Music has the power to transcend borders, languages, and generations. While charts measure commercial success, the number of likes on platforms like YouTube and Spotify reflects how deeply audiences connect with a song. In this article, we explore the most liked and streamed songs ever, highlighting the global favorites that continue to dominate hearts and playlists.
Most Liked Songs on YouTube
As of 2025, these music videos have earned the highest number of likes on YouTube—marking their lasting popularity across billions of fans:
Despacito – Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee
With over 50 million likes, Despacito remains the most liked music video on YouTube. Its catchy reggaeton rhythm and cross-cultural appeal made it an instant classic.
See You Again – Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
This heartfelt tribute from Furious 7 has over 40 million likes. Its emotional tone and connection to Paul Walker’s legacy cemented its place in music history.
Dynamite – BTS
BTS’s first all-English single has earned over 35 million likes. The song’s upbeat energy and infectious choreography made it a global anthem during tough times.
Shape of You – Ed Sheeran
With over 30 million likes, this 2017 hit continues to dominate digital platforms thanks to its addictive melody and wide appeal.
Gangnam Style – PSY
The viral phenomenon that broke YouTube’s view counter now holds over 30 million likes. Its iconic dance and humor made it one of the first true viral music hits.
Faded – Alan Walker
This emotional electronic track has garnered over 29 million likes, making it a favorite among fans of ambient and EDM music alike.
Kill This Love – BLACKPINK
K-pop superstars BLACKPINK delivered explosive visuals and a bold sound, earning over 26 million likes from their global fanbase.
Lovely – Billie Eilish & Khalid
With over 27 million likes, this haunting ballad struck a chord with millions for its vulnerability and simplicity.
Baby – Justin Bieber ft. Ludacris
Once known for being the most disliked video on YouTube, Baby has since amassed over 26 million likes, showcasing Bieber’s longevity and evolving fanbase.
Alone – Marshmello
This instrumental EDM track has racked up over 26 million likes, proving the power of AI music even without lyrics.
Most Streamed Songs on Spotify
YouTube may show likes, but Spotify reveals how often people return to a song. These are the most streamed songs ever as of 2025:
Blinding Lights – The Weeknd
Topping Spotify with over 4.8 billion streams, Blinding Lights became a cultural phenomenon with its retro vibe and viral challenges.
Shape of You – Ed Sheeran
Also a YouTube favorite, this song boasts over 4.3 billion Spotify streams, holding top positions on streaming charts for years.
Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi
With over 3.8 billion streams, this heart-wrenching ballad found a massive audience for its emotional honesty and minimal production.
Starboy – The Weeknd & Daft Punk
This collaboration continues to shine with over 3.8 billion streams, blending futuristic production with chart-topping appeal.
As It Was – Harry Styles
The lead single from Styles’ third album crossed 3.8 billion streams, showcasing his evolution as a solo artist.
Sunflower – Post Malone & Swae Lee
Featured in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, this track has racked up over 3.7 billion streams for its breezy sound and crossover appeal.
Sweater Weather – The Neighbourhood
With over 3.7 billion plays, this alt-pop anthem remains a go-to track for nostalgic moods and aesthetic playlists.
One Dance – Drake ft. Wizkid & Kyla
Drake’s summer smash still pulls in streams with its Afrobeat-influenced rhythm and smooth vocals—over 3.6 billion times.
Stay – The Kid Laroi & Justin Bieber
A newer addition to the streaming elite, Stay reached over 3.5 billion streams quickly thanks to its catchy hook and energetic delivery.
Believer – Imagine Dragons
With powerful vocals and heavy beats, Believer has amassed over 3.4 billion streams, popular across genres and generations.
Newer Hits Making Waves
While classics dominate the all-time charts, these recent songs have rapidly climbed the ranks and could soon join the elite:
Die With A Smile – Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars
Released in 2024, this powerful duet became a global No.1 and achieved 1.8 billion streams within months.
Espresso – Sabrina Carpenter
This 2024 single quickly became a global trend, securing over 1 billion streams and topping charts for weeks.
Yeah! – Usher, Ludacris & Lil Jon
After a Super Bowl halftime resurgence in 2024, this early 2000s hit crossed 1 billion streams and earned 13× Platinum status.
Final Thoughts
The most liked and streamed songs ever are more than just chart-toppers—they’re cultural milestones. From emotional ballads and dance anthems to genre-defying collaborations, these tracks represent the soundtrack of a generation. As music continues to evolve, new contenders will rise, but these songs have secured their legacy in digital history.
