The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) has announced "APT." - the duet between Rozè and Bruno Mars - as the world's best-selling single of 2025. The distinction comes after an extremely competitive year in the international charts and is seen as indicative of the transformation of the global music market.
The achievement of "APT." has historic dimensions. For the first time, a song with lyrics that are not entirely in English has topped the IFPI global singles chart. In addition, Rozè becomes the first artist outside North America and Europe to reach the top of the annual chart – a clear signal of the growing influence of Asian artists and the accelerated blurring of language and regional barriers in the streaming era.
The success of the single is the result of a combination of a strong international presence, digital dominance and a strategically coordinated campaign by the label. Radio airplay, leading positions on global streaming platforms and extensive marketing across several continents contributed to the song's sustained presence at the top positions throughout the year.
This is Bruno Mars' first top spot on the annual IFPI chart since 2011, when “Just The Way You Are“ became a global hit. His return to the top highlights his ability to adapt to the new dynamics of the music market, dominated by streaming, social networks and multinational collaborations.
The 2025 ranking also outlines another trend – the sustainability of contemporary hits. It is a curious fact that all five singles from the top 5 of 2024 retained their positions in the following year – an unprecedented case in the history of global charts. According to analysts, this reflects a change in the strategy of major labels, which are increasingly investing in long-term audience building and global positioning, instead of short-term viral successes.
Collaborations continue to dominate the top of the chart. In second place is “Golden“ by HUNTR/X from the soundtrack of “K-Pop: Demon Hunters“, which confirms the sustainable influence of Korean pop culture on the global market. Bruno Mars is present in the top 5 for the second time with “Die With A Smile“ – a joint project with Lady Gaga. Kendrick Lamar and SZA's "Luther" also made the top 10, cementing their position on the American R&B and hip-hop scene.
A new generation of artists also made significant inroads.Alex Warren debuted at number three with "Ordinary" and Gracie Abrams entered the top 10 with "That's So True," confirming the rise of young artists who first gained popularity through digital platforms.
IFPI CEO Victoria Oakley said the 2025 results demonstrate a "more boundless than ever" music landscape, with audiences listening to and supporting artists regardless of their language or geographic origin. According to industry analysts, global streaming, social networks and synchronized international campaigns are the key drivers of this transformation.