Black Eyed Peas Hit Mega Milestone: 'Pump It' Soars Past 1 Billion YouTube Views!
The Black Eyed Peas' 2005 hit “Pump It” has achieved a major milestone by joining YouTube's Billion Views Club, becoming the group's fourth video to do so. The article explores the song's history, from its sampling origins and chart success to its iconic music video and remixes. It also details the recent reunion of the classic lineup, including Fergie, at the American Music Awards, following her departure in 2018.
The Black Eyed Peas’ hit single “Pump It,” originally released in 2005, has officially entered YouTube‘s prestigious Billion Views Club, more than two decades after its debut. This marks a significant milestone for the group, as it becomes their fourth music video to achieve this feat. The other Black Eyed Peas videos that have surpassed a billion views include “Where Is the Love?,” “RITMO” (their collaboration with J Balvin for the Bad Boys for Life soundtrack), and “My Humps,” which reached the threshold in July.
“Pump It” is famously known for its energetic sampling of Dick Dale’s iconic 1962 rendition of “Misirlou.” The track was featured on the group’s album, Monkey Business, released via A&M/Interscope, which debuted impressively at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. The album’s ascent to the top spot was only hindered by Coldplay’s concurrent release, X&Y. On the Billboard Hot 100, “Pump It” solidified its success by peaking at No. 18, making it the group’s fourth consecutive top 20 single.
The hip-hop ensemble brought the high-energy track to an even larger audience in 2011 when they performed “Pump It” along with other hits during their Super Bowl halftime show. The music video, which contributed significantly to its popularity, was filmed in Los Angeles and notably featured a customized Honda Civic Hybrid adorned with Black Eyed Peas graphics. This distinctive car was later presented as a prize during the 2006 Honda Civic Tour.
The song has enjoyed multiple iterations throughout its lifespan, extending its reach and appeal. A remix titled “Pump It Harder” was included in the deluxe edition of their fifth studio album, The E.N.D. (released in 2009), which itself topped the Billboard 200. More recently, in 2022, Dutch DJ and producer Tiësto released a high-energy EDM version called “Pump It Louder,” featured on his studio album Drive.
The Black Eyed Peas experienced a significant shift in their lineup in 2018 when Fergie departed the group to focus on solo projects and motherhood. Despite her exit, which was described as amicable, the Black Eyed Peas continued to release new music and tour as a trio. Their most recent album, Elevation, was released in 2022, showcasing their evolving sound.
In December 2024, Fergie hinted at a potential happy reunion when she shared photos on Instagram, showing herself alongside will.i.am, Taboo, and Apl.de.Ap as they gathered to celebrate their milestone birthdays. This anticipation culminated in May of this year, when the classic lineup publicly reunited onstage for a surprise appearance at the American Music Awards held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The iconic quartet accepted the best throwback song award for “Rock That Body,” much to the delight of their fans.