YouTube to stop submitting US streaming data to Billboard charts in 2026

The decision comes after a disagreement over how different types of streams are weighted

YouTube will stop submitting its streaming data to the US Billboard charts in 2026 following a disagreement over how different types of streams are weighted, the company confirmed on Wednesday.

The announcement was made by YouTube’s global head of music, Lyor Cohen, who said the decision centres on Billboard’s methodology for counting paid subscription streams versus ad-supported streams.

Billboard recently updated its rules to increase the value of ad-supported streams from a ratio of 1:3 to 1:2.5, meaning 2.5 free streams now equal one paid stream. YouTube has argued that all streams should be weighted equally.

In a statement published on the YouTube Music blog, Cohen said, “We believe every fan matters and every play should count equally, therefore after January 16, YouTube data will no longer be delivered or factored into the U.S. Billboard charts.”

He added, “Billboard uses an outdated formula that weights subscription-supported streams higher than ad-supported. This doesn’t reflect how fans engage with music today and ignores the massive engagement from fans who don’t have a subscription.”

Cohen noted that streaming accounts for 84% of U.S. recorded music revenue and said YouTube had spent years attempting to reach an agreement. “After a decade-long partnership and extensive discussions, they are unwilling to make meaningful changes,” he said, confirming that YouTube’s chart data would cease to be delivered after January 16, 2026.

Despite the change, YouTube will continue submitting its data to Luminate, a primary data provider used by Billboard in compiling its charts.

Billboard responded in a statement, saying, “There are so many ways a fan can support an artist they love, and each has a specific place in the music ecosystem.” The company added that it aims to balance consumer access, revenue analysis and industry guidance, and expressed hope that YouTube would reconsider its decision.

The move could have significant implications for how artist performance is measured in the U.S. music industry.