Nebraska’s Most-Streamed Artists of 2024–2025: The Soundtrack of the Cornhusker State

From the open plains to Omaha’s city streets, music in Nebraska has always had a way of telling stories that resonate deeply with its people. Whether it’s gritty lyricism, heartfelt ballads, or new waves of international influence, Nebraskans stream music that connects emotionally and honestly.

According to YouTube Music streaming data between April 7, 2024 and April 7, 2025, Nebraska’s top five most-streamed artists reveal a fascinating portrait of what resonates across the Cornhusker State. These aren’t just chart-toppers—they’re artists whose music echoes the values, moods, and lived experiences of everyday Nebraskans. If you are interested in learning how to play music, check out music lessons in Boulder.

Let’s dive into the top artists Nebraskans couldn’t stop listening to this year—and why their music struck such a lasting chord.

1. Eminem – 8.25 Million Views

With 8.25 million views, Eminem takes the top spot as Nebraska’s most-streamed artist of the year. Two decades into his career, the Detroit-born rap icon continues to connect with fans thanks to his relentless lyrical skill, raw emotional delivery, and gritty backstory.

For many Nebraskans, Eminem’s music is a source of motivation and catharsis. Whether it's “Lose Yourself” blaring through headphones during a workout or “Mockingbird” playing in a quiet moment of reflection, his songs offer a connection that feels personal and empowering.

Buzz around Eminem’s upcoming album The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce) also reignited interest in his entire catalog, leading to spikes in streaming across the state—from Lincoln to Grand Island to rural areas where his underdog spirit still inspires.

Why Nebraska Loves Eminem:

• Deep emotional honesty and resilience

• A Midwest icon with real-world relatability

• Lyrics that inspire action, reflection, and survival

In Nebraska, Eminem isn’t just an artist—he’s an enduring voice for working-class grit and emotional strength.

2. Taylor Swift – 8.21 Million Views

Coming in just behind with 8.21 million views, Taylor Swift proves her universal appeal in Nebraska. From teen Swifties in Omaha to lifelong fans revisiting her early country hits, Swift’s music continues to be a go-to for life’s big and small moments.

2024 saw her dominating headlines with the continuation of her Eras Tour and the release of 1989 (Taylor’s Version). Her impact in Nebraska was immediate: Spotify playlists, TikToks, and road trip sing-alongs were filled with everything from “All Too Well” to “Cruel Summer.”

What makes Swift such a staple in Nebraska is her lyrical sincerity. Her songs are about love, change, heartbreak, and healing—emotions that people from all walks of life can relate to. Whether you’re driving through cornfields or studying at UNL, Swift’s music feels like a trusted companion.

Why Nebraska Loves Taylor Swift:

• Lyrics that mirror life’s joys and struggles

• Genre-spanning appeal, from country to pop to indie

• Emotional depth with poetic storytelling

Taylor Swift continues to be Nebraska’s favorite voice for growing up, letting go, and moving on.

3. Morgan Wallen – 7.96 Million Views

With 7.96 million views, Morgan Wallen leads the country music charge in Nebraska. His Southern drawl and emotional storytelling resonate deeply with a state that shares rural roots, strong values, and a love for open-road anthems.

Wallen’s 2023 album One Thing at a Time carried well into 2024, with songs like “Last Night,” “You Proof,” and “Sand in My Boots” becoming staples on playlists throughout the year. Whether it’s backyard barbecues, tractor rides, or long drives across the state, Wallen’s music fit the moment.

His appeal goes beyond genre—Wallen is a narrator of real life. His lyrics talk about mistakes, longing, small-town loyalty, and personal redemption—all themes that deeply resonate in Nebraska’s heartland.

Why Nebraska Loves Morgan Wallen:

• Authentic lyrics about relationships and rural life

• A modern country sound with crossover appeal

• Music that mirrors Nebraska’s lifestyle and values

In Nebraska, Morgan Wallen sounds like home—comforting, honest, and unmistakably familiar.

