YouTube has grown into the world’s largest video-sharing platform, with billions of users watching content every day. From catchy songs to entertaining children’s content, the most viewed videos on YouTube have reached mind-blowing numbers that reflect global popularity and digital culture.
These videos have crossed language barriers and age groups, appealing to millions — if not billions — of viewers around the world. Let’s take a look at the top five most viewed YouTube videos of all time and explore what makes them so captivating.
1. Baby Shark Dance – Pinkfong
“Baby Shark Dance” by Pinkfong is currently the most viewed video on YouTube, with over 14 billion views. This children’s song became a global sensation due to its simple lyrics, repetitive rhythm, and easy-to-follow dance moves. It was especially popular among toddlers and preschoolers, who contributed to the video’s high view count through repeated plays.
The video also sparked various memes, dance challenges, and even live performances. Its popularity extended beyond YouTube to schools, family events, and social media platforms. It’s a perfect example of how content aimed at a young audience can dominate online spaces when it strikes the right chord.
2. Despacito – Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee
Released in 2017, “Despacito” quickly became a global hit and held the number one spot on YouTube for several years. With over 8 billion views, it remains one of the most iconic music videos of the decade. The combination of Latin rhythm, catchy melody, and stunning visuals from Puerto Rico helped it gain massive popularity worldwide.
The music video also played a major role in bringing Latin pop music into the mainstream global music scene. Its universal appeal and danceable beat transcended language barriers, making it a regular feature at parties, clubs, and radio stations across the globe.
3. Johny Johny Yes Papa – LooLoo Kids
“Johny Johny Yes Papa” is another children’s song that found immense popularity on YouTube. Created by LooLoo Kids, this simple nursery rhyme video has garnered over 7 billion views. Its playful storytelling and colorful animation make it appealing to young viewers, particularly children aged 1 to 5.
Its repetitive nature makes it easy for kids to memorize, and that encourages frequent replays. Parents often play such content to keep children entertained or help with early language development, which explains its viral success.
4. Bath Song – Cocomelon – Nursery Rhymes
Cocomelon is one of the biggest names in children’s content, and “Bath Song” is one of its most successful videos, earning over 6 billion views. The video teaches children about the importance of hygiene in a fun and musical way, with vibrant animations and friendly characters.
Parents appreciate the educational value, while kids love the cheerful tune and animation. Cocomelon has mastered the formula for success with its consistent theme of music-based learning, and “Bath Song” is a clear example of that winning strategy.
5. Shape of You – Ed Sheeran
“Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran is the most viewed non-children’s music video in the top five, with more than 6 billion views. Released in 2017, the song topped global music charts and became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time. The video’s sleek choreography and engaging storytelling helped push its popularity on YouTube.
The song’s blend of pop and tropical house made it appealing to a wide audience. Ed Sheeran’s global fanbase, along with strong support from streaming platforms and social media, ensured that “Shape of You” stayed relevant and widely played years after its release.
The dominance of children’s content and international music in YouTube’s most viewed videos reflects the platform’s diverse audience and evolving content trends. It also highlights how digital platforms can make simple songs or regional hits go global with the right mix of creativity and timing.
Whether for entertainment, education, or cultural impact, these videos continue to shape what billions of people see, share, and enjoy online. As YouTube grows, we can expect even more surprising entries to rise up the ranks of the most viewed videos.