YouTube streams to count on Billboard charts again from 2027 under a new 1:1.5 ratio
Billboard changed how it weights paid and ad-supported streams, ending a dispute that has kept YouTube data out of its charts since early 2026.
YouTube announced on November 9 that its streaming data will return to Billboard's US charts in 2027. The announcement came from Lyor Cohen, the platform's global head of music.
Under Billboard's revised album formula, 1,000 paid on-demand streams or 1,500 ad-supported streams equal one album consumption unit. The previous formula required 2,500 ad-supported streams. The change applies from the charts dated January 16, 2027, covering January 1 to 7.
YouTube stopped supplying data after the earlier weighting was introduced, arguing it undervalued fans using its free service. Billboard says the new ratios reflect its annual review of streaming revenue with Luminate. Music Ally notes the new ratio still falls short of what YouTube wanted. Sources differ slightly on when exactly YouTube's data stopped, with January 2026 chart dates cited.
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