The first iPod was sold back in November 2001, nearly five and a half years ago. Since that time, Apple has introduced more than 10 new iPod models, including five generations of iPod, two generations of iPod mini, two generations of iPod nano, two generations of iPod shuffle, and a partridge in a pear tree. Okay, so maybe that last one wasn't from Apple. Still thanks to the iPod and the growing success of Apple's iTunes service, Apple has undeniably transformed how tens of millions of people acquire, manage, and use their multimedia files. Apple today announced that it has sold its 100 millionth iPod, officially making it the fastest selling music player in history.

“At this historic milestone, we want to thank music lovers everywhere for making iPod such an incredible success,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “iPod has helped millions of people around the world rekindle their passion for music, and we’re thrilled to be a part of that.”

To mark the occasion, Apple turned the mic over to a variety of different celebrities to get their views on how the iPod has shaped the multimedia industry.

“It’s hard to remember what I did before the iPod,” said Grammy Award-winning singer, Mary J. Blige. “iPod is more than just a music player, it’s an extension of your personality and a great way to take your favorite music with you everywhere you go.”

According to singer-songwriter and guitarist John Mayer, “Without the iPod, the digital music age would have been defined by files and folders instead of songs and albums.” The Grammy Award-winning artist went on to say, “Though the medium of music has changed, the iPod experience has kept the spirit of what it means to be a music lover alive."

Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France champion chimed in, saying, “I take my running shoes and my iPod with me everywhere. I listen to music when I run. Having my music with me is really motivating.”

Apple's dominance of the music industry is only the beginning. The company recently released its Apple TV device, which allows users to watch their favorite downloaded content on their television sets, courtesy of a wireless connection provided by the Apple TV. And later this year, Apple will be tapping into the mobile phone market with the release of its mega-hyped iPhone.