Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)

Ranking at #188 among all-time billion-view videos, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by NirvanaVEVO has amassed over 2.21 billion views. It currently ranks #109 in the Music category, gaining approximately 15.6 million views in the last 30 days. At its current pace, the video is projected to reach 3 billion views in about 1,512 days, reflecting an average of around 520,366 daily views.

2,260,087,765 views
15,619,258 likes
Category
Music
Published
Jun 16, 2009
Duration
4:39

Quick Facts

Overall Rank
#193 of 1069 videos
Music Rank
#110
Total Views
2,260,087,765
Total Likes
15,619,258
Like Ratio
0.69%
Channel
NirvanaVEVO
Published
June 16, 2009
Duration
4:39
Last Updated
October 19, 2026
💰

Estimated Earnings

October 2026
$8,829.37 · ~$0.80 RPM
11,036,717 views gained this month

Best-estimate creator earnings using 2026 category-specific RPM data (Shorts, Music, Gaming, Finance, etc.) net of YouTube's 45% share. Actual revenue varies with geography, ad demand, audience, and YouTube Premium splits.

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YouTube's official description

Source: the uploader's own description on YouTube. The analysis above is YTBVC's own.

Official Music Video for Smells Like Teen Spirit performed by Nirvana. Nevermind (30th Anniversary Edition) is available now: https://Nirvana.lnk.to/Nevermind30thID Find Nirvana in any corner of the world: https://nirvana.lnk.to/Nevermind30thMapID Commemorate 30 years of ‘Nevermind’ with the album newly remastered from the original half-inch stereo analog tapes plus four previously unreleased international live shows from Amsterdam, Netherlands; Del Mar, California; Melbourne, Australia and T

The story behind the numbers

Nirvana's 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' continues to maintain its status as a significant cultural icon within the music video landscape. With over 2.21 billion views, it ranks #188 among all videos, showcasing its enduring popularity and influence over the years.

The full story of Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)

An original, data-driven analysis built from YTBVC's own tracking - view velocity, rankings, milestone projections and earnings estimates YouTube doesn't publish.

A billion-view milestone in context

Nirvana's iconic single, Smells Like Teen Spirit, has been a cornerstone of alternative rock since its release in 1991. The song's official music video, published on June 16, 2009, has since become a cultural touchstone, garnering a staggering 2,212,707,584 views on the NirvanaVEVO channel. This impressive view count places the video at 188th position among the 1,029 billion-view videos that have crossed this milestone on YouTube.

Crossing a billion views is a significant achievement, signifying a song's enduring popularity and its ability to transcend generations. It represents a testament to the artist's creative vision, the audience's emotional connection, and the platform's role in amplifying this connection. This milestone is often a benchmark for a song's impact, as it signifies a level of widespread recognition and cultural relevance. In the context of YouTube, a billion views is a threshold that separates a song from the masses, placing it in a select group of videos that have resonated with audiences worldwide.

As a music video, Smells Like Teen Spirit's success is a reflection of Nirvana's innovative approach to music and their ability to tap into the angst and disillusionment of a generation. The song's themes of rebellion and nonconformity continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a staple of alternative rock. The video's success can be attributed to its timeless appeal, which transcends the music itself and speaks to the emotions and experiences of those who have connected with the song.

The video's continued popularity, with approximately 15,610,985 views gained in the last 30 days and an average daily view count of around 520,366, underscores its lasting impact on popular culture. At its current pace, the video is projected to reach 3 billion views in approximately 1,512 days, a testament to its enduring appeal and the continued relevance of Nirvana's music.

The road to one billion views

The road to one billion views for Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" music video was a gradual process spanning nearly two decades. The video was published on June 16, 2009, marking the beginning of its journey to achieve such a milestone. As of now, the video has been online for approximately 17.1 years, during which it has garnered a substantial following and accumulated an impressive number of views.

The video's age and average pace of view accumulation provide insight into its trajectory. While it may have experienced fluctuations in view counts over the years, its steady progress suggests a consistent level of interest and engagement from viewers. The average daily views of ~520,366 indicate a relatively stable and sustained viewership, which is likely a result of the video's enduring popularity and the continued relevance of Nirvana's music. This stability is also reflected in the video's projected timeline to reach 3 billion views, which is estimated to take around 1,512 days at the current pace.

The video's performance in the music category is also noteworthy, ranking #109 of 639 in this category. This ranking suggests that the video has maintained a strong presence in the music community, even as new content is constantly being uploaded and competing for attention. The video's ability to consistently rank within the top 100 in its category indicates a dedicated and loyal fan base, which has contributed to its impressive view count over the years.

