BTS break Taylor Swift's YouTube record for biggest music video debut
The video was viewed more than 45 million times within 24 hours
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Korean boy band BTS have broken Taylor Swift’s record for the biggest music video debut on YouTube.
The video for their new single “Idol” was viewed more than 45 million times within its first 24 hours on the video sharing platform, surpassing Swift’s “Look What You Made Me Do”, which earned 43.2 million views in 2017. As of writing, the “Idol” video had amassed more than 90 million views.
A tweet from YouTube’s official Twitter account said: “Congratulations to BTS! “IDOL” now holds the record for the biggest music video debut in YouTube history, earning over 45 million views in its first 24 hours.”
“Idol” is a single from BTS’ latest album, Love Yourself: Answer, which was released on Friday. An alternative version of the track, featuring American rapper Nicki Minaj, was added to the album last minute and does not feature on the physical release.
BTS – consisting of V, Jimin, Jin, Suga, Jungkook, RM and J-Hope – debuted in 2013. They have enjoyed huge success, winning top music awards and becoming the first ever Korean act to top the Billboard 200 albums chart.
The band will play their first official US tour beginning in September, with dates at Los Angeles’ Staples Centre.
Additional reporting by agencies.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments