TIME has debuted the new covers for 2019’s Most Influential People list. Standout honorees include Ariana Grande, Pat McGrath and Clare Waight Keller. Former U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama joins the group receiving a heartfelt note from Beyoncé. Actresses who have been challenging the status quo are highlighted on the list as well. Game of Thrones‘ Emilia Clarke, Killing Eve‘s Sandro Oh and Roma‘s Yalitza Aparicio are also featured. Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga are recognized as icons reaching new heights in their careers. K-pop boy band BTS, Khalid and LeBron James round out the group. Singer-song-writer Halsey writes a touching note to BTS:
How exactly does one accomplish world domination? Surely it takes remarkable talent, charm, kindness, altruism and dedication. But you’d still be missing a key component: a devoted community to uplift your efforts, soften your stumbles and shoot light from their eyes into the sky in your name every single night.
By these parameters, BTS has reached the top. Over the past few years, the K-pop group has taken the music industry by storm—shattering sales records, gathering accolades and performing across the globe for head-spinning audiences—all the while remaining exemplary ambassadors for their Korean culture. But behind those three letters are seven astounding young men who believe that music is stronger than the barriers of language. It’s a universal dialect.
Head over to TIME to peep the full 100 Most Influential People and preview the covers below.
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