The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) has released its 2025 Global Recording Artist Chart, spotlighting the biggest names in music worldwide based on streaming, physical sales, downloads, and overall consumption. The chart, officially released in early 2026, confirms Taylor Swift as the most dominant global artist for the sixth time in her career, solidifying her status at the top of the music industry.
Taylor Swift’s continued dominance, reportedly her fourth consecutive year at #1, is a testament to her unmatched global reach and loyal fanbase. Her performance across albums, singles, and streaming platforms ensured she outpaced both established and rising artists on the global stage.
K-pop group Stray Kids made a significant leap in 2025, earning the #2 spot on the IFPI chart. This marks a historic achievement for the group, highlighting the growing global influence of K-pop outside South Korea. Stray Kids’ dynamic releases, international streaming numbers, and worldwide fan engagement contributed to their record-breaking year.
Other Highlights from the Top 20
- Drake and The Weeknd continue to dominate, taking #3 and #4 respectively.
- Bad Bunny holds strong at #5, maintaining his position as one of Latin music’s most influential global artists.
- Legendary and re-emerging artists like Lady Gaga (#10), Ed Sheeran (#18), SZA (#19), and Justin Bieber (#20) return to the chart, showing the staying power of established acts.
- New entrants include Mrs. Green Apple (#13), a sign of rising international talent making a mark globally.
Top 20 IFPI Global Recording Artists 2025
- Taylor Swift
- Stray Kids
- Drake
- The Weeknd
- Bad Bunny
- Kendrick Lamar
- Morgan Wallen
- Sabrina Carpenter
- Billie Eilish
- Lady Gaga
- Ariana Grande
- Tyler, The Creator
- Mrs. Green Apple
- SEVENTEEN
- Eminem
- Linkin Park
- Zach Bryan
- Ed Sheeran
- SZA
- Justin Bieber
The IFPI Global Recording Artist Chart measures total global consumption, including streaming, downloads, and physical album sales. It reflects not just commercial success but also the artists’ global cultural influence.
Taylor Swift’s continued reign and Stray Kids’ meteoric rise demonstrate the blending of Western and K-pop markets, while the mix of veterans and new entrants in the top 20 highlights the diversity of global music consumption today.