THR Names Music's 35 Top Hitmakers

This story first appeared in the Feb. 15 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.

His mind-boggling success rate -- more than 40 hit singles since 2004 -- is proof the U.S. has a new King of Pop. It's no wonder, since the New York native was mentored by top-level titan Max Martin. "I love him to death," says Luke (ne Lukasz Gottwald), 39, adding, "I learn from my writers as much as they're learning from me." After scoring his first global smash in 2004 with Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone," the L.A.-based Luke and his posse (see opposite) have been unstoppable. "California Gurls," "Tik Tok" and "Price Tag" are just a few of the No. 1s he's notched for Katy Perry, Ke$ha and Jessie J, respectively. His secret? "I'm always petrified that this is my last good song." Until the next one comes along.

Read Dr. Luke's full Q&A here.

Click here to read THR's complete Pop's Top 35 Hitmakers list.