) is a Romanian-American singer and model who has made a significant impact on the Romanian music scene. Antonia became a household name with hits like "Morena" and "Marabou," blending sultry pop sounds with dance and R&B elements. Her magnetic stage presence and collaboration with some of Romania’s top producers have helped her maintain relevance in the competitive pop scene. Antonia’s international background has also contributed to her wide appeal, making her a global ambassador of Romanian pop music.

10. Grasu XXL

For fans of Romanian hip-hop, Grasu XXL (born Dragoș Nichifor, 1981) is one of the most influential figures in the genre. He started his career in the early 2000s and quickly became known for his smooth delivery and clever wordplay. Grasu XXL has collaborated with many top Romanian artists, blending hip-hop with pop, R&B, and trap elements. His hit songs like "Prea mult fum" and "La La Song" have made him a major figure in Romania’s urban music scene. Grasu XXL continues to be a powerful force in Romanian rap, with a career that spans over two decades.

Conclusion

Romania's music scene in the 21st century is marked by an eclectic mix of genres and artists, with many achieving international success. From the global pop stardom of Inna and Edward Maya to the emotional depth of Irina Rimes and the distinctive sound of Carla’s Dreams, these artists showcase the diverse talent that Romania has to offer. Each of these musicians has made a lasting impact on both Romanian and international music, ensuring that Romania’s voice continues to resonate on the world stage.