Kentucky’s Most-Streamed Songs of 2024–2025: The Heartfelt Hits That Soundtracked the Bluegrass State
Music runs deep in Kentucky’s soil. From bluegrass roots to outlaw country, Southern hip-hop to pop ballads, the people of Kentucky know how to connect with music that speaks to real life. And in 2024–2025, the state’s most-streamed songs on YouTube Music proved just how eclectic—and emotionally rich—those tastes really are.
From breakups and bar fights to healing, heartbreak, and everything in between, Kentucky’s top tracks this year weren’t just background noise. They were emotional companions. Whether heard on country roads outside Bowling Green, in Lexington college dorms, or on night drives through the hills of Appalachia, these were the songs Kentuckians played on repeat. If you want to learn how to play music, take music lessons in Boulder.
Let’s dive into the top 9 most-streamed songs in Kentucky this past year—and why each one struck such a powerful chord across the Commonwealth.
- “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar (4.27 Million Views)
With 4.27 million views, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” was Kentucky’s most-streamed song of the year—and it’s easy to see why.
While the track gained traction nationwide as a jaw-dropping diss aimed at Drake, Kentucky listeners weren’t just here for the drama. Kendrick’s razor-sharp lyricism, unapologetic tone, and booming West Coast beat made “Not Like Us” a cultural event and an adrenaline shot.
In a state that values realness and storytelling, Kendrick’s aggressive but clever delivery resonated with rap fans of all ages. Whether you were hyped by the beat or engaged by the wordplay, this track dominated gyms, headphones, and social media feeds across the Bluegrass State.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Viral and culturally relevant
- Gritty, unfiltered energy with intellectual edge
- Reaffirmed Kendrick as a lyrical titan
- “Beautiful Things” – Benson Boone (3.77 Million Views)
In complete emotional contrast, Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” soared to second place in Kentucky with 3.77 million views, proving that tenderness and gratitude never go out of style.
The song, which reflects on love and the fear of losing it, offered Kentucky listeners a moment of stillness amid the noise. Boone’s delicate piano melody and emotionally rich vocals made it a favorite for quiet evenings, reflective drives, and rainy mornings.
It’s no surprise the song caught fire in a state where family, faith, and emotional authenticity remain core values.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Vulnerable lyrics about love, gratitude, and uncertainty
- Soothing melody ideal for introspective moments
- A breakout hit with universal relatability
- “Lose Control (Live)” – Teddy Swims (3.55 Million Views)
Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control (Live)” was another emotional powerhouse on Kentucky’s playlists, earning 3.55 million views and becoming one of the state’s most streamed tearjerkers.
His live rendition added a rawness and desperation that struck listeners straight in the chest. In a state where honesty and hard living often go hand-in-hand, “Lose Control” felt like a friend confessing something you already knew deep down.
From rural farmhouses to city apartments, this track gave Kentuckians permission to feel—and feel deeply.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Vocals full of soul and sorrow
- Intimate performance that feels live-in-the-room
- An anthem for the heartbroken and healing
- “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Shaboozey (3.50 Million Views)
With 3.50 million views, Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” brought the party to Kentucky with a perfect mix of country charm and hip-hop swagger.
Sampling J-Kwon’s early 2000s hit “Tipsy” and flipping it into a country bar banger, the song quickly became a staple at tailgates, honky-tonks, college parties, and dive bars throughout the state. It’s fun, familiar, and just rowdy enough to feel rebellious—exactly the kind of song that gets everyone singing along.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Country-rap crossover appeal
- Nostalgic yet fresh party energy
- Ideal for group singalongs and weekend get-togethers
- “I Had Some Help (feat. Morgan Wallen)” – Post Malone (2.69 Million Views)
Post Malone and Morgan Wallen’s “I Had Some Help” landed firmly in Kentucky’s top five with 2.69 million views, and it’s no mystery why—it blends two of the state’s favorite styles: country and pop-rap.
The song’s lyrics, which center around a breakup full of finger-pointing and playful denial, were instantly quotable. Its upbeat sound made it a mainstay on country playlists while Posty’s signature melodies ensured crossover success.
