When it comes to ranking artists based on popularity, many lists rely on subjective criteria such as fame or likeability. However, in the case of Spotify’s top artists, the data is crystal clear – the number of streams.
Spotify’s streaming metrics provide a reliable and measurable indicator of an artist’s popularity, making it one of the best methods for analysis in the modern digital era.
Most-Streamed Artists of All Time on Spotify
In this article, we’ll explore the ten most-streamed artists on Spotify and uncover some fascinating insights into their success and influence on the platform.
| Rank | Artist | Monthly Streamers (Millions) |
| 1 | The Weeknd | 95.57 |
| 2 | Ed Sheeran | 81.48 |
| 3 | Taylor Swift | 81.03 |
| 4 | Justin Bieber | 79.3 |
| 5 | Sam Smith | 75.1 |
| 6 | Ariana Grande | 73.4 |
| 7 | David Guetta | 72.8 |
| 8 | Drake | 69.2 |
| 9 | Rihanna | 69.2 |
| 10 | Bad Bunny | 68.16 |
| 11 | Harry Styles | 65.84 |
| 12 | Coldplay | 64.88 |
| 13 | Eminem | 65.10 |
| 14 | Shakira | 64.78 |
| 15 | Dua Lipa | 63.05 |
| 16 | SZA | 62.27 |
| 17 | Lady Gaga | 59.77 |
| 18 | Elton John | 58.66 |
| 19 | 21 Savage | 58.59 |
| 20 | Sia | 56 |
1. Drake
Streams: 82 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| Views (2016) | 7,687,247 | 2016 |
| Take Care (2011) | 6,920,000 | 2011 |
| Scorpion (2018) | 6,433,983 | 2018 |
| Nothing Was the Same (2013) | 4,595,000 | 2013 |
| More Life (2017) | 4,005,250 | 2017 |
| If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late (2015) | 3,480,000 | 2015 |
| Thank Me Later (2010) | 3,460,000 | 2010 |
| Certified Lover Boy (2021) | 2,379,500 | 2021 |
| What a Time to Be Alive (2015) | 2,190,000 | 2015 |
| So Far Gone (2009) | 540,000 | 2009 |
| Dark Lane Demo Tapes (2020) | 222,198 | 2020 |
| Her Loss (2022) – 21 SAVAGE & DRAKE | 110,000 | 2022 |
| Honestly, Nevermind (2022) – DRAKE | 70,000 | 2022 |
| Care Package (2019) | 60,000 | 2019 |
| One Night Only (2014) | 20,000 | 2014 |
Drake takes the crown as the most-streamed artist on Spotify, with a staggering 82 million streams. His music resonates with millions of fans worldwide, and his discography boasts numerous chart-topping hits.
As a lead artist, Drake has amassed 55 million streams, solidifying his position as a true streaming sensation. His solo tracks have garnered 31 million streams, while his features on other artists’ songs have raked in an impressive 26 million streams.
A master of hip-hop and R&B, Drake’s ability to synchronize his lyrics with hip-hop instrumentals has been revolutionary.
His music continues to win the hearts of audiences globally, solidifying his position as one of the world’s most influential hip-hop artists.
2. Bad Bunny
Streams: 65 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| YHLQMDLG (2020) | 2,304,000 | 2020 |
| EL ÚLTIMO TOUR DEL MUNDO (2020) | 1,267,000 | 2020 |
| X 100PRE (2018) | 865,000 | 2018 |
| OASIS (2019) | 560,000 | 2019 |
| UN VERANO SIN TI (2022) | 410,000 | 2022 |
| LAS QUE NO IBAN A SALIR (2020) | 335,000 | 2020 |
Bad Bunny secures the second spot on our list, amassing 65 million streams. The Puerto Rican superstar has taken the music world by storm with his unique style and captivating performances.
As a lead artist, Bad Bunny’s tracks have accumulated 39 million streams, while his solo contributions have garnered 22 million streams. Additionally, his features have earned him 25 million streams, showcasing his versatility and widespread appeal.
His music appeals to a wide audience, covering a range of topics from heartbreak to LGBTQ acceptance. Despite his rapid rise to fame, Bad Bunny remains grounded and down-to-earth.
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3. Taylor Swift
Streams: 53 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| 1989 (2014) | 14,748,116 | 2014 |
| Fearless (2008) | 11,911,000 | 2008 |
| Red (2012) | 8,889,124 | 2012 |
| Taylor Swift (2006) | 7,275,000 | 2006 |
| Speak Now (2010) | 6,917,500 | 2010 |
| Reputation (2017) | 6,186,524 | 2017 |
| Lover (2019) | 5,686,733 | 2019 |
| Folklore (2020) | 4,360,487 | 2020 |
| Midnights (2022) | 3,387,836 | 2022 |
| Evermore (2020) | 1,998,779 | 2020 |
| Red (Taylor’s Version) (2021) | 1,693,632 | 2021 |
| Fearless (Taylor’s Version) (2021) | 1,557,687 | 2021 |
| The Taylor Swift Holiday Collection (2007) | 1,000,000 | 2007 |
| Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions (From the Disney+ Special) (2020) | 86,789 | 2020 |
Taylor Swift’s undeniable talent and artistry have earned her the third position on this list with 53 million streams. As a lead artist, she boasts an impressive 51 million streams, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the music industry.
