It's only October, but Billboard doesn't need any more time to choose its Woman of the Year. Pop-country superstar Taylor Swift is this year's recipient. Swift will be honored at the 2011 Billboard Women in Music event at Capitale in New York on Dec. 2, and at 21, she is the youngest person ever to receive the recognition.

"Taylor has shown the power of good songwriting with music that has transcended genres," says Billboard Editorial Director Bill Werde. "At the young age of 21, Taylor has already made a major impact on music and has been an incredible role model for aspiring singers/songwriters and young women everywhere."

Swift's 'Speak Now' earned the 2011 Billboard Music Award for Top Country Album and has spawned several hits. She is a contender for Entertainer of the Year at the CMA Awards and will be releasing a 'Speak Now World Tour Live' CD/DVD package in November.

Billboard praises her philanthropic efforts as well, pointing out that she donated more than $1 million to charity and has supported clean water, literacy, and disaster relief causes.

It's been a great year for female artists in music, with Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, Adele and Rihanna all lighting up the charts, so Swift's honor is an especially impressive achievement. Last year's winner was Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas.

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