The Weeknd’s ‘Blinding Lights’ Becomes First Song Ever to Reach 5 Billion Spotify Streams, Cementing Its Legacy

The Weeknd’s ‘Blinding Lights’ Shatters Spotify Milestone, First to Eclipse 5 Billion Streams

The global music landscape has a new reigning champion in terms of streaming dominance, as The Weeknd’s mega-hit “Blinding Lights” has officially become the first song in Spotify’s history to surpass an astounding five billion streams. This monumental achievement, confirmed by Spotify on August 31st, solidifies the track’s status as a modern classic and underscores The Weeknd’s unparalleled global appeal.

The announcement was made across Spotify’s social media channels, with the artist, born Abel Tesfaye, acknowledging the milestone by reposting the news on his Instagram Story. This latest accomplishment adds another feather to the cap of a song that has consistently broken records since its release.

A Legacy of Chart Dominance and Unprecedented Longevity

Released in November 2019 as the second single from his critically acclaimed fourth studio album, After Hours, “Blinding Lights” was an immediate global phenomenon. Co-produced by pop music titans Max Martin and Oscar Holter, alongside The Weeknd himself, Belly, and DaHeala, the track quickly captured the zeitgeist with its infectious 1980s-inspired synth-pop sound.

Its impact on the charts was nothing short of historic. “Blinding Lights” spent four non-consecutive weeks at the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. More remarkably, it set a new record by remaining in the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 10 for a full year, a feat unprecedented for any song. In 2021, it further cemented its legendary status by surpassing Chubby Checker’s “The Twist” to be named Billboard’s Greatest Hot 100 Song of All Time. Just days before its 5 billion stream announcement, Billboard also ranked “Blinding Lights” as the number one track on its Top Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs of the 21st Century list.

The Journey to Five Billion Streams

The path to five billion streams has been a continuous ascent for “Blinding Lights.” It previously marked history by becoming the first song to reach four billion streams on Spotify in January 2024. This steady growth highlights the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to resonate with listeners across diverse demographics and listening habits, far beyond its initial release period.

The song’s commercial success is further evidenced by its global sales and certifications, including RIAA Diamond certification in the United States. It was also named the best-selling global single of 2020 by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI).

The Weeknd’s Unmatched Streaming Empire

This milestone is not an isolated incident for The Weeknd. He currently holds the record for the most songs in Spotify’s “Billions Club,” with an impressive 28 entries. This extensive catalog of billion-streamed tracks, including hits like “The Hills,” “Starboy” (featuring Daft Punk), and “Can’t Feel My Face,” showcases his consistent ability to produce music that captivates a worldwide audience. His participation in Spotify’s inaugural “Billions Club: Live” concert in December further illustrates his deep connection with the streaming platform and its most dedicated listeners.

The success of “Blinding Lights” is a testament to its sophisticated songwriting, its nostalgic yet contemporary sound, and its seamless integration into popular culture, from radio play and curated playlists to viral trends on platforms like TikTok. It exemplifies how modern music hits can function across multiple contexts, maintaining relevance and engagement for years after their initial release.

As The Weeknd continues his “After Hours Til Dawn Tour,” the 5 billion stream mark for “Blinding Lights” serves as a powerful reminder of his enduring influence and his remarkable journey in the music industry. This achievement not only cements “Blinding Lights” as one of the defining pop songs of the 2020s but also sets a new benchmark for streaming success in the digital age, demonstrating that sustained connection and exceptional artistry can lead to truly historic outcomes.