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10 Former Disney Channel Stars Turned Singers, Ranked by Spotify Streams
2023/08/01

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Shane Harper

"Like I Did" – 8.16 million streams

Playing series regular Spencer on Good Luck Charlie, Shane's character was initially quite popular until he cheated on Teddy with Spencer. It did take a while, but many fans found him redeemed by the end of the series as he makes it up to – and eventually ends up with - the protagonist, Teddy Duncan.

Shane's talent was on full display on the show a handful of times, along with Bridget Mendler who played Teddy. He has since taken his music to other platforms for fans of Spencer and Shane alike to enjoy. His hit song "Like I Did," currently sits with over 8.

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16 million streams on Spotify.

Hayley Kiyoko

"Girls Like Girls" – 117 million streams

Hayley is a Disney channel alum who keeps growing in popularity as the years go by. From playing the scorned wizard Stevie in Wizards of Waverly Place tostarring as the empowering Stella in Lemonade Mouth – Hayley has come a long way.

Hayley's music has become a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community, with her works incorporating sexuality and romance in a genuine, raw, and appreciative way. Her hit single "Girls Like Girls" currently sits at over 117 million streams on Spotify and continues to change the lives of many who identify with her music.

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Bridgit Mendler

"Ready or Not" – 201 million streams

Bridgit Mendler rose to fame with her role as Teddy Duncan in Good Luck Charlie, one of the best Disney Channel TV shows. Serving as the series' protagonist, there were plenty of instances where Bridgit got to showcase her vocals skills on the hit show, along with her playing the lead singer in the Disney Channel hit film, Lemonade Mouth.

Bridget's skill was further explored in her solo releases, one of which was constantly replayed on Disney Channel due to its catchy tune and charming lyrics: "Ready or Not." The song is still a hit, with over 201 million fans still streaming it on Spotify.

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Dove Cameron

"Boyfriend" – 253 million streams

Today, Dove Cameron has become a household name for Disney Channel fans and music lovers alike. Her exceptional vocals and talent were shown in her hit tv show, Liv and Maddie, and her Liv Rooney is still regarded as one of the best Disney Channel characters. Dove also stars in the music-filled Disney film series, Descendants.

Her post-Disney music has received even more fame, with "We Belong" being featured in the After We Collidedtrailer, and her recent release, "Boyfriend" currently having over 253 million Spotify streams. Her current music's themes of female empowerment and sexuality make her a popular favorite, especially on TikTok.

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Nick Jonas

"Close" – 483 million streams

Although the Jonas Brothers had already acquired some fame before starring on Disney, their presence in Camp Rock - one of the best Disney Channel original movies ever - and Jonas skyrocketed their popularity even further. Both the films and their series utilized their impressive vocals and musical talent, turning them into some of the most successful Disney alums.

Building off this reputation, Nick pursued solo musical endeavors outside of the band as well, which proved to be quite profitable. And his year hit "Close" has over 483 million streams on Spotify to prove it.

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Sabrina Carpenter

"On My Way" – 483 million streams

Sabrina starred as the best friend Maya in the Disney spin-off series, Girl Meets World. Despite not being the lead, she charmed audiences with her performance and later paved a path for very successful music and acting careers after her Disney years.

Her music touches on mature themes like romance, heartbreak, and living in the limelight, and fans appreciate her creative take on these topics. Her song, "On My Way," epitomizes her skill as a singer and currently sits at over 483 million Spotify streams.

Miley Cyrus

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"Party in the U.S.A." – 969 million streams

One of Disney Channel's most unforgettable alums is Hannah Montana star, Miley Cyrus. Given the fact that her entire series revolved around being a pop star with immense talent, the transition from Disney alum to powerhouse singer seemed almost inevitable.

Miley's fans find themselves gravitating to her new releases for the music, and her old ones for the nostalgia. Perhaps the greatest testament to her success is the fact that "Party in the USA" – which was released in 2009, well before Spotify's climb to music app dominance - currently sits at over 969 million streams.

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Demi Lovato

"Sorry Not Sorry" – 1 billion streams

Demi Lovato had a very public and extensive career with Disney. From DCOM's like Camp Rock and Princess Protection Program to their own series, Sonny with a Chance, Demi proved themselves to be one of the most versatile and talented Disney stars.

They've also had an incredibly successful musical career outside of Disney, with "Sorry Not Sorry" currently sitting at over 1 billion streams. Their music not only consists of unforgettable bops, but they also use it as a channel to discuss their own struggles and start important conversations.

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Selena Gomez

"Taki Taki" – 1.3 billion stream

Wizards of Waverly Place is often regarded by fans as one of the best shows to come from the Disney Channel, and a large part of its popularity can be attributed to the actor who played the rebellious and inspiring Alex Russo: Selena Gomez.

Beyond Disney, Selena has found huge success with acting – currently starring in Only Murder in the Building – and music. Her songs range from heartbreaking ballads, like "Lose You to Love Me" to features on party hits, such as "Taki Taki" which currently has over 1.3 billion streams.

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Olivia Rodrigo

High School Musical, The Musical: The Series' breakout star Olivia Rodrigo made waves last year when she released her debut album, Sour. Olivia had already accrued much acclaim and praise for her performance as Nini in the Disney spin-off series; with ample opportunities to showcase her vocal skills along with her acting talent, Rodrigo garnered a dedicated fan base well before her Grammy-winning release.

Her hit single "good 4 u" currently sits at 1.5 billion streams, indicating a very promising career for the young star well beyond Disney.

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