Minnesota’s Most-Streamed Artists of 2024–2025: The Voices That Shaped the North Star State

From the bustling Twin Cities to the quiet shores of Lake Superior, music pulses through the heart of Minnesota. Known for producing icons like Prince and Bob Dylan, the state has long been a creative powerhouse. Today, the musical tastes of Minnesotans continue to reflect a deep appreciation for lyrical mastery, emotional truth, and sonic diversity.

Between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025, Minnesota’s most-streamed artists on YouTube Music revealed a fascinating blend of legacy legends, cultural commentators, and emotional storytellers. From the rugged verses of Eminem to the poetic musings of Taylor Swift and the genre-blending hits of Morgan Wallen, this list shows that Minnesotans crave music that not only entertains—but speaks to their soul. If you want to learn how to play music, check out music lessons in Boulder.

Let’s explore the top five most-streamed artists in Minnesota, and what their dominance says about the state’s unique musical identity.

1. Eminem – 28.9 Million Views

Leading the list with 28.9 million views, Eminem remains Minnesota’s most-streamed artist—and it’s no surprise. The Detroit-born rapper’s influence has long extended across the Midwest, and his music continues to resonate with Minnesotans who appreciate raw emotion, lyrical depth, and relentless intensity.

With his 2024 announcement of a new album, The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce), fans across the state revisited his iconic catalog. From “Lose Yourself” and “Mockingbird” to “Stan” and “Godzilla,” Eminem’s music dominated playlists in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, and beyond.

His music speaks to struggle and survival—two themes that resonate deeply in a state that knows both harsh winters and resilient communities. Whether you’re driving down I-94 or snowed in during a blizzard, Eminem’s voice provides both motivation and introspection.

Why Minnesota Loves Eminem:

• Deep, autobiographical lyrics that connect emotionally

• Timeless catalog with continued relevance

• Midwest pride and unmatched technical skill

In Minnesota, Eminem’s music is more than nostalgic—it’s foundational.

2. Taylor Swift – 27.8 Million Views

Coming in just behind with 27.8 million views, Taylor Swift is clearly a favorite across Minnesota’s diverse communities. From suburban teens in Woodbury to college students in Duluth and young professionals in the Twin Cities, her music continues to provide a voice for love, growth, and personal evolution.

With her Eras Tour still making waves and 2024’s release of 1989 (Taylor’s Version), Swift once again dominated streaming platforms. Minnesotans returned to her discography for moments of joy, heartbreak, nostalgia, and empowerment. Songs like “Cruel Summer,” “All Too Well (10-Minute Version),” “Anti-Hero,” and “Enchanted” filled playlists for road trips, study sessions, and late-night walks.

Swift’s lyrics offer a diary-like intimacy that resonates across age groups—and her ability to move between genres makes her a versatile favorite for nearly any occasion.

Why Minnesota Loves Taylor Swift:

• Emotionally resonant lyrics with literary flair

• Speaks to multiple generations and life stages

• A go-to artist for both celebration and comfort

Minnesota turns to Taylor for soundtracks to both life’s highs and its hardest moments.

3. Kendrick Lamar – 27.0 Million Views

With 27.0 million views, Kendrick Lamar proves that Minnesota has a deep respect for intellectual hip-hop and socially conscious storytelling. Known for his complex narratives and poetic prowess, Kendrick’s presence on this list reflects the state's thoughtful, justice-driven, and culturally aware identity.

In 2024, Kendrick shook the music world with his diss track “Not Like Us,” reigniting interest in his powerful catalog. Minnesotans responded in kind, revisiting seminal works like good kid, m.A.A.d city, To Pimp a Butterfly, and DAMN., as well as newer tracks from Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers.

In communities like Minneapolis—where social justice movements have shaped national headlines—Kendrick’s voice has carried real weight. His music invites conversation, introspection, and understanding, all of which align closely with Minnesota values.

Why Minnesota Loves Kendrick Lamar:

• Lyrics that challenge, educate, and inspire

• Blends cultural commentary with artistic brilliance

• A favorite among students, activists, and thinkers

Kendrick’s music provides the soundtrack for Minnesota’s progressive pulse.

