2020’s top-trending videos and creators
Dec 01, 2020 – minute read
Living room workouts without any equipment (except maybe a couch). Comedy sketches about at-home haircuts. Virtual graduation ceremonies facilitated by John Krasinski.
Like many of you, this is not what we would have predicted 2020 would look like, either.
As the world changed in unimaginable ways, you looked to creators and artists to help you make sense of these shifts, find connection, and expand your boundaries beyond the four walls of your homes.
In the U.S., this year’s top trending videos show how creators quickly adapted to the unforeseen challenges of 2020 while also addressing the unique, personal needs of their communities.”
In the U.S., this year’s top trending videos show how creators quickly adapted to the unforeseen challenges of 2020 while also addressing the unique, personal needs of their communities.
When protests against racial injustice swept the nation, Dave Chappelle channeled his thoughts into an impromptu, socially-distanced show that captured the emotions felt by many. When audiences sought out sources of levity, creators provided no shortage of options: Mark Rober constructed an elaborate ninja warrior course for… squirrels; MrBeast celebrated the July 4 with the world’s largest firework; Dude Perfect laughed at the many relatable stereotypes to emerge in quarantine; and John Krasinski shared positive stories through SomeGoodNews. Also included among this year’s top trending videos: The most-viewed coming out vlog of all time, a break-up announcement, a new take on playing a popular game, and an election parody from SNL.
While engagement was up across YouTube, these 10 videos resonated with U.S. viewers the most. Collectively, they were watched more than 356 million times and for around 48 million hours. The channels behind them total more than 175 million subscribers.
Top Trending Videos (U.S.)
Netflix Is A Joke - 8:46, Dave Chappelle
Mark Rober - Building the Perfect Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
SNL - First Debate Cold Open
JeffreeStar - We Broke Up
MrBeast - I Bought The World’s Largest Firework
NikkieTutorials, I’m Coming Out.
Dude Perfect - Quarantine Stereotypes
SomeGoodNews - Some Good News with John Krasinski - Ep 1
This year’s top creators list demonstrates MrBeast’s continuing impact, and the popularity of gaming creators like Dream, Tiko, JoshDub, and LazarBeam, who found connection through social gaming.
Top Creators (U.S.)
Among the year’s breakout creators, Chloe Ting helped viewers sweat at home with workout challenges, SomeGoodNews brought the class of 2020 a virtual prom and graduation to remember, and Hyram offered a fresh perspective on skincare.
Breakout Creators (U.S.)
In music, Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion took on the world of hip-hop, Drake cemented his influence, Lil Baby released a powerful protest anthem, and so much more.
Top Music Videos (U.S.)
Future - Life is Good ft. Drake
Tekashi 6ix9ine - Gooba
Lil Baby x 42 Dugg - We Paid
NLE Choppa - Walk Em Down ft. Roddy Ricch
Cardi B - WAP ft. Megan Thee Stallion
DaBaby - Rockstar ft. Roddy Ricch
Roddy Ricch - The Box
Drake - Laugh Now Cry Later ft. Lil Durk
YoungBoy Never Broke Again - Lil Top
Lil Baby - The Bigger Picture
For a deeper look at the way video trends shaped digital culture in 2020, check out the Culture & Trends site.