This classic '80s song just hit 1 billion streams on Spotify [Astley]

[240B]

This classic '80s song just hit 1 billion streams on Spotify

USA TODAY
Edward Segarra
June 03, 2025



No, Mr. Astley, this isn't a fake-out. You're streaming royalty now.

British pop star Rick Astley, whose inescapable '80s hit "Never Gonna Give You Up" found an unexpected renaissance in the digital age, has joined the ranks of Spotify's "Billions Club," according to a June 2 press release. The soulful synth-pop track, taken from Astley's 1987 debut album "Whenever You Need Somebody," has exceeded one billion streams on the music platform.

"I never could have imagined back in 1987 that 'Never Gonna Give You Up' would still be going strong decades later," Astley, 59, said in a statement. "Thanks to streaming platforms, a whole new generation has been able to discover music like mine. Reaching one billion streams is something I never dreamed of and to everyone who's ever listened, thank you."

(more)
https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2025/06/02/rick-astley-billion-spotify-streams/83997128007/

[berdie]

I would like to believe that the younger generation is boosting his views. That would indicate a reversal in the current music.

I have noticed that commercials are using retro music. A lot! I haven't heard this piece on a commercial...but I may have missed it.

[Wingnut]

Does this mean "Rickrolling" will make a comeback too?

[240B]

Does this mean "Rickrolling" will make a comeback too?

Rick Astley Celebrates 'Never Gonna Give You Up' Reaching 1 Billion Spotify Streams: 'Who Would've Believed?'

People
By Marina Watts
June 3, 2025

Rick Astley is never gonna give you up — and neither will his fans.

On Monday, June 2, the Grammy-nominated artist shared his thoughts on the 1987 song "Never Gonna Give You Up" reaching one billion streams on Spotify.

"So who would've believed after all these years 'Never Gonna Give You Up' has had a billion streams on Spotify. That's a billion streams. How amazing," Astley, 59, said in an Instagram video. "Thank you for listening and lots of love, and I'll see you all soon."

"Never Gonna Give You Up" was part of Astley's debut solo album, Whenever You Need Somebody released in his early 20s. The song reached no. 1 on over 20 international charts upon release, per The Hollywood Reporter. As of publishing, the music video has over 1.6 billion views on YouTube.

(more)
https://people.com/rick-astley-celebrates-never-gonna-give-you-up-1-billion-spotify-streams-11747225

[Weird Tolkienish Figure]

What's funny, I saw a documentary about him on youtube, he thought his own song sucked, totally forgot about it back in the 80's before it became a hit.

[240B]

What's funny, I saw a documentary about him on youtube, he thought his own song sucked, totally forgot about it back in the 80's before it became a hit.

I read the same thing. And he is right. The song is very simplistic, kitschy, and kind of funny. But that, with the video, is what makes it Great.

It is an iconic representation of what it is. LOL

[DB]

Eh...

[DB]

Here's one with nearly 2.5 billion views:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UVNT4wvIGY