The music industry is a dynamic landscape, and the recent announcement of the 1,000,000,000 List by APRA AMCOS highlights the incredible achievements of songwriters and publishers. This exclusive list recognizes songs that have surpassed one billion streams, a testament to the power of music and the dedication of these artists. Among the esteemed recipients are several Australian talents, including Sarah Aarons, Amy and George Sheppard, Sneaky Sound System's Connie Mitchell, Kota Banks, Taka Perry, and Stuart Crichton. These artists have not only achieved immense success but have also left an indelible mark on the global music scene.
Sarah Aarons, a Melbourne-raised hitmaker, has been making waves in the industry. Her breakup song "I Miss U, I’m Sorry," co-written with Gracie Abrams, has earned her two Billions Awards. Aarons' talent extends beyond this achievement, as she recently won the international recognition award at the 2026 APRA Music Awards for her collaborations with renowned artists like Tame Impala, BTS, Flume, Maren Morris, and ROSÉ. Her ability to connect with audiences worldwide is a testament to her skill and versatility.
The Sheppard siblings, Amy and George, along with co-writer Jay Bovino, received their first Billions Award for the song "Geronimo." This song's success is not limited to Australia; it cracked the Billboard Hot 100 in 2014, peaking at No. 53. The Sheppard's journey in the music industry is a remarkable one, having brought joy to fans for over a decade. George Sheppard's heartfelt words about their team's dedication and the dream of bringing joy to people resonate deeply.
Connie Mitchell, from Sneaky Sound System, is celebrated for her hip-hop song "Can’t Tell Me Nothing," co-written with DJ Toomp and Kanye West. The song's peak at No. 41 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2007 showcases its impact on the industry. Mitchell's collaboration with these industry giants is a testament to her talent and the power of collaboration.
Kota Banks and Taka Perry's work on KATSEYE's "TOUCH" is another notable achievement. Their collaboration with Blake Slatkin, Caroline Ailin, Magnus Holberg, and Omer Fedi has resulted in a song that has resonated with audiences. Perry's insight into the creative process behind "TOUCH" highlights the organic nature of music creation.
Stuart Crichton, a Los Angeles-based, Scottish songwriter and producer, completes the list with his contribution to Kygo's "Stargazing." Crichton's representation by Concord Music Publishing ANZ and his previous APRAs glory with "Tell Me" by Sonny Fodera and Clementine Douglas further solidify his impact on the industry. The Billions Award's recognition of streaming numbers from major platforms underscores the importance of digital distribution in the modern music landscape.
APRA AMCOS CEO Dean Ormston's statement emphasizes the significance of this achievement in the context of the music industry's evolution. The celebration of reaching one billion streams is not just about the numbers but also about the connection between artists and their global audiences. As the industry continues to evolve, with both human and AI-generated music, these awards serve as a reminder of the enduring power of songwriting and the dedication of those who bring music to life.