Her solo tracks alone have accumulated 46 million streams, while her features have contributed 2 million streams.
Her songs, often based on personal experiences, have garnered massive attention and discussions among listeners. Swift’s willingness to experiment with different genres showcases her versatility as an artist.
4. The Weeknd
Streams: 51 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| Beauty Behind the Madness (2015) | 7,584,588 | 2015 |
| Starboy (2016) | 6,070,666 | 2016 |
| After Hours (2020) | 4,958,942 | 2020 |
| The Highlights (2021) | 2,116,000 | 2021 |
| Trilogy (2012) | 1,360,000 | 2012 |
| My Dear Melancholy (2018) | 1,201,541 | 2018 |
| Kiss Land (2013) | 640,000 | 2013 |
| Dawn FM (2022) | 340,000 | 2022 |
| House of Balloons (2011) | 180,000 | 2011 |
With 51 million streams, The Weeknd takes the fourth spot on our list. Known for his soulful voice and captivating performances, The Weeknd has won the hearts of millions of listeners.
As a lead artist, he has garnered 41 million streams, while his solo tracks have earned him 30 million streams. Additionally, his features have contributed 10 million streams to his overall success.
Influenced by the likes of Michael Jackson, he has released several studio albums and mixtapes, leaving a lasting impact on the music world.
In addition to his music, The Weeknd’s personal life often makes headlines, adding to his allure.
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5. Justin Bieber
Streams: 46 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| Purpose (2015) | 14,000,000 | 2015 |
| My World 2.0 / My Worlds (2010) | 5,235,395 | 2010 |
| Believe (2012) | 4,141,507 | 2012 |
| My World (2009) | 3,980,000 | 2009 |
| Justice (2021) | 3,793,131 | 2021 |
| Under the Mistletoe (2011) | 2,700,725 | 2011 |
| Changes (2020) | 2,182,351 | 2020 |
| Never Say Never – The Remixes (2011) | 1,133,000 | 2011 |
| Journals (2013) | 1,080,000 | 2013 |
| My Worlds Acoustic (2010) | 809,000 | 2010 |
| Believe Acoustic (2013) | 735,000 | 2013 |
Justin Bieber’s incredible journey from a teen sensation to a streaming star lands him in the fifth position with 46 million streams. His tracks have accumulated 27 million streams as a lead artist, while his solo contributions amount to 16 million streams.
Moreover, his features have added an impressive 19 million streams to his already remarkable streaming statistics.
he has captured the hearts of millions with his music that focuses on romance and relationships. His ability to evolve alongside his audience has allowed him to maintain his popularity over the years.
6. Ed Sheeran
Streams: 45 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| Divide (2017) | 13,787,460 | 2017 |
| X (2014) | 11,879,785 | 2014 |
| + (2011) | 7,705,000 | 2011 |
| No. 6 Collaborations Project (2019) | 2,631,838 | 2019 |
| = (2021) | 1,862,489 | 2021 |
| No. 5 Collaborations Project (2011) | 1,134,617 | 2011 |
| – (2023) | 100,000 | 2023 |
| Loose Change (2011) | 60,000 | 2011 |
Ed Sheeran, the acoustic maestro, holds the sixth spot on our list with 45 million streams. As a lead artist, he boasts an impressive 40 million streams, with his solo tracks amassing 33 million streams.
Additionally, his features have earned him 5 million streams, highlighting his collaborations’ popularity among listeners.
Hits like “Shape of You” and “Perfect” have broken records and earned him a place as one of the leading artists in the music industry. His involvement in charity campaigns and contributions to various causes have earned him the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
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7. Eminem
Streams: 41 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| The Marshall Mathers LP (2000) | 32,000,000 | 2000 |
| The Eminem Show (2002) | 20,896,750 | 2002 |
| Curtain Call: The Hits (2005) | 15,733,091 | 2005 |
| Recovery (2010) | 10,873,795 | 2010 |
| Encore (2004) | 8,918,504 | 2004 |
| The Slim Shady LP (1999) | 8,462,300 | 1999 |
| The Marshall Mathers LP 2 (2013) | 5,790,318 | 2013 |
| Relapse (2009) | 4,415,000 | 2009 |
| Kamikaze (2018) | 2,100,010 | 2018 |
| Revival (2017) | 2,099,810 | 2017 |
| Music to Be Murdered By (2020) | 1,826,373 | 2020 |
| Eminem Presents The Re-Up (2006) | 1,418,078 | 2006 |
| ShadyXV (2014) | 310,000 | 2014 |
| Music to Be Murdered By – Side B (Deluxe Edition) (2020) | 122,832 | 2020 |
| Curtain Call 2 (2022) | 100,000 | 2022 |
Eminem’s influence in the rap genre and beyond secures him the seventh position on our list with 41 million streams.