The video's view count has continued to grow in recent years, with an estimated ~15,610,985 views gained in the last 30 days. This recent surge in views is likely due to a combination of factors, including the continued popularity of Nirvana's music, the video's nostalgic value, and the ongoing interest in the band's legacy. As the video continues to accumulate views, it is likely that its trajectory will remain stable, with a steady increase in view counts over time.

Current momentum and view velocity

Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" music video has continued to attract a significant audience, as evident from its recent performance. Over the past 30 days, the video has gained approximately 15.6 million views, a substantial increase that suggests the video remains popular among viewers. This growth rate is substantial, particularly when considering the video's already impressive view count of 2.21 billion.

The average daily views for "Smells Like Teen Spirit" stand at around 520,366, a testament to the video's enduring appeal. This average daily view count indicates that the video continues to attract a substantial audience, with a significant number of viewers engaging with the content on a daily basis. The fact that the video has maintained this level of engagement for an extended period is a notable achievement, especially considering its age - the video is approximately 17.1 years old, having been published in June 2009.

While the video's current pace is impressive, it is worth examining whether it is still climbing or plateauing. The projected time to reach 3 billion views, based on the current view velocity, is approximately 1,512 days. This timeline suggests that the video is likely to continue gaining views at a steady rate, although the actual outcome may differ. It is also worth noting that the video's view count has already surpassed 2.21 billion, with a significant portion of its total views gained in the last few years. This indicates that the video's popularity has endured over time, with a dedicated audience continuing to engage with the content.

The estimated ad earnings for the video, approximately $12,489 per month, provide further insight into its commercial performance. This figure is based on an estimated RPM of $0.80 and suggests that the video remains a valuable asset for its owners. The video's continued popularity and the resulting ad revenue are a testament to its enduring appeal and the enduring legacy of Nirvana's music.

Global reach and where it resonates

The global reach of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" music video is a testament to the band's enduring influence and the timeless appeal of their music. With over 2.21 billion views, it is clear that this video has transcended geographical boundaries and cultural contexts. While we cannot pinpoint the exact regions where the video is most popular, we can make an informed inference based on its primary language and the channel's country of origin.

As the video is published in English (en-US), it is likely that it resonates most strongly in countries where English is the primary language or a widely spoken second language. This includes the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking nations. Furthermore, the fact that the channel is associated with NirvanaVEVO, which is likely to be based in the United States, suggests that the video's popularity may be particularly high in North America. It is worth noting, however, that the video's appeal is not limited to English-speaking countries, and its global reach suggests that it has a broader audience.

In countries where alternative rock and grunge music have a significant following, such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of Europe, the video is likely to be particularly popular. The song's themes of teenage angst, rebellion, and social disillusionment are likely to resonate with young people in these countries who are familiar with the genre. Additionally, the video's iconic status and its association with a pivotal moment in music history make it a cultural touchstone that continues to inspire and influence new generations of music fans.

While we cannot quantify the video's popularity in specific regions, it is clear that its global reach extends far beyond its country of origin. The video's estimated ad earnings of $12,489 per month suggest that it continues to attract a significant audience, and its projected view count of 3 billion views in approximately 1,512 days at the current pace underscores its enduring appeal. As a cultural artifact, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" continues to transcend borders and languages, speaking to a universal language of music and rebellion that knows no geographical boundaries.

Who is watching

The viewership of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" music video appears to span a wide age range, given the enduring popularity of the band's music among multiple generations. The video's placement within the music category, ranked #109 of 639, suggests a broad appeal to those interested in rock and alternative music. However, it is likely that the video's viewership is skewed towards younger audiences, given the genre's association with the 1990s grunge movement and the video's release on the NirvanaVEVO channel, which may attract a younger demographic.

The language used in the video, en-US, further supports the inference that the video's viewership is likely comprised of English-speaking audiences. This is consistent with the global reach of the internet and the widespread popularity of English-language music. The video's viewership may also include music enthusiasts and fans of the grunge genre, who continue to appreciate the band's influence on the music industry.

It is also worth noting that the video's average daily views of ~520,366, while substantial, are not indicative of a sudden surge in popularity. Rather, the video's consistent viewership over the years suggests a dedicated fan base that continues to engage with the content. The video's projected ad earnings of ~$12,489/month at the current pace, while not a direct measure of audience demographics, may also provide insight into the video's ongoing relevance and appeal to a specific audience.

