Global celebrates radio and podcasts at new awards

Global has unveiled the winners of its first Global Player Awards this year, recognising the artists and podcasters most listened to across its radio network and Global Player.

The awards are based solely on listening data from Global’s platforms, and

A new category, the Two Billion Listens Award, has been introduced to acknowledge artists who achieved more than two billion listens across Global stations and on Global Player.

Ed Sheeran, Teddy Swims and Myles Smith all reached the benchmark.

Ed Sheeran thanked listeners for helping him surpass the total, saying he was grateful for the support shown during his career. Teddy Swims also expressed thanks to fans, while Myles Smith highlighted the contribution of both audiences and Global’s radio teams.

Global’s brands have also named their biggest breakthrough acts. Capital recognises Alex Warren, while Capital XTRA awards MOLIY. Radio X’s breakthrough winner is Sombr and Capital Dance names Chrystal.

MOLIY said she was thankful to listeners and supporters of her music and looked ahead to next year.

Elton John receives the Global Player Awards Legend title, marking more than two decades of continued influence and sustained listening across Global’s stations. Elton thanked Global and the generations of fans who continue to enjoy his music.

Post Malone and Morgan Wallen’s track I Had Some Help is named the most listened to song on Global Player this year.

In podcasting, Christiane Amanpour Presents: The Ex Files with Jamie Rubin is named Biggest New Podcast, with Christiane thanking listeners for their support. The News Agents is confirmed as the most listened to podcast on Global Player and takes Best Podcast Show.

Ashley Tabor-King says the awards reflect what audiences choose to listen to, and congratulated Ed, Myles and Teddy on reaching two billion listens.

The company previous ran the Global Awards from 2018 to 2024.