In Kentucky, where Morgan Wallen is practically a household name, this collaboration hit just the right mix of catchy and relatable.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Features a local favorite in Morgan Wallen
- Lyrics about messy love and shared blame
- Great for driving, chilling, or singing loud
- “Something in the Orange” – Zach Bryan (2.52 Million Views)
Still going strong a couple years after its release, Zach Bryan’s “Something in the Orange” pulled in 2.52 million streams in Kentucky—and continues to feel like a musical embodiment of the Appalachian soul.
With his gravelly voice and minimalist production, Bryan paints a picture of longing, loss, and the kind of heartbreak that doesn’t resolve—it just lives with you.
Whether you’re watching the sunset on the front porch or working through a breakup, “Something in the Orange” became Kentucky’s favorite way to grieve softly.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Pure, poetic lyrics with deep emotional weight
- Appeals to fans of folk, country, and indie alike
- A slow-burn anthem of quiet suffering
- “Die With A Smile” – Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars (2.34 Million Views)
With 2.34 million views, Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ “Die With A Smile” added a splash of funky joy to Kentucky’s playlists this year.
Its disco-pop energy and optimistic message about living fearlessly and smiling through life’s madness made it a go-to track for workouts, self-love playlists, and party warmups.
In a year dominated by heavy emotions, “Die With A Smile” offered pure fun without sacrificing depth—and Kentuckians appreciated that.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Danceable and uplifting with superstar vocals
- Great for mental health and mood-boosting moments
- A welcome change of pace from heartbreak-heavy tracks
- “Wild Ones” – Jessie Murph & ? (2.32 Million Views)
With 2.32 million views, Jessie Murph’s “Wild Ones” proved that Gen Z in Kentucky has found its voice. While the feature artist isn’t listed, Jessie’s signature blend of country, pop, and rebellious angst made this track a teen anthem throughout the state.
“Wild Ones” is for the misfits—the ones who never fit the mold, who grew up feeling like outsiders in a conservative town. And in Kentucky, where tradition runs deep, songs that validate youthful rebellion and self-discovery hit hard.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Powerful message of identity and individuality
- Blends country twang with alt-pop polish
- A voice for young people finding their place
- “Save Me” – Jelly Roll (2.25 Million Views)
Rounding out the top 9 is Jelly Roll’s “Save Me” with 2.25 million views—a raw and redemptive ballad that feels like it was written for Kentucky itself.
Jelly Roll’s story of addiction, forgiveness, and seeking light in the darkest corners of life connects deeply with the working-class, faith-driven, and resilient communities across the state. “Save Me” wasn’t just a song—it was a prayer, a confession, and a message of hope.
Why Kentucky Loved It:
- Deeply honest lyrics about pain and recovery
- A Southern sound that feels lived-in, not commercial
- Resonates with real-life struggles across the state
What Kentucky’s Top Songs Say About Its Music Culture
Kentucky’s most-streamed songs in 2024–2025 paint a clear picture: emotion, truth, and storytelling always come first.
- Lyrics Matter Here 🎙️
Whether it’s the vulnerability of Benson Boone, the poetic sadness of Zach Bryan, or the intensity of Kendrick Lamar, Kentucky fans gravitate toward music with meaning.
- Genre Is Just a Vibe 🎶
From country and rap to disco and live soul, Kentucky’s playlists are as varied as its landscapes. What matters isn’t style—it’s substance.
- Real Life Is the Theme 🥹
These songs weren’t just catchy. They were real. Songs about heartbreak, healing, rebellion, joy, and pain—the highs and lows that define life in Kentucky.
Methodology
This article is based on YouTube Music’s regional streaming data, analyzing the top songs in Kentucky between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025. Rankings reflect total view counts by users in the state during that period, offering an authentic look at what people in Kentucky were really listening to.
Final Thoughts: A Soundtrack of Soul and Survival
Kentucky’s most-played songs this year weren’t just hits—they were moments of connection, comfort, and courage. They played in trucks on long drives, in kitchens after work, in bedrooms at 2 a.m., and at full volume in cars with friends.
They helped Kentuckians grieve, dance, grow, and reflect. And most importantly—they told the truth.
These nine songs didn’t just top charts. They touched hearts—and left something behind.
WRITTEN BY
Gloria Conroy
Copyright © 2025