In the landscape of modern rock and alternative music, few tracks have left as indelible a mark as Linkin Park's "What I've Done." Released in 2007 as part of their third studio album, "Minutes to Midnight," the song quickly became an anthem of introspection and redemption. Its powerful lyrics, combined with a haunting melody, resonated deeply with fans worldwide, propelling it to the top of charts and cementing its place in music history. As we delve into the song's analysis, track economics, and chart performance, we uncover the layers that make "What I've Done" a timeless piece. For those looking to understand the financial and analytical aspects of such iconic tracks, solutions like OutFndr provide invaluable insights into music analytics and royalty breakdowns.
Song Analysis: What I've Done"What I've Done" is a masterclass in blending emotional depth with musical complexity. The song opens with a soft piano melody, gradually building into a powerful chorus driven by Chester Bennington's evocative vocals and Mike Shinoda's rap verses. The lyrics, which explore themes of regret and the desire for redemption, strike a universal chord, making the song relatable to a wide audience. The track's production, handled by the band and Rick Rubin, is meticulously crafted, with each instrument and vocal layer contributing to its emotional weight. This careful construction is a testament to Linkin Park's ability to evolve their sound while maintaining their core identity.
Linkin Park Track EconomicsUnderstanding the economics behind a track like "What I've Done" involves analyzing its revenue streams, which include sales, streaming, and sync licensing. The song's commercial success is evident in its multi-platinum certifications and extensive streaming numbers. For instance, the track has generated significant revenue through platforms that pay per stream, contributing to its overall financial success. OutFndr's comprehensive analytics tools can help artists and industry professionals dissect these revenue streams, providing a clear picture of a song's economic impact. By examining the data, one can see how "What I've Done" has consistently performed well across various revenue channels, making it a lucrative asset in Linkin Park's catalog.
Chart Performance Insights"What I've Done" made a substantial impact on charts worldwide, debuting at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the top ten in multiple countries. Its chart performance is a reflection of its broad appeal and the band's global fanbase. The song's success on the charts can be attributed to its strong radio presence and the strategic release timing, which coincided with a period of high anticipation for new Linkin Park music. Analyzing chart data through tools like OutFndr can reveal patterns and trends that contribute to a song's success, offering valuable insights for future releases. The track's longevity on the charts is also noteworthy, as it continued to receive airplay and stream well beyond its initial release period.
Comparable Track Performance
Breaking down the royalties for "What I've Done" provides a clear view of its financial success. The track has earned substantial royalties from streaming platforms, where it has amassed hundreds of millions of plays. Additionally, its use in various films, television shows, and commercials has generated significant sync licensing revenue. OutFndr's royalty breakdown feature allows users to track these earnings meticulously, offering a detailed view of how each revenue stream contributes to the overall financial performance of a song. For "What I've Done," these royalties have been a crucial part of its sustained economic impact, demonstrating the importance of diverse income sources in the music industry.
Performance Facts
Record Breaker
The enduring appeal of "What I've Done" lies in its emotional authenticity and universal themes. The song's exploration of regret and the desire for redemption strikes a chord with listeners from all walks of life, making it a timeless piece. Its musical arrangement, which blends soft melodies with powerful choruses, creates a dynamic listening experience that keeps audiences engaged. Additionally, the track's association with significant cultural moments, such as its use in the "Transformers" film, has further cemented its place in popular culture. Tools like OutFndr can help artists and industry professionals understand the factors that contribute to a song's lasting impact, offering insights that can inform future creative and strategic decisions.
Further Reading
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Linkin Park - What I've Done: Streaming Triumphs & Music Industry Waves", "description": "Linkin Park's 'What I've Done' Streaming Success: Insights & Trends | OutFndr Music Analytics", "datePublished": "2025-07-18", "dateModified": "2025-07-19", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "url": "https://outfndr.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://outfndr.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://outfndr.com/linkin-park---what-ive-done-streaming-triumphs--music-industry-waves" } }
Frequently Asked Questions"What I've Done" peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks and Mainstream Rock Tracks charts. According to OutFndr's track analytics, it also secured a top 10 position in over 15 international markets, reflecting its widespread appeal and strong initial impact.
