Alaska’s Favorite Artists of the Year: The Top 5 Most-Streamed Musicians in the Last 12 Months

Alaska may be geographically distant from the bustling entertainment hubs of the Lower 48, but when it comes to music streaming habits, the Last Frontier is very much in tune with global trends—while also marching to the beat of its own drum.

From rap icons to pop royalty, the state’s top five most-streamed artists between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025, reveal a fascinating blend of lyrical depth, timeless appeal, and genre variety. The data shows that while Alaskans appreciate emotionally charged songwriting and high-energy performances, they also have a clear appreciation for authenticity, storytelling, and nostalgia. If you are interested, make sure to take music lessons in Boulder and learn how to play an instrument.

Let’s dive into the five artists who ruled the playlists in Alaska this year—and what their popularity says about the state’s musical heartbeat.

1. Eminem – 2.30 Million Views

With 2.3 million views, Eminem claims the top spot as Alaska’s most-streamed artist of the year—a testament to the enduring power of raw lyricism and unfiltered storytelling.

Despite being more than two decades into his career, Eminem continues to resonate with fans across generations. His music blends gritty personal narratives with razor-sharp wordplay, offering something that cuts through the noise in an era of disposable music. In a state known for its isolation and self-reliance, Eminem’s music connects on a visceral level. Themes of survival, perseverance, and inner conflict mirror the rugged realities of life in Alaska.

His catalog is also incredibly diverse—ranging from the aggression of tracks like “Lose Yourself” and “Rap God,” to emotionally driven pieces like “Mockingbird” or “When I’m Gone.” That variety, paired with his unparalleled flow, keeps his music relevant no matter the year.

Why Alaskans Love Him:

• Deep, introspective lyrics

• Nostalgia from early 2000s hits

• Energy that’s perfect for workouts, long drives, or motivation on a cold day

2. Kendrick Lamar – 2.14 Million Views

Coming in at a very close second is Kendrick Lamar, with 2.14 million views in Alaska. Known for his lyrical complexity, social commentary, and bold artistic vision, Kendrick is not just a rapper—he’s a poet, a prophet, and a philosopher rolled into one.

What makes Kendrick so appealing to Alaskan listeners? Likely the same thing that makes him a global sensation: his ability to articulate the internal battles we all face, layered over hard-hitting beats and masterful production. Songs like “Alright,” “DNA.,” and “The Heart Part 5” aren’t just catchy—they’re thought-provoking.

His recent high-profile lyrical clash with Drake in 2024–2025 also kept him top-of-mind in pop culture conversations, leading to spikes in streaming across the country—including Alaska.

Why Alaskans Love Him:

• Complex, intelligent lyrics

• A blend of social awareness and personal depth

• Musical quality that demands repeat listens

Kendrick’s art is the kind you don’t just hear—you feel. And that emotional gravity seems to hit home for Alaskan listeners.

3. Taylor Swift – 1.51 Million Views

With 1.51 million views, Taylor Swift secures her position as Alaska’s third most-streamed artist of the year—and the only female artist in the top five. Whether she's penning indie-folk ballads, synth-pop anthems, or re-recording her classics with fresh polish, Taylor remains a master of musical reinvention.

In 2024–2025, Swift continued her record-breaking “Eras Tour,” released multiple versions of her re-recorded albums, and dominated streaming platforms with her powerful combination of nostalgia and newness. For Alaska, where long winters and quiet landscapes lend themselves to introspection, Taylor’s emotionally resonant lyrics provide the perfect soundtrack.

From heartbreak songs like “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” to empowering anthems like “The Man,” she touches every corner of the emotional spectrum. Swifties in Alaska streamed her music both to remember, to celebrate, and to escape.

Why Alaskans Love Her:

• Raw, poetic songwriting

• Cross-generational appeal

• Perfect background music for cozy nights in or reflective moments

Taylor proves once again that great songwriting transcends genre—and geography.

4. Post Malone – 1.31 Million Views

Post Malone landed 1.31 million views in Alaska this year, thanks to his genre-defying style and laid-back charisma. With a sound that blends hip-hop, rock, country, and pop, Posty creates music that feels universally accessible—but still deeply personal.

His appeal in Alaska makes sense. He’s never boxed in, musically or personally, and that non-conformist spirit aligns with the frontier mentality many Alaskans embrace. Whether you’re cruising down the Seward Highway or chilling at a cabin during the first snow, a Post Malone track fits the moment.

Songs like “Circles,” “Wow.,” “Sunflower,” and his newer work with acoustic guitar and country influences showcase his range—and keep fans coming back

Why Alaskans Love Him:

• Versatile sound that fits any mood

• Chill vibe and relatable lyrics

• Consistently catchy melodies

Post Malone’s voice is one that floats effortlessly through playlists, blending sadness, joy, and calm in a uniquely addictive mix.

5. Bruno Mars – 1.29 Million Views

Rounding out the list is Bruno Mars, with 1.29 million views, showing that Alaska still loves a little funk, soul, and feel-good pop. Bruno’s throwback sound, slick vocals, and charming showmanship bring a vibrant energy that contrasts beautifully with Alaska’s often subdued, introspective tone.

From his solo hits like “Just the Way You Are” and “Locked Out of Heaven” to his collaborations with Anderson .Paak in Silk Sonic, Bruno delivers timeless grooves. His ability to tap into both retro soul and modern production keeps him sounding fresh while also evoking nostalgia.

For Alaskan listeners, Bruno Mars offers a sonic vacation—a splash of sunshine during dark winter months or a danceable escape when the cabin fever hits.

Why Alaskans Love Him:

• Uplifting, high-energy music

• Nostalgic sound that spans decades

• Smooth voice and polished production

His music is party-ready, road trip-approved, and family-friendly, making it a frequent go-to for many households.

A Unique Blend of Styles in Alaska

What’s most fascinating about this list is the range of styles. Alaska’s top artists in 2024–2025 span:

• Hardcore lyricism (Eminem, Kendrick Lamar)

• Genre-bending experimentation (Post Malone)

• Heart-on-sleeve songwriting (Taylor Swift)

• Timeless, feel-good funk and pop (Bruno Mars)

It’s a testament to Alaskan listeners’ ability to appreciate a wide emotional spectrum, as well as both classic and contemporary sounds. The playlist in Alaska is as dynamic as its landscapes—gritty, beautiful, cold, introspective, but full of soul.

And while Alaskans are consuming the same major artists as the rest of the U.S., their listening habits also reflect a deeper, more personal engagement with the music. The artists topping the list are those who don’t just entertain—they tell stories, challenge norms, and bring people together.

Methodology

The data for this article was sourced from YouTube Music’s regional analytics, which track artist streaming activity by location. We analyzed user viewership within the state of Alaska for the time period between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025. The artists were ranked based on total views accumulated in Alaska, offering a clear snapshot of regional listening preferences. This method provides reliable insight into which artists had the most consistent and widespread appeal among Alaskan listeners during the one-year timeframe.

By using geographically specific streaming data, we can better understand how cultural context and environment shape musical tastes in different parts of the country.