Full Breakdown
BTS's "SWIM" Dominates Global Music Charts for Three Consecutive Weeks
4/14/2026, 11:48:42 AM
Chart Performance Overview
BTS's latest title track, "SWIM," has achieved significant success by topping both the Billboard Global 200 and the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. charts for three consecutive weeks. The song, which debuted as the group's eighth No. 1 on these charts, recorded 83.3 million streams and 44,000 downloads globally from April 3 to April 9, according to data from Luminate. Despite a decline in both metrics—down 21% in streams and 61% in downloads—"SWIM" has maintained its leading position.
In the Global Excl. U.S. chart, "SWIM" garnered 72.2 million streams and 20,000 downloads, also reflecting a decrease of 21% and 56%, respectively. Other notable tracks in the top five include Dominic Fike's "Babydoll," which rose to No. 2, and Tame Impala and JENNIE's "Dracula," which reached No. 3.
Broader Album Success
The success of "SWIM" is complemented by the performance of BTS's fifth studio album, "ARIRANG," which has also topped the Billboard 200 for three consecutive weeks. This marks a historic achievement as BTS becomes the first K-pop act to maintain the No. 1 position for three weeks on this chart. The album recorded 124,000 album-equivalent units in its latest tracking week, despite a 34% drop from the previous week.
In addition to its chart-topping status in the U.S., "ARIRANG" has performed well internationally, ranking No. 2 on Japan's Oricon Weekly Digital Album chart and No. 5 on the UK Official Albums Top 100. The album's tracks, including "Body to Body" and "2.0," have also made significant impacts on various global charts.
Official Statements & Responses
Billboard's charts are compiled based on streaming and sales data from over 200 territories worldwide, with Luminate ensuring the authenticity of the data. The organization reviews submissions and removes any suspicious or unverifiable data before final calculations are published.
Criticism & Opposition
While BTS's achievements have been celebrated, some critics argue that the group's dominance in the charts may overshadow emerging artists in the global music scene. The significant drop in downloads and streams for "SWIM" has also raised questions about the sustainability of its chart performance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “1 on Spotify's Daily Top Songs Global chart for 24 consecutive days (March 20–April 12).” — Billboard
- “BTS has become the first K-pop act to spend three consecutive weeks at No.” — Billboard
- “The album has also performed strongly on global platforms, holding the top spot on Spotify’s Weekly Top Albums chart for three straight weeks.” — Donga
What's Next
BTS continues its "ARIRANG" world tour, with upcoming performances scheduled across Japan, North America, Europe, South America, and Asia, which may further influence their chart positions and global presence. The next Billboard chart update is expected on April 14, 2026.
