The 10 Most Streamed and Successful Albums of All Time
Streaming has transformed the way we listen to music, offering a new metric for success beyond traditional album sales. Artists now have the ability to reach millions of listeners worldwide, with streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music tracking plays as a measure of popularity. Here’s a look at the 10 most streamed and successful albums of all time, based on streaming figures and cultural impact.
1. Ed Sheeran – ÷ (Divide) (2017)
Ed Sheeran’s Divide is a streaming giant, featuring massive hits like “Shape of You” and “Perfect.” With billions of streams across platforms, this album solidified Sheeran’s status as a global superstar. It effortlessly blends pop, folk, and acoustic elements, making it one of the most listened-to albums ever.
2. The Weeknd – After Hours (2020)
After Hours propelled The Weeknd to new heights, largely due to the success of “Blinding Lights,” which became one of the most streamed songs in history. The album’s sleek production, emotionally raw lyrics, and blend of R&B and synth-pop earned it millions of streams, securing The Weeknd’s place as a dominant force in modern music.
3. Drake – Scorpion (2018)
Drake’s double album Scorpion broke streaming records when it was released, thanks to tracks like “God’s Plan” and “In My Feelings.” The Canadian rapper’s unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop helped make Scorpion one of the most streamed albums on Spotify and Apple Music, proving Drake’s enduring popularity.
4. Billie Eilish – When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? (2019)
Billie Eilish’s debut album took the world by storm, earning her critical acclaim and an impressive number of streams. Songs like “Bad Guy” and “Bury a Friend” quickly became anthems for a generation, while Eilish’s innovative approach to pop and alternative music set new trends in the industry.
5. Post Malone – Hollywood’s Bleeding (2019)
Post Malone’s third studio album, Hollywood’s Bleeding, became an instant streaming sensation with tracks like “Circles” and “Wow.” His unique fusion of rap, pop, and rock made the album appeal to a broad audience, leading to billions of streams and a reputation as one of the most versatile artists of his generation.
6. Ariana Grande – Thank U, Next (2019)
Ariana Grande’s Thank U, Next showcased her growth as an artist, blending R&B, pop, and trap influences. The title track became a cultural phenomenon, while other hits like “7 Rings” ensured that the album would break streaming records and resonate with fans around the globe.
7. Taylor Swift – Folklore (2020)
Taylor Swift’s Folklore marked a departure from her pop roots, embracing a more indie-folk and alternative sound. The album was critically acclaimed and became a streaming success, largely driven by its introspective lyrics and atmospheric production. Songs like “Cardigan” and “Exile” helped Swift reach new audiences.
8. Kendrick Lamar – DAMN. (2017)
Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN. is not only one of the most streamed albums but also one of the most critically acclaimed. Its thought-provoking lyrics, unique beats, and social commentary earned Lamar a Pulitzer Prize and millions of streams, proving that rap can be both commercially successful and intellectually rich.
9. Dua Lipa – Future Nostalgia (2020)
Dua Lipa’s Future Nostalgia brought disco-inspired pop back into the mainstream, with hits like “Don’t Start Now” and “Levitating” dominating streaming charts. The album’s vibrant, retro sound made it a favorite on Spotify and Apple Music, helping Dua Lipa establish herself as one of the top pop stars in the world.
10. Bad Bunny – YHLQMDLG (2020)
Bad Bunny’s YHLQMDLG became the highest-charting all-Spanish-language album in history, earning him massive streaming numbers on platforms like Spotify. Hits like “Safaera” and “Yo Perreo Sola” not only showcased his reggaeton roots but also his ability to break language barriers and connect with fans worldwide.
These albums represent the pinnacle of success in the streaming era, combining popular appeal with critical acclaim. Whether through pop, rap, R&B, or reggaeton, these artists have mastered the art of creating music that resonates with millions of listeners, ensuring their place in music history.