Top Songs in Virginia (2024–2025): The State's Most-Streamed Hits Reflect a Blend of Emotion, Culture, and Catchy Hooks
Virginia has long been a cradle of musical talent—from hip-hop royalty like Pharrell Williams and Missy Elliott to bluegrass roots and R&B innovators. So it’s no surprise that in 2024–2025, Virginians streamed music that reflects both the state's rich cultural identity and its forward-thinking taste.
Whether you're driving through the Blue Ridge Mountains, relaxing on the Chesapeake Bay, or bar-hopping in Richmond, music in Virginia is as diverse as its geography. According to YouTube Music streaming data, these were the top 9 most-streamed songs in Virginia over the past year. And each one tells a unique story of what the Commonwealth has been listening to, feeling, and vibing with in 2024. If you want to learn to play an instrument, check out music lessons in Boulder.
- “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar (9.29M views)
Kicking off the list in a dominant fashion is Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us”, with 9.29 million views across Virginia. The track, part of Kendrick’s explosive beef with Drake, became a cultural moment—and clearly, Virginians were paying attention.
Beyond the drama, “Not Like Us” is a masterclass in West Coast swagger, lyrical heat, and catchy production. Whether you’re a hip-hop head in Norfolk or a college student in Charlottesville, Kendrick gave Virginia the ultimate anthem of 2024.
Why It Topped the Charts in Virginia:
- Nationally recognized rap beef sparked massive curiosity
- Kendrick’s lyricism appeals to fans of intelligent hip-hop
- Played everywhere from gyms to TikTok
“Not Like Us” was more than a diss track—it became a national moment and a Virginia favorite.
- “Lose Control (Live)” – Teddy Swims (5.64M views)
At 5.64 million views, Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control (Live)” captured Virginia’s emotional heart. With his Southern soul roots and powerful vocal delivery, Swims delivered a raw, vulnerable performance that resonated with listeners from all backgrounds.
Whether streamed during rainy drives or emotional late nights, Virginians clearly connected with the song’s honesty and passion.
Why Virginians Connected With It:
- Emotional depth and authentic storytelling
- Live version added grit and power
- Popular across R&B, pop, and country circles
“Lose Control” reminded Virginia that music still has the power to move you to tears.
- “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Shaboozey (5.27M views)
Just slightly behind in popularity, Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” racked up 5.27 million views across Virginia. This genre-bending banger blends country vibes with hip-hop nostalgia, sampling the early 2000s classic “Tipsy” by J-Kwon.
What makes it even more special? Shaboozey is a Virginia native—hailing from Northern Virginia—so it’s no surprise locals streamed this one with pride.
Why It Took Off in Virginia:
- Home-state pride boosted local streams
- Perfect for parties, tailgates, and road trips
- Crosses the line between country and hip-hop seamlessly
“A Bar Song” became Virginia’s party anthem of the year—local roots included.
- “Die With A Smile” – Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars (5.25M views)
Next, with 5.25 million views, “Die With A Smile” proved that Virginians still love drama, passion, and powerhouse vocals. This theatrical pop ballad from two of music’s most iconic voices offered an old-school approach with modern flair.
From wedding playlists to solo serenades in the car, Gaga and Bruno reminded Virginians that emotional pop is here to stay.
Why It Worked:
- Iconic vocalists with mass appeal
- Retro feel appealed to older generations
- A hit among fans of soul, Broadway, and emotional pop
“Die With A Smile” gave Virginia a dose of cinematic grandeur.
- “Beautiful Things” – Benson Boone (5.11M views)
With 5.11 million views, Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” tugged at the heartstrings of thousands across Virginia. The emotional ballad about appreciating what you have—and fearing losing it—was the soundtrack to quiet moments and personal growth.
Whether streaming from the mountains of Roanoke or the suburbs of Fairfax, Virginians found peace and meaning in Boone’s vulnerable delivery.
Why It Resonated:
- Simple, piano-driven sincerity
- Wide generational appeal
- Ideal for reflection and introspection
“Beautiful Things” reminded Virginia to pause, reflect, and feel.
