Who are the top artists on Spotify?

As we venture deeper into the year 2025, the world of music streaming continues to evolve, and Spotify remains at the forefront of this revolution. With millions of artists striving to capture the audience's attention, some have emerged as the most listened to and followed artists on Spotify. In this article, we'll discover the most listened to artists on Spotify and identify the most followed artist on the platform.

Most Listened to Artists on Spotify in 2025

Spotify's platform offers a unique opportunity for artists to reach a global audience. The following artists have made a significant impact and garnered billions of streams:

1. Bad Bunny

Continuing his reign at the top, Bad Bunny has solidified his position as one of the most listened to artists on Spotify. His unique blend of Latin trap and reggaeton appeals to a broad audience, and his dynamic performances keep his fans coming back for more.

2. Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift's dominance in the music industry is undeniable. With her masterful storytelling and evocative lyrics, her albums are a reflection of her personal growth and experiences. Her ability to connect with listeners worldwide has made her one of Spotify's most listened to artists.

3. Drake

The Canadian rapper Drake continues to break records and top the charts with his innovative approach to hip-hop and R&B. His frequent releases and collaborations with other top artists ensure his music stays relevant and fresh.

4. The Weeknd

Known for his distinct voice and melodramatic themes, The Weeknd remains one of the most streamed artists on Spotify. His ability to seamlessly blend R&B with pop elements has captivated a global audience.

5. BTS

The South Korean boy band BTS have made a massive impact on the global music scene. Their catchy tunes, synchronized dance moves, and dedicated fan base, known as the ARMY, have ensured massive streams on Spotify.

Most Followed Artist on Spotify in 2025

Beyond the streams, having a massive following on Spotify is a significant achievement for any artist. It represents loyal fan engagement and the potential for impactful music releases. As of 2025, the most followed artist on Spotify is:

Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran has maintained an unparalleled connection with his audience through his heartfelt lyrics and relatable songs. With over 100 million followers, he stands as the most followed artist on Spotify. His consistency in producing hit songs and his approachable demeanor have endeared him to listeners worldwide.

The Power of Playlists in Artist Promotion

One of the most effective ways for artists to gain exposure and increase their streaming numbers on Spotify is by getting their songs placed on curated playlists. These playlists can introduce music to new listeners who may not have discovered it otherwise. As an artist looking to boost your presence on Spotify, it's crucial to understand the importance of playlist pitching.

How to Get Your Music on Spotify Playlists

Pitching to a Digital Streaming Platform (DSP) like Spotify involves sending key information to the DSP curators to include your track on a curated playlist. This process requires an understanding of your target audience and the type of playlists that best match your music style.

• Research: Identify playlists that align with your genre and audience.
• Prepare: Have a compelling pitch, sharing unique aspects of your song and artist profile.
• Submit: Use Spotify for Artists' toolkit to submit your music for playlist consideration.

For artists aiming to grow their fan base and maximize streams, using platforms like SoundOn can streamline the process of music distribution and promotion. By leveraging SoundOn, artists can connect with TikTok, CapCut, and other exclusive partners to reach new fans and build a successful music career.

Conclusion: The Future of Music Streaming

As we move forward in 2025, the competition among artists on Spotify continues to intensify. The most listened to artists such as Bad Bunny, Taylor Swift, Drake, The Weeknd, and BTS have set the bar high. Meanwhile, Ed Sheeran's title as the most followed artist signifies the importance of artist-fan relationships.

Understanding and utilizing the power of playlists, along with effective distribution platforms like SoundOn, is crucial for upcoming artists striving to make their mark in the music industry. The dynamic landscape of music streaming promises exciting opportunities for artists and listeners alike.