The Hit Momentum Newsletter: January 5, 2026

Evaluating Streaming Data for Pop Music Programmers

New year, (slightly) new name. Has radio made fans of “Golden” beyond the Demon Hunters’ universe? Plus, three old songs from three different decades that TikTok has resurrected from obscurity.

Here are resources to get you ready to use The Hit Momentum Newsletter:

• Quick Use Guide: You just want to know how to read and implement the report ASAP

• Complete Guide: Here, you’ll learn in detail what the report shows you and why behind our recommendations on how to use it.

First, the new year brings a slightly new name—The Hit Momentum Newsletter. Two reasons for this admittedly pedantic change:

First, it emphasizes my goal of providing you commentary and context about the songs with the greatest streaming Momentum, so you can stay on top of new music trends and make educated decisions about which songs would delight your audience. A good newsletter brings you up to speed quickly.

Second, I’d like to avoid confusion with Your Hit Momentum Report, my customized service for radio stations that works like callout, but which analyzes actual listening from every major streaming platform instead of polling paid research panelists.