Top 10 Most Rewatched Music Videos

Most couples are lucky to get a decent DJ for their wedding reception, let alone a hugely successful group like Maroon 5. Surprising unsuspecting newlyweds, Adam Levine and his bandmates arrived to spice up the post-ceremony festivities in this video. Whether or not some of the events were staged, the entertaining concept resonated with viewers everywhere. The band’s bright and funky music can cut through any cynicism. And their hold on pop culture and music was only elevated by this imaginative visual accompaniment. Though the cameo-driven “Girls Like You” video was a classic, the one for “Sugar” was even more impactful. Amassing billions of views, it prompted many fans to hit the replay button for another dose of happiness.

With a boost from the BTS army, “Dynamite” became one of the most viewed YouTube videos in a twenty-four hour period. The visuals were reminiscent of a summer day, with the group appearing in a glorious, pastel setting full of donuts and sunshine. As the various members enjoyed their day out, the catchy K-pop song and video provided an entertaining break from the pandemic. Watching them shuffle their troubles away in a delightful routine made us want to do the same. We didn’t think BTS could outdo the video for “Boy with Luv,” but the escapist visuals and attitude they brought to “Dynamite” fully captured peoples’ hearts.

Anybody who was around in 2014 remembers “Shake It Off,” which had a video as bold as anything Taylor Swift ever put out. Marking a turning point for her as a songwriter, this piece captured the artist at her most entertaining. From ballet class to a hip-hop dance crew, each sequence revealed a different side of her fun personality. Swift’s every move and pose represented an artist in complete control of her newest era, which she continued to embrace in the unforgettable “Blank Space” video. Still one of her most rewatchable visual works, “Shake It Off” has all the gravitas of a great pop statement.

#7: “Sorry” (2015) Justin Bieber

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Instead of taking center stage in a performance video, Justin Bieber ceded his time to a group of professional dancers from New Zealand. The ReQuest and Royal Family Dance Crews made themselves known in "Sorry" for their electric choreography. Each performer nailed dynamic dance styles, with their colorful outfits adding to the lively energy. With a pop song and Bieber’s vocals as a foundation, multiple genres of music and art flowed through the video. There was something new to discover with every viewing. If for no other reason, “Sorry” got millions of folks to get up and dance.

#6: “Hello” (2015) Adele

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Adele is never one to shy away from an emotional video, and she went all in for “Hello.” The singer delved into an emotional tale of nostalgia with all the nuance of a feature film. As she explored a country house, a wave of memories flooded over her. The song’s resonant tone meshed well with the cinematic short, blending narrative and music into a fascinating watch. Making emotional phone calls to her past, the home and nearby woods became a metaphor for a prior relationship. Simple in its scope, the somber storytelling was elevated by Adele’s incredible lyrics and performance, and drew viewers in. A reflective video that brought audiences together, “Hello” demanded to be viewed and reviewed.

A stellar collaboration between producer Mark Ronson and vocalist extraordinaire Bruno Mars, “Uptown Funk” became the song of 2014. Super-charged and free-wheeling, the accompanying video felt like stepping into an expensive and exclusive block party. The visuals stole the hearts of millions looking to have a good time. You might’ve watched it for the dances, the outfits, or because you just wanted to hear a great soulful pop track. Sometimes all you need in a video is a few camera tricks, a solid performance from the artist, and a couple well-timed dance moves. Ronson and Mars gave us all that and more.

#4: “Gangnam Style” (2012) Psy

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Some might say there was life before and after “Gangnam Style.” Psy’s K-pop masterpiece was one of the biggest viral sensations of its kind upon its release. A shock to the senses, this high intensity video followed the popstar everywhere, from horse stables to a sauna. Initially, you had to replay it just to make sure what you saw was real. Plus, it was just too fun not to watch on a loop, and everyone was trying to replicate that signature dance. All the while, Psy and a cast of characters looked like they were having the time of their life. Truly a force of nature, “Gangnam Style” introduced many to an endlessly rewatchable world of K-pop videos.

#3: “See You Again” (2015) Wiz Khalifa feat. Charlie Puth

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Created for the “Furious 7” soundtrack to salute the franchise’s late star Paul Walker, this video beautifully honored the actor and his legacy. Powered by Charlie Puth and Wiz Khalifa’s wise words and a touching message, the song’s backstory gave the entire piece an added weight. Images of the “Fast” series flew by, cementing just how important Walker was to his castmates. Meanwhile, the scenery, combined with Khalifa and Puth’s emotional delivery, captured the universal feeling of mourning a friend. Somber without being unbearable, the video was a beautiful and poignant visual eulogy, full of a depth that kept us all coming back for more.

Who would’ve thought Ed Sheeran was a fighter? In “Shape of You,” the singer trained with a significant other for a surprising sumo match. Depicting a love story between two young athletes, the inventive tale felt like its own elaborate film. Next to its inviting sound, the visuals combined inspiring scenes with a heartbreak that shifted the tone. Sheeran’s final bout and the hilariously unexpected finale made the thrilling ride even more entertaining.“Thinking Out Loud” was another game-changer, but the “Shape of You” video’s more eccentric attitude made it a standout. This mega-hit visual work took audiences on an out-of-the-box adventure, and Sheeran found many new fans in the process. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” (2010), Shakira This World Cup Anthem’s Video Was Full of Fun & Captivating Energy “Counting Stars” (2013), OneRepublic The Pop Rock Band Played Under a Preacher’s Gathering in This Lively Visual Work “Roar” (2013), Katy Perry Perry Explored the Jungle & Became One with Nature in an Entertaining Pop Video “Bailando” (2014), Enrique Iglesias feat. Descemer Bueno & Gente de Zona The Artists Took to the Streets of the Dominican Republic for a Huge Dance Party “Mi Gente” (2017), J Balvin & Willy William A Vibrant & Bold Video with Insanely Cool Visuals

#1: “Despacito” (2017) Luis Fonsi feat. Daddy Yankee

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Latin pop and reggaeton artist Luis Fonsi teamed up with rapper Daddy Yankee for the international hit “Despacito.” The accompanying video shattered records with billions of views that made the song even more popular. Capturing the sights and sounds of Puerto Rico, the piece oozed with energy and good vibes. From the streets to the dance club, each part of the setting was absolutely breathtaking. Presumably eager to relive the joy of the video, viewers returned again and again to dance along. The work was a visual window into a beautiful culture, and had all the ingredients to become one of the most rewatched uploads in YouTube’s history.