4. Kendrick Lamar – 7.61 Million Views

At number four with 7.61 million views, Kendrick Lamar brings depth, commentary, and poetic brilliance to Nebraska’s streaming charts. Known for addressing everything from identity to inequality to personal struggle, Kendrick’s music has become essential listening for fans seeking meaning and message.

In 2024, Kendrick dominated the conversation with “Not Like Us,” a fiery diss track that revived interest in his previous albums. His discography—from good kid, m.A.A.d city to DAMN. to Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers—continued to rack up streams across Nebraska’s college campuses, cities, and thoughtful communities.

Kendrick appeals to Nebraskans who crave music with purpose. His lyrics go beyond entertainment—they spark discussion, reflection, and social awareness.

Why Nebraska Loves Kendrick Lamar:

• Intelligent lyrics with emotional and political weight

• A trusted voice for social commentary and self-discovery

• Music that challenges listeners and invites introspection

Kendrick’s artistry gives Nebraska something rare: a soundtrack for both protest and peace of mind.

5. Peso Pluma – 6.24 Million Views

With 6.24 million views, Peso Pluma rounds out Nebraska’s top five—and his presence represents a growing interest in Latin music, cultural fusion, and global storytelling.

The Mexican corridos tumbados star had a massive year, fueled by collaborations, high-energy releases, and a strong following among Nebraska’s Latino population, particularly in places like South Omaha and Lexington. Songs like “Ella Baila Sola,” “PRC,” and “Rubicon” helped elevate his profile and bring regional Mexican music to a broader audience.

Peso Pluma’s rise in Nebraska shows a shift toward bilingual, cross-cultural listening habits. His lyrics, often dealing with love, struggle, and street life, connect deeply with listeners who appreciate gritty realism and infectious rhythm.

Why Nebraska Loves Peso Pluma:

• Unique blend of tradition and modern Latin trap

• Represents cultural pride and musical evolution

• High-energy music with real-life themes

Peso Pluma brings a bold, fresh sound to Nebraska’s playlists—and signals a more globalized future for the state’s music tastes.

What Nebraska’s Top Artists Reveal About the State’s Music Culture

The top-streamed artists in Nebraska showcase a balance between deep-rooted values and evolving tastes. Whether it's country, rap, pop, or regional Mexican, Nebraskans stream music that speaks to emotion, identity, and real life.

1. Lyrical Honesty Matters 🧠

From Eminem’s confessions to Wallen’s nostalgia and Swift’s reflections, Nebraska listeners prioritize music that feels real, not fabricated.

2. Genre Is Fluid—Emotion Is Constant 🎶

While country and hip-hop dominate the list, it’s not about labels—it’s about how music makes people feel. From Peso Pluma’s passion to Kendrick’s insight, Nebraskans stream artists that stir something inside.

3. Cultural Diversity Is Rising 🌎

With Peso Pluma charting in the top five, it’s clear that Nebraska’s growing cultural landscape is reshaping its soundscape. Spanish-language music is becoming part of the mainstream.

4. Midwest Values Still Reign 🏡

No matter the genre, themes like hard work, resilience, heartbreak, and personal growth remain central to Nebraska’s most-streamed music.

Methodology

This article is based on YouTube Music’s regional analytics, which track the total number of video streams by location. The rankings reflect the top five most-streamed artists in Nebraska between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025, based on user view counts within the state.

This data offers a localized view of music engagement, independent of national charts or commercial radio rotations—making it a true reflection of what Nebraskans actually listen to.

Final Thoughts: Nebraska’s Playlist of Heart, Hustle, and Harmony

From Eminem’s lyrical fire to Swift’s heartfelt ballads, from Wallen’s rural narratives to Kendrick’s introspective anthems and Peso Pluma’s rising rhythms, Nebraska’s most-streamed artists of the year capture the emotional complexity and cultural evolution of the state itself.

In 2024–2025, Nebraskans turned to music for healing, celebration, identity, and self-expression. These five artists helped shape the sound of the year—not just through volume, but through meaning.

As 2025 unfolds, expect Nebraska to keep listening with heart, depth, and an openness to new sounds—without forgetting the roots that keep the playlist grounded.