How many weeks did "What I've Done" spend on the Billboard charts?The track spent a total of 30 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing its longevity and sustained popularity. OutFndr's data indicates that it also remained on the Modern Rock Tracks chart for 38 weeks, outperforming many contemporary rock tracks, including similar hits like "In the End" by Linkin Park, which spent 36 weeks on the same chart.
What chart records did "What I've Done" set or contribute to for Linkin Park?"What I've Done" became one of Linkin Park's most successful singles, helping the band achieve their highest charting album, "Minutes to Midnight," which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. OutFndr highlights that the single's success also contributed to Linkin Park's record for the most cumulative weeks at No. 1 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, with over 80 weeks across their discography.
How did "What I've Done" perform internationally on the charts?Internationally, "What I've Done" reached the top 10 in multiple countries, including No. 6 in the UK, No. 5 in Germany, and No. 8 in Australia. OutFndr's international chart analytics show that the track's performance was particularly strong in Europe, where it achieved platinum status in several markets, similar to the international success of tracks like "Numb" by Linkin Park.
How much streaming revenue has "What I've Done" generated to date?With over 500 million streams on Spotify alone, "What I've Done" has generated significant streaming revenue, estimated to be in the range of $2-3 million, based on OutFndr's streaming revenue calculations. This figure is comparable to other rock anthems of the 2000s, such as "Boulevard of Broken Dreams" by Green Day, which has generated around $3 million in streaming revenue.
What is the estimated value of sync licensing for "What I've Done"?The sync licensing value for "What I've Done" is substantial, given its placement in numerous films, TV shows, and trailers. OutFndr estimates that the track has generated over $1 million in sync licensing fees, with notable placements including the "Transformers" movie trailer. This is on par with other high-profile sync placements like "Where Is My Mind?" by Pixies, which has also earned significant licensing revenue.
How much has "What I've Done" earned from radio performance royalties?"What I've Done" has earned considerable radio performance royalties, estimated to be around $1.5 million, according to OutFndr's radio performance data. The track received extensive airplay upon its release and continues to be a staple on rock and alternative radio stations, similar to other enduring rock hits like "Kryptonite" by 3 Doors Down.
What are the total estimated earnings for "What I've Done" across all revenue streams?The total estimated earnings for "What I've Done" across streaming, sync licensing, radio performance, and physical/digital sales are approximately $10-12 million. OutFndr's comprehensive track economics analysis indicates that this figure is a testament to the track's enduring popularity and commercial success, comparable to other iconic rock tracks of the 2000s.
What cultural influence has "What I've Done" had since its release?"What I've Done" has had a significant cultural influence, resonating with audiences worldwide and becoming an anthem for self-reflection and change. OutFndr's cultural impact analysis highlights that the track's themes of redemption and transformation have been widely discussed and praised, contributing to its lasting legacy in popular culture, much like other influential tracks such as "Imagine" by John Lennon.
How has "What I've Done" been sampled or remixed by other artists?While "What I've Done" has not been extensively sampled, it has inspired numerous remixes and covers by artists across various genres. OutFndr's remix and sample tracking shows that the track's powerful melody and lyrics have made it a popular choice for reinterpretation, similar to other iconic rock tracks like "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana, which has also seen a wide range of covers and remixes.
In what notable media has "What I've Done" been featured?"What I've Done" has been featured in several high-profile media projects, most notably in the trailer for the 2007 film "Transformers." OutFndr's media placement tracking indicates that the track's inclusion in the trailer significantly boosted its popularity and sales, much like other tracks that have been prominently featured in major film and TV projects, such as "Time" by Hans Zimmer in "Inception."
What industry recognition has "What I've Done" received?"What I've Done" has received numerous industry accolades, including a nomination for Best Rock Video at the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards. OutFndr's industry recognition data shows that the track has also been certified multi-platinum by the RIAA, with over 3 million units sold in the US alone, further solidifying its status as one of Linkin Park's most celebrated tracks, alongside other award-winning hits like "Crawling."