The video's age of about 17.1 years since publication also speaks to its enduring influence on the music industry. The video's continued viewership and projected ad earnings suggest that it remains a relevant and engaging piece of content for a specific audience, likely comprised of music enthusiasts and fans of the grunge genre.

How it stacks up against its peers

In the music category, Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" ranks #109 out of 639 videos. This places it among the top 17% of music videos on the platform, indicating a strong performance in terms of views and engagement. However, this ranking also suggests that the video falls short of the very top performers in its category, which have garnered significantly more views and attention.

When compared to the broader field of billion-view videos, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" ranks #188 out of 1,029 videos. This is a respectable position, considering the vast number of videos that have achieved this milestone. However, it also indicates that the video is not among the most popular or enduring content on the platform, which has been viewed over 1 billion times. The top 100 billion-view videos, for example, tend to be iconic, culturally significant, and often feature well-known artists or franchises.

The fact that "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is ranked #188 among billion-view videos suggests that it is somewhat of an outlier in terms of its longevity and continued relevance. While it is possible that the video's performance will continue to grow, with a projected reach of 3 billion views in approximately 1,512 days at the current pace, it is also worth noting that the video's age - about 17.1 years since publication - may be a factor in its relatively lower ranking. Many of the top billion-view videos have been published in the past decade or so, and may have benefited from more recent trends and cultural relevance.

Overall, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" appears to be a significant and enduring video in the music category, but its ranking among billion-view videos suggests that it is not among the most exceptional or popular content on the platform. Nevertheless, its continued performance and projected growth indicate that it remains a notable and influential video in the music world.

The estimated economics of a billion-view video

The estimated ad earnings of the Nirvana music video "Smells Like Teen Spirit" provide a glimpse into the commercial viability of a billion-view video. According to the available data, the estimated monthly earnings of the video are approximately $12,489. This figure is based on an estimated RPM (revenue per thousand views) of $0.80. However, it is essential to note that actual ad earnings can vary significantly due to factors such as ad-share, region, and format. Ad-share refers to the percentage of ad revenue allocated to the content creator, which can differ between platforms and even between individual videos.

The RPM assumption of $0.80 is also subject to fluctuations. This figure may be influenced by the video's genre, target audience, and geographic reach. The music video's primary language is en-US, which likely contributes to its appeal in North America. The video's performance in other regions, where ad revenue models and audience preferences may differ, is not explicitly stated. As a result, the estimated ad earnings should be viewed with caution, as actual figures may be higher or lower than the projected $12,489 per month.

It is also worth noting that the estimated ad earnings are likely to be influenced by the video's format, which is an official music video. This format tends to attract a specific audience and may command a different ad revenue rate compared to other types of content. Furthermore, the ad revenue model used by YouTube and other platforms can be complex, involving multiple factors such as ad placement, viewer demographics, and ad format. As a result, the estimated ad earnings should be seen as a rough approximation rather than an exact figure.

In conclusion, while the estimated ad earnings of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" provide some insight into the commercial viability of a billion-view video, they should be viewed with caution due to the numerous factors that can influence actual ad revenue. The estimated monthly earnings of $12,489 and the assumed RPM of $0.80 are likely to be subject to fluctuations and may not accurately reflect the actual ad earnings of the video.

A billion views in perspective

A billion views in perspective. The sheer scale of this video's view count is a staggering reality that can be difficult to grasp. To put it into perspective, consider that Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" has been viewed over 2.21 billion times. This number is a testament to the enduring popularity of the song and the band, even years after their initial release. To break it down further, if we assume an average daily view count of around 520,366, as the data suggests, this means that the video has been viewed over 1.4 million times every day for the past 17.1 years.

To put this into an even more relatable frame, consider the hourly average. If we divide the average daily views by 24, we get an average of around 21,700 views per hour. This is equivalent to around 360 views per minute, or about 6 views per second. This staggering pace of views highlights the video's immense popularity and its continued relevance in the modern music landscape. The fact that it has been viewed over 2.21 billion times is a testament to the enduring power of Nirvana's music and the band's influence on popular culture.

The video's view count is also a reflection of its continued relevance in the music world. Even years after its initial release, the song remains a fan favorite and a staple of 90s alternative rock. The video's continued popularity is a testament to the band's influence and the enduring power of their music. It is likely that the video's continued success is due in part to its timeless appeal and the continued interest in Nirvana's music among new generations of fans.

The video's projected future view count is also worth noting. If the current pace of views continues, it is estimated that the video will reach 3 billion views in around 1,512 days. This is a staggering prospect, and one that highlights the video's continued popularity and relevance in the modern music landscape. The video's estimated ad earnings of around $12,489 per month are also a testament to its enduring popularity and the continued interest in Nirvana's music among fans.

