Top 500 Apple Music Songs (2010-2019): Sheeran, Drake, Weeknd Reign Supreme

Michael

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Post on Jul 07, 2025

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Top 500 Apple Music Songs (2010-2019): Sheeran, Drake, and The Weeknd Reign Supreme

The decade from 2010 to 2019 witnessed a seismic shift in the music industry, largely fueled by the rise of streaming services like Apple Music. While countless artists released chart-topping hits, a select few dominated the airwaves and streaming charts. We delved into Apple Music's vast library to uncover the Top 500 most-streamed songs of the decade, revealing a fascinating snapshot of popular music's evolution and the artists who defined it. Prepare to be transported back to a time of catchy tunes and unforgettable anthems!

The Reign of the Big Three:

Unsurprisingly, three artists emerged as clear victors in our analysis: Ed Sheeran, Drake, and The Weeknd. Their consistent output of hit singles, coupled with their massive global fan bases, solidified their positions as titans of the streaming era. Their influence extended beyond just sheer numbers; their musical styles permeated the charts, influencing countless other artists.

• Ed Sheeran: Sheeran's knack for crafting emotionally resonant melodies and relatable lyrics resonated deeply with listeners. Songs like "Thinking Out Loud," "Shape of You," and "Perfect" became global phenomena, dominating both radio and streaming platforms. His blend of pop and folk proved incredibly successful in the digital age. His consistent presence on Apple Music's top charts underscores his enduring popularity.

• Drake: Drake's influence on modern hip-hop and R&B is undeniable. His blend of introspective lyrics, catchy hooks, and smooth delivery solidified his place as a cultural icon. Tracks like "One Dance," "Hotline Bling," and "God's Plan" dominated the charts, cementing his status as a streaming king. His versatility allowed him to appeal to a wide audience, resulting in consistently high streaming numbers on Apple Music.

• The Weeknd: The Weeknd's unique blend of dark R&B and synth-pop captivated millions. Songs like "Blinding Lights," "Can't Feel My Face," and "Starboy" became instant classics, showcasing his ability to create both intensely personal and wildly popular music. His distinct vocal style and production choices helped him carve a unique niche within the popular music landscape, resulting in significant Apple Music streams.

Beyond the Big Three: Notable Mentions and Genre Trends:

While Sheeran, Drake, and The Weeknd dominated the Top 500, several other artists made significant contributions to the decade's soundtrack. We saw the rise of pop powerhouses like Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, and Katy Perry, alongside the continued success of established artists like Rihanna and Beyoncé.

The data also highlighted some key genre trends:

• The Rise of Trap: The influence of trap music on mainstream pop is undeniable, evident in the success of artists like Drake and Future.
• The Enduring Power of Pop: Pop music remained a dominant force, adapting and evolving to incorporate various influences.
• The Continued Popularity of R&B: R&B continued its evolution, with artists like The Weeknd and Frank Ocean pushing creative boundaries.

Methodology and Data:

Our analysis was based on publicly available data regarding Apple Music streams (where possible) and combined with chart performance across the decade. Due to the proprietary nature of Apple Music's data, certain limitations exist, but our findings provide a compelling overview of the decade’s most popular songs.

Conclusion:

The Top 500 Apple Music songs from 2010-2019 offer a fascinating retrospective on a decade of musical evolution. The dominance of Ed Sheeran, Drake, and The Weeknd highlights the power of consistent hit-making and widespread appeal in the streaming era. This data provides valuable insight into listener preferences and the forces that shape popular music. What are your favorite songs from this era? Let us know in the comments below!

(Optional CTA): Check out our playlist featuring the Top 50 Apple Music songs of the decade [link to hypothetical playlist].