5 English Songs That Can Hit 1 Billion Views On YouTube In November 2023
Explore five amazing English songs that are on the verge of hitting 1 billion views on YouTube as we enter November 2023. From Katy Perry’s emotional “The One That Got Away” to Clean Bandit and Demi Lovato’s visually stunning “Solo,” these songs have become cultural landmarks. Join us on a journey through their stories, emotions, and performances that make them not just songs but timeless pieces of art in global pop culture.
1. Katy Perry – “The One That Got Away” (999 Million Views On YouTube)
Katy Perry released the poignant song “The One That Got Away” as part of her album “Teenage Dream” in 2011. Written by Katy Perry, Dr. Luke, and Max Martin, the song beautifully encapsulates the theme of lost love and reminiscence. It narrates a past relationship that didn’t stand the test of time, as the singer reflects on what could have been if they had stayed together.
The lyrics of the song delve into specific memories, like making out in a Mustang to Radiohead and getting matching tattoos. These vivid details make the song relatable to many who have experienced the bittersweet pangs of a lost love.
Katy Perry released the official music video for “The One That Got Away” on November 11, 2011. As of November 2023, it boasts an impressive 999 million views on YouTube, showcasing its enduring popularity.
The song performed exceptionally well on the charts, reaching the top 10 in various countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Its universal appeal and emotional depth contributed to its chart success.
Notably, “The One That Got Away” received recognition in the form of a Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Solo Performance. This recognition signifies its artistic and vocal excellence.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its initial release. Various artists have covered “The One That Got Away” and it has been featured in several TV shows and movies, highlighting its lasting impact on pop culture.
2. Clean Bandit – “Solo” (997 Million Views On YouTube)
“Clean Bandit – Solo (feat. Demi Lovato)” is a collaboration between the British electronic music band Clean Bandit and American singer Demi Lovato. Released in 2018, it quickly ascended to the top, becoming Clean Bandit’s fourth UK chart-topper and Demi Lovato’s first number-one hit in the UK.
The song delves into the theme of suspicion in a relationship, as one partner fears infidelity. This doubt leads to a confrontation where people label the accuser as a “psycho.” The lyrics explore the complexities of trust and insecurity in relationships.
The music video for “Solo” has garnered a staggering 997 million views on YouTube as of November 2023. Its visual storytelling and the charismatic performances of the artists have contributed to its popularity.
3. Rihanna – “What’s My Name?” (995 million views)
“What’s My Name?” is a collaboration between Barbadian singer Rihanna and Canadian rapper Drake. Released in 2010 as part of Rihanna’s album “Loud,” the song became an instant sensation. It secured the top spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Rihanna’s third number-one single in 2010.
The song’s lyrics center around the intoxicating chemistry between two individuals who are attracted to each other. It playfully repeats the phrase “Oh na-na, what’s my name?” in the chorus, capturing the flirtatious energy of the encounter.
The music video for “What’s My Name?” features Rihanna and Drake as love interests, enhancing the song’s narrative with its visual storytelling. This video has become iconic and, as of November 2023, has accumulated 995 million views on YouTube.
The song’s chart-topping success extended beyond the US, reaching the top of the charts in Hungary and the United Kingdom. It also achieved top-five positions in various other countries, emphasizing its global appeal.
4. One Direction – “Story Of My Life” (993 Million Views)
“Story of My Life” is a song by the English-Irish boy band One Direction. It was released as the second single from their third studio album, “Midnight Memories,” in 2013. The song is a heartfelt reflection on a tumultuous relationship that leads to lament and heartbreak.
The lyrics of “Story of My Life” convey the emotions of a turbulent relationship, where the ups and downs are explored. It provides a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of looking back on one’s life.
The “Story of My Life” music video, directed by Ben Winston in 2013, shows the band recreating old family photos. This gives the song a nostalgic and personal touch. As of November 2023, the video has gathered over 993 million views on YouTube.
The song received acclaim from critics who praised the band’s maturity and musical talent. It achieved commercial success by reaching the top ten in various countries, including the UK and the US, underscoring its global impact.
One Direction performed “Story of My Life” live on numerous occasions, including during their “Where We Are Tour” and at prestigious events like the Teen Choice Awards, further solidifying its place in their repertoire and the hearts of fans.
5. Ariana Grande – “Focus” (992 million views)
Ariana Grande’s song “Focus” came out in 2015 through Republic Records. It was supposed to be the main song for her third album, initially called “Moonlight” but later changed to “Dangerous Woman.” Even though it didn’t make it to the album, it’s still included as a bonus track on the Japanese edition.
The song revolves around themes of acceptance and focusing on someone on a deeper level, beyond superficial appearances and preferences. It encourages looking beyond the surface to discover who someone truly is.
The official music video for “Focus” was released on the same day as the song’s release, October 30, 2015. In the video, Ariana Grande performs the song with a group of dancers in colorful settings, creating a visually engaging experience. This video has garnered 992 million views on YouTube as of November 2023.
Ariana Grande performed “Focus” live on the Honda Stage at the iHeartRadio Theater in Los Angeles on October 31, 2015. This performance further highlighted her vocal prowess and stage presence.
While “Focus” may appear to be a catchy pop song, it holds a deeper message of acceptance and genuine connection. It encourages a focus on a person’s true self, beyond external attributes. However, the song’s message is nuanced, considering that Ariana Grande had co-writers, raising questions about the song’s authenticity and creative control.
These five English songs have achieved tremendous popularity, with their music videos amassing impressive views on YouTube. Every song is unique. For instance, Katy Perry’s “The One That Got Away” is deep and emotional, while Rihanna and Drake’s “What’s My Name?” is lively and playful. These songs aren’t just musically good; they also leave a lasting impression.