There’s no secret to anybody that the music has faced challenges over the years, particularly for the artist who wants to debut their newest musical projects at the top of the American market. That’s why the radio audience has become a pivotal factor for songs to reach the top, even compared with pure sales or streams as we’re currently living in the streaming era. Only hits will debut with high radio audiences; these are the songs that were able to reach, including BTS’ “SWIM.”
5. Olivia Rodrigo’s “Drop Dead”: The new single off Olivia’s third album has made waves among the ex-Disney acts. The artist reached 23 million US Radio audience during its first week, securing her fourth No. 1.
4. BTS’ “SWIM”: After a long hiatus, BTS were back to prove why they are still the biggest representation of the kpop genre worldwide. “SWIM” reached 25 million US Radio audience, showcasing the great support the song received from their fans, better known as ARMY.
3. Harry Styles’ “Aperture”: The very first song revealed by the artist for his third album had an amazing reception among the Netizens. The song was able to gather a 27 million radio audience within 1 week, marking the return of the iconic idol.
2. Bruno Mars’ “I Just Might”: There’s no doubt that Bruno Mars has become a major moment in the pop scene by releasing hit after hit. Bruno’s new album wasn’t the exception to the rule as he dominated the first half of 2026 with his album, and his 32 million radio audience is the living proof of it.
1. Taylor Swift’s “I Knew It, I Knew You”: The promising hit of 2026 is ours now after Taylor Swift collaborated with “Toy Story 5” for a heartwarming song that represents all of Jessie’s feelings over the loss. The song has already debuted with almost 41 million radio audience, and it is expected that the number keeps increasing as the week is not over yet, so far the best release when it comes to radio.
