Why is YouTube withholding data from Billboard charts?

YouTube is protesting Billboard's formula, which they claim unfairly weights subscription streams higher than ad-supported streams, not reflecting current fan engagement.

What changes did Billboard make to its music charts?

Billboard recently narrowed the gap between paid and unpaid streams from a 1:3 ratio to 1:2.5, but YouTube believes this is still insufficient.

When will YouTube's data withdrawal affect Billboard charts?

The first Billboard charts to be impacted by YouTube's data halt will be those released on January 16.

Home / Technology / YouTube boycotts Billboard charts over unfair stream counts

YouTube boycotts Billboard charts over unfair stream counts

18 Dec, 2025

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Summary

YouTube withholding streaming data from Billboard charts.
Dispute centers on Billboard's unequal weighting of streams.
New Billboard formula change is insufficient for YouTube.

YouTube boycotts Billboard charts over unfair stream counts

YouTube has ceased providing its streaming data to Billboard, citing dissatisfaction with the music charts' "outdated formula." Lyor Cohen, YouTube's global head of music, explained that the current system unfairly prioritizes subscription-supported streams over ad-supported ones, not mirroring how fans engage with music today.

This action follows Billboard's recent adjustment to its analytics, which narrowed the disparity between paid and unpaid streams from a 1:3 ratio to 1:2.5. However, YouTube finds this change insufficient, advocating for every stream to be counted equally, whether from a paid subscription or ad-supported platform, emphasizing that "every fan matters."

The consequence of YouTube's data withdrawal will first impact charts released on January 16. While this dispute unfolds, established holiday music traditions, like Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" chart performance, will remain unaffected.