4. Morgan Wallen – 25.0 Million Views

With 25.0 million views, Morgan Wallen brings country into the spotlight—proving that Minnesota’s love for heartfelt storytelling and small-town vibes is alive and well. From the farm towns of southern Minnesota to cabins in the north woods, Wallen’s music bridges rural life with modern relatability.

Songs like “Last Night,” “You Proof,” and “Sand in My Boots” were major streamers in 2024, driven by his wildly successful album One Thing at a Time. His themes of heartbreak, resilience, and self-reflection resonated deeply in regions where life moves slower, nature is closer, and feelings run deep.

Even in the metro areas, Wallen’s catchy hooks and down-to-earth persona have earned him fans who may not typically lean country. His success proves that good storytelling transcends genre boundaries.

Why Minnesota Loves Morgan Wallen:

• Speaks to rural and suburban listeners alike

• Lyrics that reflect real emotions and lived experiences

• Bridges classic country with modern radio appeal

From lakeside bonfires to backroad drives, Wallen’s songs are part of Minnesota’s summer soundtrack.

5. Future – 20.4 Million Views

Rounding out the top five with 20.4 million views, Future brings a dose of hypnotic trap beats, late-night energy, and emotionally complex swagger to Minnesota’s playlists. Known for his prolific output and melodic murkiness, Future’s music provides a contrast to the state’s typically calm, introspective mood—and Minnesotans love it.

Whether it’s “Mask Off,” “March Madness,” “Wait For U,” or newer tracks with Metro Boomin and Drake, Future’s sound is as at home in a downtown Minneapolis nightclub as it is in a pair of headphones on a midnight drive across Highway 61.

Future gives Minnesota listeners a chance to feel bold, untouchable, and emotionally raw all at once. His vulnerability, tucked beneath a veil of confidence, makes his music addictive.

Why Minnesota Loves Future:

• Late-night vibes with emotional undercurrents

• Perfect for solo reflection and party playlists alike

• Consistent output and genre-defining sound

Future adds edge, rhythm, and mood to Minnesota’s ever-diverse music appetite.

What Minnesota’s Top Artists Say About Its Music Culture

Minnesota’s top-streamed artists in 2024–2025 paint a picture of a state that values emotional honesty, thoughtful storytelling, and genre fluidity. From hip-hop’s poetic giants to country crooners and pop icons, the state embraces music that speaks truthfully, no matter the style.

1. Lyrics Matter 💬

All five artists are celebrated for their storytelling and wordplay, proving that Minnesotans prioritize songs that make them think, feel, and reflect.

2. Emotional Versatility Is Key 💡

Whether it’s Eminem’s catharsis, Swift’s nostalgia, Kendrick’s truth-telling, Wallen’s longing, or Future’s emotional chaos—Minnesotans stream artists who embrace the full range of human experience.

3. Genre Lines Are Blurry 🌎

Pop, rap, country, trap—Minnesota doesn’t box itself in. The diversity of these artists shows a state open to cross-genre exploration and musical evolution.

4. Music Reflects Identity 🧠

From social commentary to rural reflection, Minnesota chooses artists whose songs align with local culture, values, and personal experiences.

Methodology

This article is based on YouTube Music’s regional streaming data, which tracks total view counts by location. Rankings reflect the top five most-streamed artists in Minnesota between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025, based on user behavior across the state.

These insights provide a detailed and authentic look into what Minnesotans are actually listening to, beyond what’s trending nationally or on curated playlists.

Final Thoughts: Minnesota’s Soundtrack of Thought and Feeling

Minnesota’s most-streamed artists this year reveal a beautiful truth: this is a state that listens with its heart and thinks with its headphones on. Whether you’re walking through the snow in Saint Paul, hiking the North Shore, or commuting through Minneapolis, music here is not just background noise—it’s a source of connection, meaning, and emotion.

From Eminem’s fierce introspection to Taylor’s lyrical heart, Kendrick’s vision, Wallen’s storytelling, and Future’s brooding beats, these artists helped Minnesotans process, celebrate, and move through life in all its complexity.

And as we head deeper into 2025, one thing is clear: Minnesota will keep listening—and feeling—deeply.