Since the advent rock 'n' roll the 1950s, music the USA and UK has dominated global music charts. Both countries have benefited considerably from the "soft power" hit songs English lyrics. However, the English-language dominance the music industry is under threat from songs from non-English-speaking countries. This is according to the music streaming giant Spotify. The company said English-language music was losing its long-time stranglehold. There has been a surge demand songs sung in Spanish, Korean, Arabic, and other languages. Spotify said the number non-English songs in the charts more than doubled 2020 and 2025.
A prime example how English is losing its hegemony is the worldwide popularity the Puerto Rican singer Bad Bunny. He sings exclusively Spanish and was Spotify's most streamed artist globally in 2025. Meanwhile, Spanish artist Rosalia astounded the music world her award-winning album "Lux," which she sings 13 different languages. Spotify said three music genres have seen their chart presence rise 30 per cent or more the past five years. These are Brazilian Funk, K-pop, and Trap Latino. Their streams increased 36 per cent, 31 per cent, and 30 per cent respectively. The music website NME said: "The trend is likely to continue growing further 2026."
