Spotify has emerged as a premier platform for musicians to showcase their work and monitor their progress. Some of the most celebrated artists globally achieve remarkable streaming milestones, with certain tracks exceeding one billion listens. This phenomenon underscores the extensive reach of music and explains why numerous celebrities, including actors, are eager to collaborate with these artists to harness that visibility. Nevertheless, while Spotify boasts a vast audience, it cannot automatically revive the fortunes of less well-known bands; artists must earn their place in the spotlight.
The platform does offer music lovers an extensive library of unforgettable tracks, including classics from decades past. Despite the existence of various other streaming services, Spotify’s accessibility has solidified its status as a go-to for music streaming over the years. Consequently, many songs have amassed impressive streaming numbers, with several making it to the elite realm known as the “billions club.”
From celebrating popular artists like Taylor Swift to paying tribute to legendary figures such as Michael Jackson, an array of iconic musicians — both established and emerging — have found their way into Spotify’s billions club. However, not all of these songs are created equal. Below are ten standout tracks from Spotify’s billion-stream roster, ranked for your enjoyment.
10. Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way
Album: Millennium (1999)
When boy bands come to mind, the Backstreet Boys are often at the forefront. Their influence has spanned decades and multiple album releases, showcasing the incredible synergy and power of group vocals. Their success has paved the way for newer acts like One Direction and others, ensuring the genre’s continued relevance.
From their 13x Platinum album Millennium, “I Want It That Way”stands out, complemented by other hits such as “Larger Than Life.”Its infectious chorus ensures that most listeners can easily recognize and sing along, helping it surpass one billion streams on Spotify.
9. Eminem – Without Me
Album: The Eminem Show (2002)
Eminem frequently ranks among the greatest rappers of all time. His extensive list of achievements, including more than 10 studio albums and a critically acclaimed film, reflects his monumental career. Over his journey, nearly all of his albums have achieved Gold or Platinum status, establishing him as a formidable figure in music.
Among his nine tracks with over one billion streams are “Without Me,””Lose Yourself,”and “Till I Collapse.”Eminem not only boasts one billion-stream songs but has a few others that are close to reaching that milestone. His lyrics and storytelling resonate with diverse audiences, making him a beloved artist across generations.
8. Metallica – Enter Sandman
Album: Metallica (1991)
Since their inception in 1981, Metallica has consistently redefined heavy metal. Their impressive catalog includes 11 albums, spawning classics such as Kill ‘Em All and Master of Puppets. Notably, their self-titled 1991 album, certified 16 times Platinum, features two songs surpassing one billion streams — “Enter Sandman”and “Nothing Else Matters.”
The instantly recognizable riff in “Enter Sandman”has made it a staple in sports and pop culture, often associated with figures like the legendary wrestler The Sandman. As Metallica continues to reach audiences worldwide, more of their tracks may very well join the billion-stream club.
7. Elton John – Cold Heart (Pnau Remix) Feat. Dua Lipa
Album: The Lockdown Sessions (2021)
Sir Elton John has successfully transcended music to become a cultural icon, maintaining a prolific career with countless hits. Through his artistry, he has released multiple collaboration albums, the most recent being The Lockdown Sessions.
Among the standout tracks is “Cold Heart,”a PNAU remix crafted from four of Elton’s classics, featuring Dua Lipa. This fusion has garnered over two billion streams, captivating both younger fans and longtime supporters alike.
6. AC/DC – Thunderstruck
Album: The Razors Edge (1990)
AC/DC has consistently proven their durability as one of rock’s leading bands, producing remarkable music that has stood the test of time. Surviving lineup changes, they released the iconic Back in Black shortly after the loss of lead singer Bon Scott.
5. The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
Album: Abbey Road (1969)
Despite their brief decade-long career, the Beatles have left an indelible mark on the music landscape. In that time, they released a staggering 12 studio albums, setting a standard for countless artists to follow. Abbey Road, known for its legendary cover, includes both “Come Together”and “Here Comes the Sun,”with the latter becoming an unexpected streaming leader.
Surprisingly, “Here Comes the Sun”is currently the only Beatles track to surpass one billion streams on Spotify, a figure that likely would have been much higher had streaming existed during their heyday.
4. Michael Jackson – Billie Jean
Album: Thriller (1982)
Michael Jackson’s legacy is vast and illustrious, marked by countless achievements. Known as the “King of Pop,”he holds the title for the best-selling album in history — Thriller. This iconic record produced unforgettable music videos that defined the 1980s, with “Billie Jean”being one such standout track.
Surprisingly, “Billie Jean,”along with “Beat It,”has surpassed one billion streams, showcasing its continued popularity and influence over time.
3. The Rolling Stones – Paint It, Black
Album: Aftermath (1966)
With a remarkable six-decade career encompassing 31 studio albums, the Rolling Stones are a testament to rock and roll’s longevity. Their catalog includes timeless hits, yet “Paint It, Black”stands out as their most-streamed track on Spotify, credited to its cultural significance and its use in various media.
As they continue to produce music, there’s a strong possibility that the Rolling Stones will add more tracks to their billion-stream roster.
2. Taylor Swift – Cruel Summer
Album: Lover (2019)
Taylor Swift’s evolution as a multi-genre icon has solidified her status as a leading artist today. With record-breaking shows such as The Eras Tour, she has captured fans worldwide, boasting eight songs with over one billion streams on Spotify.
“Cruel Summer”leads the way, with nearly three billion streams, making it a promising candidate for further breaking records in the future.
1. Elvis Presley – Can’t Help Falling In Love
Album: Blue Hawaii (1961)
Elvis Presley, often recognized as the “King of Rock and Roll,”has sold more than 500 million records worldwide, establishing himself as one of the best-selling artists in history. His immense discography includes a variety of influential works across multiple genres.
Remarkably, “Can’t Help Falling In Love,”from his movie soundtrack, has transcended time, becoming a favorite for weddings and dance routines. Its continual popularity has prompted numerous covers by contemporary artists, further solidifying its status as Elvis’s most-streamed track on Spotify.