The music industry witnessed an unprecedented surge in streaming numbers during the year 2024. According to Luminate’s Year-End Report, the global music streaming reached a staggering 4.8 trillion streams, marking a 14% increase from the previous record set in 2023. This remarkable growth was driven by contemporary artists and genres that resonated with listeners worldwide. In the United States alone, on-demand audio streams grew by 6.4%, totaling 1.4 trillion plays. The vast majority of these streams came from songs released within the last decade, highlighting the dominance of modern music.

Pop music emerged as a leading force in the U.S., surpassing Latin music as the fastest-growing genre. Initially, Latin music had been the frontrunner in the first half of 2024, experiencing a 15.1% increase from summer 2023. However, by year-end, pop surged ahead, led by female solo artists who contributed significantly to its popularity. These artists, including Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande, Olivia Rodrigo, and Chappell Roan, collectively accounted for a substantial portion of the top 100 pop artists' streams. Their influence extended globally, with several of their tracks making it into the top 10 most-streamed songs of the year.

Despite the rise of pop, Latin music continued to thrive, particularly regional Mexican subgenres. Regional Mexican music, encompassing styles like mariachi, banda, and corridos, became a global sensation, attracting new audiences and topping charts. It recorded 28.57 billion streams in 2024, outpacing Latin pop's 24.09 billion streams. While pop ruled in terms of growth, R&B and hip-hop remained the most streamed genres in the U.S., accounting for over one in every four streams. This diversity in musical tastes reflects the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the global music scene, where innovation and creativity continue to inspire and engage listeners across different cultures and regions.

This impressive growth in music streaming underscores the power of digital platforms in connecting artists with fans. The increasing popularity of contemporary music, especially among younger audiences, highlights the importance of staying relevant and innovative. Moreover, the success of female artists in driving pop music consumption demonstrates the significant role women play in shaping the industry. As we look forward, the continued expansion of regional genres like Mexican music promises to bring even more diversity and richness to the global music landscape, fostering greater cultural exchange and understanding.