Rhode Island’s Most-Streamed Artists of 2024–2025: The Voices That Defined the Ocean State
Small in size but rich in culture, Rhode Island continues to prove that big things come in small packages—especially when it comes to music. From the cobblestone streets of Providence to the beach towns of South County, music plays an important role in the everyday lives of Rhode Islanders. Whether it’s booming from car stereos downtown, setting the tone at backyard cookouts, or streaming through earbuds on a walk by the bay, music is the state’s emotional lifeline.
Between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025, Rhode Islanders streamed millions of songs, turning to artists who reflect their diverse backgrounds, emotional depth, and cultural pride. According to YouTube Music streaming data, the most-played artists in the state represent a dynamic mix of Latin global icons, poetic lyricists, genre-bending superstars, and local favorites. If you are interested in music lessons, be sure to check out music lessons in Boulder.
Here are Rhode Island’s top five most-streamed artists of the year—and what their popularity reveals about the Ocean State’s musical identity.
- Bad Bunny – 3.17 Million Views
Claiming the top spot with 3.17 million views, Bad Bunny continues to dominate streaming platforms across the globe—and Rhode Island is no exception. The Puerto Rican superstar’s presence in the state speaks to its vibrant Latinx community and the growing influence of Spanish-language music across all demographics.
Bad Bunny’s 2024–2025 success was powered by chart-toppers like “Monaco,” “WHERE SHE GOES,” and collaborations with artists like Feid, Young Miko, and Arcángel. But his back catalog also continued to thrive. Songs from Un Verano Sin Ti and YHLQMDLG remained on repeat in neighborhoods across Providence, Central Falls, and Pawtucket.
His unique ability to blend reggaeton, Latin trap, pop, and rock gives his music universal appeal. And his lyrics—often unapologetically vulnerable, politically charged, or proudly rebellious—resonate deeply in a state that values authenticity and cultural pride.
Why Rhode Island Loves Bad Bunny:
- Represents and celebrates Puerto Rican and Latinx identity
- Delivers music that’s equally perfect for parties and introspection
- Challenges norms while staying grounded in community
In Rhode Island, Bad Bunny isn’t just popular—he’s a cultural force.
- Taylor Swift – 2.69 Million Views
Coming in at number two with 2.69 million views, Taylor Swift proves once again that she is truly a global phenomenon—with deep roots in New England.
While she may not be from Rhode Island originally, Swift’s historic beachfront home in Watch Hill made her a local fixture, and her ongoing love for the Ocean State is no secret. Her presence in Rhode Island’s streaming charts feels like a hometown victory for many Swifties.
Her massive Eras Tour and continued success with re-recorded albums like 1989 (Taylor’s Version) kept her streaming numbers high. Meanwhile, her emotional catalog—ranging from early country ballads to indie-pop introspections—continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
Swift’s lyrics about love, heartbreak, self-growth, and nostalgia speak to the soul. Whether it’s a rainy day in Newport or a summer evening in Narragansett, Taylor Swift’s songs set the perfect mood.
Why Rhode Island Streams Taylor Swift So Often:
- A familiar name with local ties and a timeless appeal
- Lyrics that span multiple stages of life and emotion
- A discography that evolves while staying deeply personal
In Rhode Island, Taylor Swift isn’t just a pop star—she’s part of the neighborhood.
- Kendrick Lamar – 2.60 Million Views
With 2.60 million views, Kendrick Lamar holds the third spot as Rhode Island’s go-to artist for those seeking meaningful lyrics and cultural commentary.
The Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper from Compton has long been admired for his ability to balance poetic depth with commercial success. In 2024, he captured the spotlight again with “Not Like Us”, an explosive track that reignited his lyrical rivalry with Drake. But beyond the headlines, Rhode Islanders dug deep into his entire discography—from good kid, m.A.A.d city to Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers.
In a state known for its activist spirit, diverse population, and artistic community, Kendrick’s music is more than entertainment—it’s fuel for thought, conversation, and emotional processing. His songs are played in classrooms, cafes, college dorms, and car rides alike.