The milestones it has passed and those ahead

The view count of Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit, the official music video, has been steadily climbing since its publication on June 16, 2009. It has long since crossed the significant milestone of one billion views, and has continued to rise, passing two billion views as well. This video, which is ranked #188 of all billion-view videos, has reached a total of 2,212,707,584 views, and it tends to appeal to a broad audience. As it stands, the video has also gained approximately 15,610,985 views in the last thirty days, with an average of about 520,366 views per day. The video's primary language is English, as indicated by the en-US designation, which may contribute to its widespread appeal.

The video's viewership can be seen as a numeric ladder, with each rung representing a new milestone achieved. It has already surpassed one billion, and then two billion views. To understand the significance of this progression, it's useful to consider the pace at which it's happening. With its current rate of growth, the video is projected to continue its ascent, and eventually reach three billion views. This next major milestone is anticipated to be achieved in about 1,512 days, based on the video's current viewing pace. It is likely that the video will maintain its steady viewership, given its ranking of #109 in the music category, out of 639 videos.

Given the video's consistent performance over its nearly seventeen-year history, it appears to have lasting appeal to its audience. While its age might be seen as a factor that could contribute to slowing viewership, the data does not support this, as the video continues to gain a substantial number of views every day. The projected time to reach three billion views suggests that this growth will persist. It's also worth noting that the video's estimated ad earnings of approximately $12,489 per month, based on an estimated revenue per thousand impressions of $0.80, provides further evidence of its continued popularity.

In terms of where it stands among other videos, Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit is part of a relatively exclusive group. Ranked #188 out of 1,029 billion-view videos, it is clear that this video has achieved a significant level of success. Its performance within the music category is also notable, with a ranking of #109 out of 639. This ranking may indicate that the video appeals to a specific segment of the audience, but its broad appeal is also likely a factor in its success. As the video continues to climb the numeric ladder of view count milestones, it will be interesting to see if its popularity continues to endure.

The video's current total of 2,212,707,584 views is a testament to its enduring popularity, and its projected growth suggests that it will continue to be a widely viewed video for some time to come. As a result, it tends to be an important part of the online music landscape, and its viewership is likely to remain strong. With its average daily views of around 520,366, the video is on track to reach new milestones and continue its steady ascent. The time it takes to reach these milestones will be a measure of its sustained appeal, and it appears that the video is likely to remain a popular choice for music fans.

Audience and regional-popularity statements are informed inferences from genre, language and channel origin, not measured demographics. Earnings are estimates.

Key takeaways

  • •Ranked #188 among all billion-view videos.
  • •Projected to reach 3 billion views in about 1,512 days.
  • •Average daily views are approximately 520,366.
  • •Estimated monthly earnings are about $12,489.

Did you know?

  • •The video has been gaining approximately 15.6 million views in the last 30 days.
  • •It is projected to reach 3 billion views in about 1,512 days if the current growth rate continues.
  • •The estimated ad earnings for this video are around $12,489 per month.

More about this video

Who it's for

This video likely appeals to a wide range of music enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate rock and alternative genres. It tends to attract viewers who have a nostalgic connection to the era of the 1990s grunge movement.

Where it's popular

The video is primarily popular in English-speaking countries, likely due to its language and the band's American origins. Its cultural impact resonates well with audiences familiar with the grunge genre.

Growth trajectory

The video is experiencing a steady growth rate, with around 520,366 views each day. At this pace, it is on track to reach 3 billion views in approximately 1,512 days.

Audience and region are informed inferences from genre, language and channel origin - not measured demographics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many views does Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video) have?

Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video) by NirvanaVEVO currently has 2,260,087,765 views on YouTube. It is ranked #193 among all 1069 videos in the YouTube Billion Views Club.

How many likes does Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video) have?

Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video) has 15,619,258 likes on YouTube, which gives it a like-to-view ratio of 0.69%.

When was Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video) published?

Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video) was published on June 16, 2009 by NirvanaVEVO.

What rank is this video among Music videos?

Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video) is ranked #110 among Music videos in the YouTube Billion Views Club with 2.26B views. See full Music ranking →

What is the view count of 'Smells Like Teen Spirit'?

'Smells Like Teen Spirit' has over 2.21 billion views, making it one of the most-watched music videos on YouTube.

When was the music video released?

The official music video for 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' was published on June 16, 2009.

What category does this video belong to?

'Smells Like Teen Spirit' falls under the Music category, where it is ranked #109 among 639 videos.

View Count History

Full timeline · 30 data points

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