As a lead artist, his tracks have accumulated 34 million streams, with his solo contributions amassing 21 million streams. Eminem’s features have garnered 6 million streams, reflecting the enduring appeal of his collaborations.
Known for his unparalleled lyrical prowess and thought-provoking music, he has solidified his place in hip-hop history.
Despite starting his career in the early 1990s, Eminem’s style has remained relevant, and he is often compared to legends like Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan. His impact on US music culture is undeniable, and his achievements include an Oscar for his iconic track “Lose Yourself.”
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8. Ariana Grande
Streams: 39 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| Thank U, Next (2019) | 3,775,436 | 2019 |
| Dangerous Woman (2016) | 3,632,374 | 2016 |
| My Everything (2014) | 3,506,212 | 2014 |
| Sweetener (2018) | 1,994,479 | 2018 |
| Positions (2020) | 1,603,367 | 2020 |
| Yours Truly (2013) | 1,305,000 | 2013 |
Ariana Grande’s impressive vocal range and captivating performances land her in the eighth position with 39 million streams.
As a lead artist, she has accumulated 32 million streams, with her solo tracks alone earning 22 million streams. Additionally, her features have contributed to 6 million streams, solidifying her status as a true streaming powerhouse.
Renowned for her four-octave vocal range and impressive vocal abilities, she has been compared to vocal powerhouse Mariah Carey. Beyond her music, Ariana actively supports various charities and causes, making her a beloved figure among her fans.
9. J Balvin
Streams: 38 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| Vibras (2018) | 780,000 | 2018 |
| Energia (2016) | 601,000 | 2016 |
| Oasis (2019) | 560,000 | 2019 |
| Jose (2021) | 535,000 | 2021 |
| Colores (2020) | 370,000 | 2020 |
| La Familia (2013) | 260,000 | 2013 |
J Balvin’s undeniable impact on the Latin music scene secures him the ninth position on our list with 38 million streams.
As a lead artist, he has garnered 17 million streams, with his solo tracks amassing 5 million streams. Moreover, his features have earned him 21 million streams, highlighting his widespread influence and appeal.
His distinctive style sets him apart from the aggressive rhythms prevalent in reggaeton, making his music a breath of fresh air for listeners. Balvin’s popularity has earned him a place among the top musicians on Spotify.
J Balvin experimented with various musical styles before finding his niche in reggaeton. Inspired by the legendary Daddy Yankee, Balvin’s journey involved several transformations, ultimately leading to the creation of his unique musical identity.
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10. Post Malone
Streams: 36 Million
| Album Name | Album Sales | Release Date |
| Vibras (2018) | 780,000 | 2018 |
| Energia (2016) | 601,000 | 2016 |
| Oasis (2019) | 560,000 | 2019 |
| Jose (2021) | 535,000 | 2021 |
| Colores (2020) | 370,000 | 2020 |
| La Familia (2013) | 260,000 | 2013 |
Post Malone takes the tenth spot on our list with 36 million streams. Known for his genre-blending style and emotive performances,
Post Malone’s music resonates with fans worldwide. As a lead artist, his tracks have accumulated 33 million streams, while his solo contributions have earned him 18 million streams. Additionally, his features have contributed to 3 million streams, adding to his overall streaming success.
He has proven his ability to resonate with listeners across genres. What’s even more impressive is that he achieved this success in just a few short years, debuting in 2013.
Inspired by musical legends like Bob Dylan and influenced by artists like 50 Cent, Kurt Cobain, and Johnny Cash, Post Malone’s unique sound continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Finally,
The list of the ten most-streamed artists on Spotify paints a fascinating picture of modern music’s streaming landscape.
With Drake, Bad Bunny, Taylor Swift, and others dominating the platform, it’s evident that streaming has become a vital metric for measuring an artist’s popularity and reach.
As streaming platforms continue to shape the music industry, these artists have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions of listeners worldwide.
FAQs
Who is the most-streamed artist on Spotify?
Drake holds the title of the most-streamed artist on Spotify.
Which female artist has the most streams on Spotify?
Taylor Swift ranks as the top female artist with the most streams on Spotify.
Is streaming the most popular way people listen to music today?
Yes, streaming has become the most popular way people consume music in the digital age.
Does Spotify only track individual artists’ streams, or does it count collaborations too?
Spotify tracks both individual artists’ streams and their collaborations with other artists.