Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries, connects people, and resonates with the heart. YouTube has become the go-to platform for artists to share their art, build their fan base, and even break records! In 2024, music channels are among the most-subscribed categories on YouTube, with millions grooving to the beats.
According to Brandwatch, 93% of the most-watched videos on YouTube were music videos in 2020. Music also makes up 5% of all content on YouTube and 20% of total views according to a study by PEX in 2019.
So who’s leading the pack in this digital concert? Let’s find out! And hey, if your favorite artist isn’t on this list, don’t fret; maybe they’re just stuck in buffering!
Top 16 Most Subscribed Music Artists on YouTube
1. Blackpink
Subscribers: 94 Million
Video views: 35 Billion
Country: South Korea
Blackpink, the sensational K-Pop girl group, has been taking the world by storm since 2016. Known for hits like “How You Like That” and “Kill This Love,” they’ve won numerous awards and are particularly successful in Asia and the United States. The band is also the most viewed music channel on YouTube.
2. BTS (BANGTANTV)
Subscribers: 78 Million
Video views: 23 Billion
Country: South Korea
BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys, has taken the world by storm with their blend of K-Pop, hip-hop, and R&B.
Formed in 2013, the group consists of seven members: RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Their albums, such as “Love Yourself: Tear” and “Map of the Soul: 7,” have broken numerous records.
Their global success is marked by sold-out concerts, numerous awards and a dedicated fanbase known as the “ARMY.” BTS’s channel, BANGTANTV, offers a blend of music videos, live performances, and behind-the-scenes content, providing fans with an intimate look into their musical journey.
3. Justin Bieber
Subscribers: 73 Million
Video views: 32 Billion
Country: Canada
Justin Bieber’s YouTube channel showcases his transformation from a teen sensation to a global pop icon. With hits like “Baby” and “Sorry,” Bieber’s appeal lies in his versatile music style, collaborations, and consistent chart-toppers.
Justin Bieber is also the second most viewed music artist on YouTube in 2024.
4. Eminem
Subscribers: 60 Million
Video views: 30 Billion
Country: United States
Eminem, the Rap God, has been a dominant force in the music industry for decades. His intricate lyrics, iconic albums like “The Marshall Mathers LP,” and collaborations with other legends have made him one of the most influential rappers ever.
5. Taylor Swift
Subscribers: 58 Million
Video views: 34 Billion
Country: United States
Taylor Swift has evolved from a country starlet to a global pop icon. Her storytelling lyrics in albums like “1989” and “folklore” have won her 12 Grammy Awards.
Known for hits like “Love Story” and “Blank Space,” Taylor’s music resonates with fans across the United States, Europe, and Australia. Her channel documents her musical evolution connecting her with the “Swifties,” her dedicated fanbase.
6. Marshmello
Subscribers: 57 Million
Video views: 16 Billion
Country: United States
The masked DJ Marshmello has captivated audiences with his unique blend of electronic music. Hits like “Alone” and “Happier” have cemented his place as a leading figure in the EDM scene, earning him worldwide fame.
7. Ed Sheeran
Subscribers: 55 Million
Video views: 32 Billion
Country: United Kingdom
Sheeran’s soulful voice and acoustic melodies have won hearts globally. Famous for songs like “Shape of You” and “Thinking Out Loud,” Ed’s ability to mix different music genres has made him a household name.
8. Ariana Grande
Subscribers: 54 Million
Video views: 26 Billion
Country: United States
Ariana Grande’s powerful vocals and pop-R&B style have catapulted her to stardom. With hits like “Thank U, Next” and “7 Rings,” she’s a modern-day diva who continues to influence the pop culture landscape.
9. Billie Eilish
Subscribers: 49 Million
Video views: 15 Billion
Country: United States
Billie Eilish’s unique voice and avant-garde style have made her a standout artist. Her haunting voice and dark, introspective lyrics have captured a worldwide audience.
Billie’s breakthrough single “Ocean Eyes” led to her debut album “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” which featured hits like “Bad Guy” and “Bury a Friend”.
