Why Taylor Swift's 'Opalite' Video Isn't on YouTube Until February 8
If you’re looking for Taylor Swift‘s new “Opalite” music video on YouTube, you’re not going to find it there yet.
The singer’s new music video is premiering exclusively on Apple Music and Spotify Premium when it drops on Friday morning, February 6. You’ll be able to watch on YouTube beginning on Sunday, February 8, according to reports.
There’s a reason why Taylor likely is holding the video back from YouTube and it all has to do with the Billboard charts.
Keep reading to find out more…
YouTube streams no longer count for the Billboard chart.
The company said in a statement, “Billboard uses an outdated formula that weights subscription-supported streams higher than ad-supported. This doesn’t reflect how fans engage with music today and ignores the massive engagement from fans who don’t have a subscription. Streaming is the primary way people experience music, making up 84% of U.S. recorded music revenue. We’re simply asking that every stream is counted fairly and equally, whether it is subscription-based or ad-supported—because every fan matters and every play should count.”
“After a decade-long partnership and extensive discussions, they are unwilling to make meaningful changes. Therefore, after January 16, 2026, our data will no longer be delivered to Billboard or factored into their charts,” the statement added.
Views of the music video on Spotify and Apple Music will help the song reach a higher spot on the Billboard Hot 100!