Top 10 Most Viewed YouTube Videos in the World [ 2026 Update ]
Top 10 Most Viewed YouTube Videos in the World (2026 Update)
Discover which videos have broken viewing records and dominated YouTube’s history
YouTube is the world’s leading video platform, with over 2.7 billion monthly users streaming content across music, education, entertainment, and more. Millions of videos are uploaded each day — but only a handful have reached true legendary status with billions of views.
In this article, we look at the top 10 most viewed YouTube videos of all time — across all genres, from viral kids’ songs to global music hits, ranked by total lifetime views.
⤷ 1. Baby Shark Dance — Pinkfong (15+ Billion Views)
The runaway global champion of YouTube, Baby Shark Dance from Pinkfong holds the title for the most viewed video ever. Originally uploaded in June 2016, this catchy children’s song became a worldwide phenomenon and the first YouTube video to surpass 10 billion views.
⤷ 2. Despacito — Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee (8.9+ Billion Views)
This Spanish-language megahit took the world by storm after its release in 2017. With its infectious rhythm and record-breaking streaming performance, Despacito remains one of the most influential music videos in YouTube history.
⤷ 3. Wheels on the Bus — Cocomelon (8+ Billion Views)
Cocomelon’s nursery rhyme adaptation of Wheels on the Bus is one of the most popular kids’ videos ever. Early childhood content continues to dominate YouTube views thanks to repeated plays by younger viewers.
⤷ 4. Johny Johny Yes Papa — LooLoo Kids (7+ Billion Views)
Another children’s animation that captured global attention, Johny Johny Yes Papa combines a simple theme with memorable lyrics — making it a favorite among toddlers and their parents.
⤷ 5. Bath Song — Cocomelon (7+ Billion Views)
A third hit from Cocomelon in the top ranks, Bath Song is another example of how kids’ educational and entertainment content consistently drives massive repeat views on YouTube.
⤷ 6. See You Again — Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth (6.6+ Billion Views)
Released as the tribute song for Furious 7, See You Again became an instant classic. Emotional resonance and cross-generation appeal helped it rack up billions of views.
⤷ 7. Shape of You — Ed Sheeran (6.4+ Billion Views)
One of the most streamed songs of the last decade, Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You earned global acclaim and billions of YouTube views in the process.
⤷ 8. Phonics Song with Two Words — ChuChu TV (6.4+ Billion Views)
ChuChu TV’s phonics learning video became a hit among kids and parents alike, proving that educational content can thrive alongside mainstream entertainment.
⤷ 9. Gangnam Style — PSY (5.8+ Billion Views)
A viral pioneer, Gangnam Style was the first video in internet history to surpass one billion YouTube views and held the top spot for years before the rise of newer content.
⤷ 10. Uptown Funk — Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars (5.7+ Billion Views)
With its funky beat and high-energy visuals, Uptown Funk became a global party anthem and one of YouTube’s most viewed music videos ever.
Why Videos Viral
The most viewed videos share common traits:
- Repeatability: Kids’ songs get rewatched again and again.
- Universal appeal: Music transcends language barriers.
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Memorability: Catchy tunes and danceable beats boost shareability.
These trends show that both music and children’s educational content excel on YouTube’s global stage.
From the chart-topping global hit Despacito to the unstoppable Baby Shark Dance, YouTube’s most viewed videos reflect broad cultural trends and viewing behaviors. Whether educational, emotional, or simply joyful, these videos have broken records and redefined what it means to go viral online.
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