Blending elements of pop, electronic, and alternative music, she has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys. Billie is not just a musical sensation but a fashion icon known for her unique and often avant-garde style. Her authentic connection with her audience and willingness to address topics like mental health have made her one of the most influential artists of her generation.
10. Bad Bunny
Subscribers: 48 Million
Video views: 34 Billion
Country: Puerto Rico
Bad Bunny, a Latin trap and reggaeton artist, has been instrumental in popularizing these genres globally. Collaborations with other artists like J Balvin and Cardi B have brought him international acclaim.
Known for his bold fashion choices and social activism, he’s won Latin Grammy Awards and is particularly successful in Latin America, the United States, and Spain. His channel showcases his vibrant music videos and unique artistic personality.
11. Alan Walker
Subscribers: 45 Million
Video views: 14 Billion
Country: United Kingdom / Norway
Alan Walker is a British-Norwegian DJ known for his electronic hits like “Faded.” His signature sound has become synonymous with the modern EDM movement, earning him a spot among the top DJs.
12. Katy Perry
Subscribers: 45 Million
Video views: 27 Billion
Country: United States
Katy Perry’s colorful personality and pop anthems like “Firework” and “Roar” have made her one of the most recognizable artists of her generation.
Her creativity in music videos has also contributed to her success. Her Super Bowl performance and American Idol judging role have kept her in the spotlight.
13. Rihanna
Subscribers: 43 Million
Video views: 24 Billion
Country: Barbados
Robyn Rihanna Fenty, known globally as Rihanna has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Her blend of R&B, pop, and dance music in albums like “Good Girl Gone Bad” and “Anti” has produced chart-topping hits such as “Umbrella,” “Diamonds,” and “We Found Love”.
Collaborations with artists like Eminem and Drake have further showcased her versatile talent.
Rihanna’s influence now extends beyond music into fashion and beauty, with her Fenty brand leading the way in inclusivity.
14. XXXTentacion
Subscribers: 40 Million
Video views: 11 Billion
Country: United States
XXXTentacion’s emotional and raw music has left an indelible mark. Though his life was tragically cut short, his influence in the rap and hip-hop community continues through songs like “SAD!” and “Look at Me!”
15. Daddy Yankee
Subscribers: 39 Million
Video views: 24 Billion
Country: Puerto Rico
Daddy Yankee, the King of Reggaeton, has been instrumental in popularizing Latin music worldwide. His energetic performances and hits like “Gasolina” have made him a trailblazer in the genre.
16. One Direction
Subscribers: 39 Million
Video views: 14 Billion
Country: United Kingdom
One Direction, the British-Irish boy band formed on “The X Factor” in 2010, became a global phenomenon with their fresh and energetic pop-rock sound.
Comprising members Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and formerly Zayn Malik, the group quickly soared to stardom with hits like “What Makes You Beautiful,” “Story of My Life,” and “Drag Me Down.”
Their albums, including “Up All Night” and “Four,” have topped charts across the United States, Europe, Australia, and beyond.
These singers have won numerous awards, including BRIT Awards and MTV Video Music Awards. Even after their hiatus, their YouTube channel continues to attract millions.
A Final Note on YouTube’s Music Titans
The harmony of talent, creativity, and digital innovation has composed the success stories of these 16 extraordinary music artists on YouTube.
From diverse backgrounds and musical genres, they have converged on a platform that transcends borders and connects hearts. Their channels are not merely a showcase of melodies and lyrics but a reflection of their journeys, struggles, triumphs, and the cultural zeitgeist of our times.
Yet, in the ever-changing landscape of music, new talents are always on the horizon, poised to inspire and possibly surpass the achievements of the current stars.
The dynamism of YouTube ensures that a new generation of singers and musicians will continue to emerge, innovate, and redefine the musical landscape.
As we celebrate the present icons, we also look forward to the future symphonies that will resonate with a whole new audience.
So, turn up the volume, explore the classics, and keep an ear out for the next big thing. The concert on YouTube never truly ends!
And if you want to find out who are the top channels on YouTube of all categories, here is a list of the most subscribed channels of the year on YouTube.
