The charts on this page and subsequent pages are based on the public record of Billboard’s Hot 100 Number One Singles. We have compiled these lists from 1958 till current. We will soon add these charts as playlists on the Spotify Playlists Page for your enjoyment. But first, here is a brief history of the Billboard Hot 100 Chart.
History of the Billboard Hot 100
The Billboard Hot 100 is a weekly music chart published by Billboard magazine in the United States. It ranks the most popular songs across various genres based on their performance in terms of sales, streaming, and radio airplay. The chart is widely recognized as a significant indicator of the most successful and influential songs in the country.
The Billboard Hot 100 takes into account several factors to determine a song’s position on the chart. These factors include digital downloads, physical sales, streaming metrics, and radio airplay. The data is collected by Nielsen SoundScan and Nielsen Broadcast Data Systems, which monitor sales and radio airplay respectively.
The chart rankings are based on a combination of these metrics, with a greater emphasis on streaming and sales in recent years due to the rise of digital platforms. Each week, Billboard updates the chart rankings and releases the results, providing a snapshot of the most popular songs at that time.
The Billboard Hot 100 has a long history, dating back to August 1958. Over the years, it has showcased a diverse range of musical genres and artists, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of popular music. Many artists and songs have achieved significant success and recognition through their inclusion on the Hot 100 chart.
In addition to the overall chart, Billboard also provides various sub charts and genre-specific charts that cater to different music styles. These include charts for specific genres like rock, country, hip-hop, R&B, and more, allowing for a comprehensive overview of the music industry’s current trends and popularity.