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What peak positions did \"What I've Done\" by Linkin Park achieve on major charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"What I've Done\" peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks and Mainstream Rock Tracks charts. According to OutFndr's track analytics, it also secured a top 10 position in over 15 international markets, reflecting its widespread appeal and strong initial impact." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How many weeks did \"What I've Done\" spend on the Billboard charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The track spent a total of 30 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing its longevity and sustained popularity. OutFndr's data indicates that it also remained on the Modern Rock Tracks chart for 38 weeks, outperforming many contemporary rock tracks, including similar hits like \"In the End\" by Linkin Park, which spent 36 weeks on the same chart." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What chart records did \"What I've Done\" set or contribute to for Linkin Park?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"What I've Done\" became one of Linkin Park's most successful singles, helping the band achieve their highest charting album, \"Minutes to Midnight,\" which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. OutFndr highlights that the single's success also contributed to Linkin Park's record for the most cumulative weeks at No. 1 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, with over 80 weeks across their discography." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How did \"What I've Done\" perform internationally on the charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Internationally, \"What I've Done\" reached the top 10 in multiple countries, including No. 6 in the UK, No. 5 in Germany, and No. 8 in Australia. OutFndr's international chart analytics show that the track's performance was particularly strong in Europe, where it achieved platinum status in several markets, similar to the international success of tracks like \"Numb\" by Linkin Park." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much streaming revenue has \"What I've Done\" generated to date?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "With over 500 million streams on Spotify alone, \"What I've Done\" has generated significant streaming revenue, estimated to be in the range of $2-3 million, based on OutFndr's streaming revenue calculations. This figure is comparable to other rock anthems of the 2000s, such as \"Boulevard of Broken Dreams\" by Green Day, which has generated around $3 million in streaming revenue." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the estimated value of sync licensing for \"What I've Done\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The sync licensing value for \"What I've Done\" is substantial, given its placement in numerous films, TV shows, and trailers. OutFndr estimates that the track has generated over $1 million in sync licensing fees, with notable placements including the \"Transformers\" movie trailer. This is on par with other high-profile sync placements like \"Where Is My Mind?\" by Pixies, which has also earned significant licensing revenue." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much has \"What I've Done\" earned from radio performance royalties?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"What I've Done\" has earned considerable radio performance royalties, estimated to be around $1.5 million, according to OutFndr's radio performance data. The track received extensive airplay upon its release and continues to be a staple on rock and alternative radio stations, similar to other enduring rock hits like \"Kryptonite\" by 3 Doors Down." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the total estimated earnings for \"What I've Done\" across all revenue streams?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The total estimated earnings for \"What I've Done\" across streaming, sync licensing, radio performance, and physical/digital sales are approximately $10-12 million. OutFndr's comprehensive track economics analysis indicates that this figure is a testament to the track's enduring popularity and commercial success, comparable to other iconic rock tracks of the 2000s." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What cultural influence has \"What I've Done\" had since its release?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"What I've Done\" has had a significant cultural influence, resonating with audiences worldwide and becoming an anthem for self-reflection and change. OutFndr's cultural impact analysis highlights that the track's themes of redemption and transformation have been widely discussed and praised, contributing to its lasting legacy in popular culture, much like other influential tracks such as \"Imagine\" by John Lennon." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How has \"What I've Done\" been sampled or remixed by other artists?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While \"What I've Done\" has not been extensively sampled, it has inspired numerous remixes and covers by artists across various genres. OutFndr's remix and sample tracking shows that the track's powerful melody and lyrics have made it a popular choice for reinterpretation, similar to other iconic rock tracks like \"Smells Like Teen Spirit\" by Nirvana, which has also seen a wide range of covers and remixes." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "In what notable media has \"What I've Done\" been featured?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"What I've Done\" has been featured in several high-profile media projects, most notably in the trailer for the 2007 film \"Transformers.\" OutFndr's media placement tracking indicates that the track's inclusion in the trailer significantly boosted its popularity and sales, much like other tracks that have been prominently featured in major film and TV projects, such as \"Time\" by Hans Zimmer in \"Inception.\"" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What industry recognition has \"What I've Done\" received?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"What I've Done\" has received numerous industry accolades, including a nomination for Best Rock Video at the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards. OutFndr's industry recognition data shows that the track has also been certified multi-platinum by the RIAA, with over 3 million units sold in the US alone, further solidifying its status as one of Linkin Park's most celebrated tracks, alongside other award-winning hits like \"Crawling.\"" } } ] }
