The Most Popular Musicians In The World

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, we check out research into global Google searches to discover which are the most popular musicians in the world.

The music industry is a constantly evolving landscape, with new artists emerging and old favorites enduring. But who truly reigns supreme in the hearts and minds of global audiences? Let’s embark on a data-driven journey to uncover the most popular musicians worldwide.

By analyzing global Google search trends, and and by state for Billboard’s top 250, Westgate Las Vegas, Elvis Historical Experience uncovered the artists who have captured the world’s attention and explore the factors driving their popularity, to establish which musicians are the most popular in 2024.

The Most Popular Musicians In The World

The world’s most popular musicians, according to Google searches
Artist	Global monthly Google searches	Rank
Taylor Swift	38,587,357	1
BTS	30,996,790	2
BLACKPINK	29,739,098	3
Shakira	17,430,544	4
Bad Bunny	16,022,632	5
Michael Jackson	14,417,404	6
Eminem	13,888,264	7
Billie Eilish	12,084,900	8
Justin Bieber	11,810,820	9
Celine Dion	11,145,098	10

Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s reign as the undisputed queen of pop culture is undeniable, and the numbers don’t lie. With a staggering 38.6 million monthly Google searches worldwide, the “Anti-Hero” singer-songwriter has cemented her status as a global phenomenon. Her latest album, The Tortured Poets Department, has only intensified the public’s fascination, propelling her to the top of the most searched artists list in both the US and UK.

Swift’s dominance extends beyond overall popularity. She’s the most Googled artist in every single state across America, a testament to her broad appeal and dedicated fanbase. The “Swiftie” phenomenon, fueled by her confessional lyrics, chart-topping hits, and a carefully curated public image, has created a cultural obsession unlike any other.

As we delve deeper into the world of music search trends, it will be fascinating to see which other artists can compete with Taylor Swift’s unparalleled global dominance.

BTS

Following closely behind Taylor Swift is the K-Pop sensation BTS, generating a massive 30.9 million global searches each month. With nearly two million of those searches originating from the US alone, their influence extends far beyond their Korean roots. Hits like “Dynamite” and “Butter” propelled them to international stardom, captivating audiences with their infectious energy, synchronized choreography, and socially conscious lyrics.

BTS, often referred to as the “Bangtan Boys,” have cultivated a dedicated and passionate fanbase known as ARMY. This devoted following has been instrumental in their rapid ascent to global superstardom. By breaking language and cultural barriers, BTS has redefined the possibilities of K-Pop, proving that music truly is a universal language.

BLACKPINK

Following closely behind BTS is the K-pop quartet BLACKPINK, amassing an impressive 29.7 million monthly global searches. Their powerful performances, catchy tunes, and undeniable charisma have captured the hearts of millions worldwide. With hits like “How You Like That” and “Pink Venom” dominating charts and breaking records, BLACKPINK has solidified their status as global icons.

The group’s influence extends beyond music, with each member establishing successful solo careers. This individual success, combined with their strong group dynamic, has contributed significantly to BLACKPINK’s immense popularity. Their ability to seamlessly blend K-pop elements with Western influences has created a unique sound that resonates with audiences across the globe.

As we continue our exploration of the most searched musicians, it’s evident that K-pop has made an undeniable impact on the global music scene.

Shakira

Shakira, the Colombian songstress and global superstar, secures the fourth spot on our list with a formidable 17.4 million monthly global searches. Her infectious blend of Latin rhythms and pop melodies has captivated audiences worldwide for decades. With over two million searches originating from the US, Shakira is also a beloved figure in the American music scene.

Hits like “Hips Don’t Lie” and “Whenever, Wherever” have become anthems, and her energetic live performances have cemented her status as a live music powerhouse. Shakira’s ability to seamlessly blend cultural influences and create music that transcends language barriers has made her a true global icon.

Bad Bunny

Claiming the fifth spot on our list is the Puerto Rican sensation, Bad Bunny, with a staggering 16 million monthly global searches. The “King of Latin Trap” has undeniably captured the world’s attention, with a dedicated following that generates an impressive 4.1 million searches within the US alone.

Bad Bunny’s influence extends far beyond his musical talent. His boundary-pushing style, which seamlessly blends reggaeton, trap, and pop, has redefined Latin music and attracted a global fanbase. From sold-out stadium tours to groundbreaking fashion collaborations, he has become a cultural icon.

Completing the top ten list are Michael Jackson, Eminem, Billie Eilish, Justin Bieber and Celine Dion respectively.

Which artists are still loved in 2024?

The most popular musicians from the 20th century, according to Google searches
Artist	Global monthly Google searches	Rank	Year they rose to fame
Michael Jackson	14,417,404	1	1979 (as a solo artist)
Celine Dion	11,145,098	2	1988
Elvis Presley	7,536,474	3	1955
Bob Marley	7,373,267	4	1975
Tina Turner	6,822,982	5	1978 (as a solo artist)

Many of the artists in the top thirty list rose to fame in the 20^th Century, however, the oldest performer that still retains mass popularity today is Elvis Presley, with 7.53 million monthly searches made around the world for the King of Rock n Roll. Elvis Presley, who became a household name in the mid-1950’s is the earliest active performer in the global top thirty, ranking twenty third overall. In fact, Elvis Presley is the ninth most Googled musician in the UK overall, and the twenty second most Googled artist in America.

Many of Elvis Presley’s songs are considered timeless classics now, which likely contributes to his high ranking in this study. However, the popularity of Elvis Presley can also be largely attributed to the cultural impact that he had in the 1950’s through to the 1970’s. He changed the musical landscape and was the first of his kind to create the celebrity ‘fandom culture’ that we see so often today.

Along with a revival of Elvis portrayals in Hollywood, such as Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis in 2022, and Sofia Coppola’s recent hit, Priscilla, it’s no wonder that Elvis Presley popularity continues to grow through new generations with this study certainly highlighting how Elvis continues to earn his title as The King.

-Gordon Prouty, Vice President of Public Relations and Community Affairs at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino

Besides Elvis Presley, other artists that rose to fame in the 20^th Century that continue to remain popular in 2024 are Michael Jackson, who began his solo career in the late 1970s, Celine Dion, Bob Marley, Tina Turner, Madonna and Queen.