During 2017, YouTube search behavior reflected a global appetite for music, entertainment, and practical guidance across cultures and devices. These most searched keywords on youtube 2017 highlight what people were actively looking for, from blockbuster music videos to everyday problem solving.
Understanding the top YouTube search queries in 2017 reveals shifts in content trends, viral moments, and user intent that shaped the platform throughout the year. The following sections break down notable patterns using data-rich summaries, specific keyword stories, and actionable insights.
| Rank | Keyword | Primary Category | Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psycho | Music Video | Global |
| 2 | Despacito | Music Video | Latin America, Global |
| 3 | Game of Thrones | TV Show | US, Europe |
| 4 | iPhone 8 | Tech & Gadgets | US, India, Europe |
| 5 | LOL | Entertainment | Global |
Music Phenomenon: Despacito in 2017
Global Reach and Records
The search term "Despacito" dominated YouTube in 2017, driving record-breaking views and reshaping music discovery on the platform. Its blend of catchy hooks and cross-language appeal made it a staple in playlists worldwide.
Creator and Artist Impact
Artists Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee, along with remix collaborators, saw subscriber surges and engagement spikes, demonstrating how YouTube search behavior can amplify global music trends.
Trending Shows: Game of Thrones Searches
Seasonal Spikes and Fan Engagement
"Game of Thrones" consistently led YouTube searches during new episode windows in 2017, with fans turning to reaction videos, reviews, and recaps to deepen their viewing experience.
Content Opportunities for Creators
Creators optimized for these search moments by producing timely analysis, theory breakdowns, and episode commentary, aligning their content with high-intent viewer demand.
Tech Interest: iPhone 8 Searches
Hands-On Reviews and Comparisons
Searches for "iPhone 8" in 2017 reflected strong commercial intent, with viewers seeking drop tests, camera comparisons, and iOS 11 impressions before making purchase decisions.
How Creators Matched User Needs
Tech reviewers expanded their catalog with side-by-side comparisons, upgrade advice, and practical tips, turning product curiosity into informed buying behavior.
Entertainment and Challenges: LOL Compilation
Viral Moments and Short-Form Comedy
"LOL" searches highlighted a demand for quick laughs and highlight clips, fueling the growth of compilation channels and reaction-centric formats on YouTube.
Monetization and Community Building
Creators leaned into humor, timing, and thumbnails that signaled instant entertainment, transforming casual searches into loyal subscriber bases.
Key Takeaways on 2017 YouTube Search Trends
- Music-driven terms like Despacito and Psycho shaped global viewing patterns.
- Event TV such as Game of Thrones created recurring search spikes that creators could plan around.
- Tech product searches reflected high commercial intent and demand for detailed comparisons.
- Entertainment and challenge content sustained high search volume through viral moments.
- Aligning content timing, style, and SEO with search behavior boosted visibility and engagement.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why did Despacito perform so strongly in YouTube search in 2017?
Its infectious rhythm, Spanish-language appeal, and Justin Bieber remix drove repeated searches and recommendations across social platforms.
What kind of content helped Game of Thrones rank among top YouTube searches?
Timely recaps, spoiler-free reviews, and in-depth theory videos released around episode airings captured high-intent search traffic.
How did iPhone 8 search behavior differ from entertainment keywords?
Searches showed strong commercial intent, with users seeking detailed reviews, specs comparisons, and purchase guidance rather than passive entertainment.
What lesson can creators take from LOL compilation trends in 2017?
Short, punchy, easily shareable clips optimized for quick discovery can build large audiences when aligned with trending search behavior.