Streaming charts and airplay data in 2017 were driven by a handful of tracks that defined the sound of the year. These best selling songs of 2017 combined catchy hooks, high-energy production, and strategic playlist placement to dominate global markets.
From Latin crossover hits to genre-blending pop anthems, the year showcased tracks that performed strongly on streaming platforms, radio, and retail sales. The following sections break down the commercial landscape, key releases, and cultural impact of the top songs in 2017.
| Song | Artist | Peak Chart Position | Primary Market | Estimated Units (Millions) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shape of You | Ed Sheeran | 1 | Global | 18.0 |
| Despacito (Remix) | Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee | 1 | Latin/Global | 14.5 |
| See You Again | Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth | 1 | North America | 10.2 |
| That's What I Like | Bruno Mars | 1 | North America | 7.8 |
| Humble | Kendrick Lamar | 1 | Global | 9.6 |
Streaming Dominance in 2017
Streaming became the primary revenue source for many of the best selling songs of 2017. Platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube prioritized algorithmic playlists, which amplified tracks with strong listener retention and viral moments.
Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You" exemplified streaming dominance, with repeat plays and playlist features pushing it to the top of nearly every major chart. Its success highlighted how streaming data could translate into sustained sales and global reach.
Cross-Cultural Crossovers
Latin music achieved mainstream global acceptance in 2017, with "Despacito" leading the charge. The remix featuring Justin Bieber broke streaming records and exposed new audiences to Spanish-language pop.
This crossover was supported by strategic marketing, bilingual hooks, and radio-friendly edits. As a result, Latin artists gained stronger footholds in North American and European markets, reshaping the global music landscape.
Genre-Blending and Collaborations
The year thrived on genre fusion, blending hip-hop, pop, Latin, and EDM into cohesive hits. "Humble" merged minimalist trap production with sharp lyricism, while "That's What I Like" incorporated R&B, funk, and pop sensibilities.
Collaborations also played a key role, with features such as the Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth pairing on "See You Again" to honor a film legacy while appealing to multiple demographics.
Marketing and Playlist Influence
Curated playlists and algorithmic recommendations heavily influenced which songs became best selling tracks of 2017. Labels invested in securing prime placements on Discover Weekly, Release Radar, and main pop playlists.
Social media campaigns, short-form video trends, and influencer partnerships further boosted track awareness. Songs that resonated on TikTok or Vine often saw measurable spikes in streams and downloads within days.
Key Takeaways from 2017's Best Sellers
- Streaming performance is a primary indicator of commercial success.
- Latin crossovers can achieve global scale with the right remix and promotion.
- Genre-blending tracks appeal to diverse listener bases and radio formats.
- Playlist placement and algorithmic support are critical for sustained growth.
- Collaborations with established artists can accelerate reach across demographics.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which song was the best selling globally in 2017?
"Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran is widely regarded as the best selling song globally in 2017, driven by massive streaming numbers and strong retail sales across multiple regions.
Did Latin tracks have a strong presence in the 2017 best sellers?
Yes, "Despacito (Remix)" played a major role in bringing Latin music to global audiences, achieving top positions on charts worldwide and setting streaming records.
How did streaming affect the sales of the best selling songs of 2017?
Streaming accounted for a large share of revenue, with playlist placement and listener retention directly impacting a song's commercial success and longevity on charts.
Which collaborations stood out among the best selling songs in 2017?
The "See You Again" pairing and the "Despacito" remix featuring Justin Bieber illustrate how collaborations can broaden audience reach and drive sales across markets.