Why Kendrick Resonates in Rhode Island:
- Tackles topics like race, identity, mental health, and justice
- Blends mainstream production with conscious messages
- Offers listeners a space for reflection and growth
In the Ocean State, Kendrick Lamar’s voice carries far beyond the beat.
- Drake – 2.53 Million Views
Just behind Kendrick is Drake, with 2.53 million views. The Canadian rapper-singer hybrid remains one of the most consistent chart-toppers globally, and Rhode Island is no exception.
Drake’s catalog offers something for everyone—whether it’s the emotional vulnerability of “Marvins Room,” the club-ready bounce of “One Dance,” or the confidence of “First Person Shooter.” In 2024, he continued to dominate the streaming world with new collaborations and subtle shifts in style, making him a playlist staple in nearly every setting.
In Rhode Island, where urban centers meet coastal charm, Drake’s versatility is a major draw. His music plays just as easily at a Providence house party as it does during a solitary sunset walk along the water.
Why Rhode Island Keeps Streaming Drake:
- Offers emotional range—from confidence to contemplation
- Easily blends into any social or solo listening context
- Releases new music frequently, keeping things fresh
Drake is the musical chameleon Rhode Island listeners can always count on.
- Romeo Santos – 2.23 Million Views
Rounding out the top five is Romeo Santos, with 2.23 million views. The former Aventura frontman turned solo sensation remains the undisputed King of Bachata, and in Rhode Island, his influence is particularly strong.
With a significant Dominican and broader Latinx population, especially in Providence and Central Falls, Romeo’s music has long been a staple at family gatherings, romantic nights, and Latin dance parties across the state.
His smooth vocals, romantic storytelling, and fusion of traditional bachata with urban R&B and pop keep him relevant year after year. In 2024–2025, tracks like “Propuesta Indecente,” “Eres Mía,” and his collaborations with Rosalía and Ozuna continued to dominate local playlists.
Why Rhode Island Loves Romeo Santos:
- Romantic, danceable music that’s steeped in Dominican heritage
- Lyrics that speak to both passion and heartbreak
- A cultural icon for the Latinx community
In Rhode Island, Romeo Santos isn’t just on the playlist—he’s part of the cultural fabric.
What Rhode Island’s Most-Streamed Artists Say About Its Music Culture
The artists Rhode Island streamed most in 2024–2025 reveal a state with rich cultural diversity, emotional sensitivity, and a love for both heritage and evolution.
- Latin Music Is Central 🌍
With both Bad Bunny and Romeo Santos in the top five, it’s clear that Latinx culture plays a huge role in shaping the Ocean State’s musical preferences.
- Lyrics and Storytelling Matter 🧠
Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar both reflect an audience that values words that mean something—stories that unfold, challenge, and resonate.
- Versatility Is Key 🎶
From Drake’s genre-hopping hits to Bad Bunny’s cross-cultural fusions, Rhode Islanders gravitate toward artists who can move between moods and settings effortlessly.
- Music Is Deeply Personal 🫶
These top five artists aren’t just performers—they’re companions through love, heartbreak, growth, and identity. They meet listeners where they are and take them somewhere new.
Methodology
This article is based on YouTube Music’s regional streaming data, which tracks total artist video views by location. The rankings reflect the top five most-streamed artists in Rhode Island between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025, based on verified user activity across the state.
This data gives an authentic look at what real Rhode Islanders chose to stream—offering insight into the music that truly moved the state.
Final Thoughts: Rhode Island’s Playlist of Identity, Emotion, and Connection
In a year full of change and challenges, Rhode Islanders turned to artists who reflect their identities, values, and emotions. Whether through the global pride of Bad Bunny, the homegrown nostalgia of Taylor Swift, the lyrical truth of Kendrick Lamar, the versatility of Drake, or the passion of Romeo Santos, these top artists created a soundtrack that was as layered and complex as the state itself.
As we head deeper into 2025, one thing is certain: Rhode Island may be small, but its musical taste is mighty—and meaningful.
WRITTEN BY
Gloria Conroy
Copyright © 2025