Billboard Factors YouTube Streams Into Charts; Baauer's "Harlem Shake" Tops Hot 100

posted in: Music News

Just a week after hitting the point where a viral sensation becomes a viral annoyance to many (see: any of the hundreds of videos released daily), Baauer’s “Harlem Shake” has found itself debuting atop the Billboard Hot 100 with barely any radio play or exposure outside the internet.

So how did this happen?

Starting this week, Billboard has begun factoring YouTube streams into their charts. It’s a transition that has been a long time coming, as many people now choose the video service when hoping to listen to free music online, and the impact of the switch needs no further explanation. Now when a video or song goes viral, the charts will reflect it, and no one has more traction in the music video space right now than Baauer. He has yet to release a video himself, but the countless dance memes made featuring his music has done most of the leg work for him. Those unfamiliar with the song and meme can stream videos featuring each, below.

As if opening at number one was not a big enough accomplishment, “Harlem Shakes” out-of-the-blue success also makes the 21st single to ever debut at the top of the Hot 100 chart. Expect more from the EDM mastermind in the coming weeks.