Celebrating 10 Years of YouTube’s Billion Views Club

On July 15, 2012, music video history was forever changed as Psy took the world by storm, with viewers around the globe flocking to YouTube to experience and share the viral sensation. Less than six months later on December 21, 2012, the game-changing video would go on to earn the honor of the first music video ever to hit one billion views on the platform, establishing YouTube’s Billion Views Club (BVC). Today marks the 10th anniversary of Psy’s “Gangnam Style” music video release and YouTube is honouring the trailblazer alongside many of the record breaking videos. 

Psy said, "Being the first artist to reach 1 billion views on YouTube was an extraordinary feeling 10 years ago and it still is today. To have played a role in paving the way for music of all kinds to transcend borders is a true honor."

Achieving the billion views milestone on YouTube remains nothing short of extraordinary and is being honored today in a Billion Views Club custom YouTube logo created especially for the anniversary. As YouTube’s BVC turns 10, here’s a look back on these and many other unforgettable music videos that have made their place in history as part of the club; including a genre- and generation-spanning collection of some of the most memorable music videos ever made. 

The elusive list features the likes of Luis Fonsi’s record-breaking sensation “Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee,” BLACKPINK’s “How You Like That,” Drake’s”Hotline Bling,” a-ha’s “Take On Me,” Shakira’s “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa),” Wiz Khalifa’s “See You Again ft. Charlie Puth,” Katy Perry’s “Roar,” Cardi B’s “Bodak Yellow,” Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters,” Mark Ronson’s “Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars,” Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” and the club’s most recent entry with BVC first-timer Coolio for his ‘90s hit “Gangsta’s Paradise” and even some popular hits from Indian artists. 

India’s Bhushan Kumar - Chairman & Managing Director, T-Series, said: “This is indeed a proud moment that not one, but nine of our tracks have received more than 1 billion views on YouTube, helping us take Bollywood to the world in a way no other platform could! Not only have our artists received a global stage for their talent but also we have built an engaged, loyal fan base including the Indian diaspora and international audiences. This milestone truly exemplifies the impact that YouTube has had in transforming and expanding the music landscape. With YouTube as our partner, we’re confident that our artists will continue to break new records, even as we continue to innovate new ways to engage with the next generation of music fans.”

Renuka Panwar, said: "52 Gaj ka Daman is more than simply a song; it serves as a powerful example of what one can accomplish despite numerous hindrances. It catapulted me and Haryanvi regional music to the world stage, changing the course of my life in a way that I had always dreamed of. I will always be eternally grateful to all the fans who come to YouTube to discover new music. I truly believe that YouTube has helped true talent breakthrough across genres, from music to gaming, dance, comedy and many others. It doesn’t matter whether you come from a small town or a big city, as long as you are true to your passion & goals, you will find a way to overcome any stigmas and challenges. With my success, I truly hope that many more young girls across India are motivated to achieve whatever they aspire to.”