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A recent analysis of listening habits across major UK cities reveals fascinating regional disparities in musical preferences, showcasing an eclectic mix of artists that resonate deeply with local audiences. While Taylor Swift and Drake continue to dominate the charts on Spotify, unique local heroes such as Sam Fender in Newcastle and Oasis in Scotland illustrate the rich tapestry of British music fandom in 2025.
Regional Hits: A Breakdown of Musical Preferences
The data, culled from Spotify and YouTube, highlights a clear north-south divide in artist popularity. In Scotland, the revival of Oasis has sparked fervour among fans, while Newcastle boasts a homegrown talent in Sam Fender, who has captured the hearts of his fellow Geordies. This local pride manifests in surprising ways, with songs by these artists topping the charts where they hail from.
In Northern Ireland’s capital, Belfast, the K-Pop sensation “Demon Hunters” has taken the lead on YouTube, pushing Eminem into third place. Lady Gaga enjoys a significant following here as well, ranking second in the city. This unique blend of international superstars alongside local talents underscores the evolving landscape of music consumption in the UK.
A Closer Look at Notable Cities
Birmingham: A Hub for R&B and Hip-Hop
In Birmingham, Drake remains the most-played artist on Spotify, closely followed by Kendrick Lamar. Interestingly, the city shows an unusual fondness for Chris Brown, a rarity in the UK music scene, where he has made the top ten solely in this locale. The presence of D-Block Europe, who sit high on the YouTube charts, further illustrates Birmingham’s eclectic mix, combining local and international sounds.
Edinburgh and Glasgow: Oasis Fever
In Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, Oasis has found a fervent audience, ranking prominently on both Spotify and YouTube. This affection is mirrored in Glasgow, where the band also enjoys remarkable popularity. Additionally, both cities are embracing newer artists like Chappell Roan, who has made notable appearances in Spotify rankings. The love for Calvin Harris, a local DJ, also highlights the region’s distinctive musical identity.
Liverpool: A Celebration of Female Artists
Meanwhile, Liverpool stands out for its love of female pop stars. Taylor Swift leads the charge here, with Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande close behind. The city also showcases emerging talent, such as Skye Newman, whose songs are making waves on YouTube. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards celebrating female artists in traditionally male-dominated genres.
Nottingham and Sheffield: A Diverse Musical Palette
Nottingham has emerged as a surprising hub for K-Pop, with “Demon Hunters” pushing Eminem to the sidelines on YouTube. This city’s listeners have also shown a preference for SZA over the national favourite, Taylor Swift, indicating a unique local taste. Meanwhile, Sheffield’s devotion to the Arctic Monkeys remains strong, even in their absence from the scene, highlighting the deep roots of local music history in shaping current tastes.
Why it Matters
These findings illustrate more than just a list of popular artists; they highlight how local culture, geography, and community identity shape music preferences across the UK. As streaming platforms continue to evolve, understanding these regional nuances will be crucial for artists and marketers alike. They reveal a vibrant mosaic of musical expression that showcases local talent while still celebrating global icons. This blend of local and international influences not only enriches the UK music scene but also fosters a deeper connection between artists and their audiences, encouraging a more diverse and inclusive musical landscape for years to come.