- “APT.” – ROSÉ & Bruno Mars (4.41M views)
At 4.41 million views, “APT.” brought a sultry and sophisticated energy to Virginia’s charts. With K-pop royalty ROSÉ (of BLACKPINK) teaming up with Bruno Mars, this slow-burning duet created a luxurious and late-night vibe.
It gained momentum in urban centers like Arlington, Alexandria, and Richmond—places with young, diverse populations that are plugged into global trends.
Why Virginians Streamed It:
- Smooth production and mature vibe
- ROSÉ’s massive K-pop following + Bruno’s global stardom
- Great for late nights, date nights, and everything in between
“APT.” gave Virginia’s playlist a touch of modern elegance.
- “Wanna Be” – GloRilla & Megan Thee Stallion (4.12M views)
With 4.12 million views, “Wanna Be” was the state’s ultimate female empowerment anthem. GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion brought unapologetic swagger and sharp lyricism to this viral hit, and Virginians embraced it in droves.
It found heavy rotation among college students, gym-goers, and anyone who needed a confidence boost and a bass drop.
Why It Hit Big:
- Strong feminist messaging
- Viral success on TikTok
- Club-ready beat and bold attitude
“Wanna Be” was Virginia’s hype track for go-getters and boss energy.
- “Espresso” – Sabrina Carpenter (3.94M views)
At 3.94 million views, Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso” delivered a fun, flirty pop anthem that resonated strongly with younger Virginians. Its caffeinated metaphors, catchy chorus, and polished production made it a favorite among teens and young adults alike.
It was a staple in summer playlists, morning routines, and TikTok dances throughout the year.
Why It Charted:
- Extremely viral on social media
- Energetic and empowering
- Pop perfection with playful lyrics
“Espresso” brought brightness and bounce to Virginia’s streaming habits.
- “MILLION DOLLAR BABY” – Tommy Richman (3.66M views)
Rounding out the top 9 with 3.66 million views, Tommy Richman’s “MILLION DOLLAR BABY” was a funky, genre-defying hit that found favor with indie-pop lovers and TikTok trendsetters alike.
The track’s unique style, wavy production, and memorable hook made it a low-key favorite for Virginians who like their music cool, quirky, and forward-thinking.
Why It Made the List:
- Viral on TikTok and Instagram Reels
- Appeals to fans of funk, pop, and indie-R&B
- Youthful, vibey, and full of swagger
“MILLION DOLLAR BABY” proved that Virginia’s playlist isn’t afraid to get a little weird—in a good way.
What Virginia’s Top Songs Reveal About Its Musical Identity
Virginia’s top-streamed songs for 2024–2025 offer a compelling portrait of a state that’s multicultural, emotionally intelligent, and musically adventurous.
Key Takeaways:
- National Moments Still Matter From Kendrick Lamar’s rap battle anthem to Sabrina Carpenter’s TikTok triumph, Virginians pay attention to what’s trending—but choose their favorites carefully.
- Emotional Resonance Rules Songs like “Beautiful Things,” “Lose Control,” and “Die With A Smile” show that Virginia listens with its heart.
- Local Pride Is Powerful Shaboozey’s presence near the top is no coincidence—Virginians love supporting homegrown talent.
- Global Sounds Are Welcome Tracks like “APT.” signal a growing appreciation for international collaborations and genre fusion.
Methodology
This article is based on YouTube Music streaming data from users located in Virginia, collected between April 7, 2024, and April 7, 2025. Rankings are based on the total number of video plays from devices within the state during that timeframe.
Final Thoughts: Virginia’s 2024–2025 Soundtrack Is One to Remember
From the heartfelt melodies of Benson Boone to the fiery verses of Kendrick Lamar, Virginia’s top songs this year told stories of passion, self-expression, and cultural depth. The blend of local pride, global influence, emotional weight, and viral fun makes Virginia’s 2024–2025 playlist uniquely well-rounded.
No matter your vibe—be it soulful, sassy, or somewhere in between—there was a song on this list that made you feel seen, heard, and understood. And that, in the end, is what great music is all about.
WRITTEN BY
Gloria Conroy
Copyright © 2025