Category: Chart Toppers

“Duke of Earl” is a classic soul and doo-wop song that was recorded (and co-written) by Gene Chandler. The lyrics within feature a distinctive spoken introduction that creates a character of regal charm and confidence. It has been selected (by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame) as one of the “500 Songs that Shaped Rock & Roll”, and in 2002, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. On this very day, March 3rd 1962, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If…

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“Livin’ on a Prayer”, is an iconic 1980s song that was recorded by American rock band, Bon Jovi. The lyrics within tell the story of a working-class couple, Tommy and Gina, who are facing financial hardships, but find strength in their love for one another. Considered as the band’s signature hit, “Livin’ on a Prayer” topped fan-voted lists and continued re-charting around the world (many years after its original release). In January 2023, the song’s music video reached 1 billion views on YouTube, and is considered one of the greatest…

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“Tik Tok” is an energetic dance song that was recorded by American pop singer, Kesha. Released as her debut single (in 2009) it topped the charts in multiple countries and became one of the best-selling digital singles in music history. Certified eight times platinum (by the RIAA), the lyrics within revolve around having a good time and capturing the carefree spirit of youth. According to Kesha, the song’s lyrics are actually based on her daily life. On this very day, March 1st 2010, it was the #1 song in America,…

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Well, it’s the final day of February, and unfortunately it’s time to wrap up my tribute to BLACK HISTORY MONTH with an American R&B singer, mononymously known as Joe. The lyrics within refer to Joe’s girlfriend, who he confronts after she comes home late one night. When she begins to stumble over her words, suspicions arise about her having an affair. The song’s success helped solidify Joe’s status (as an R&B artist) and remains one of his most well-known songs. On this very day, February 28th 2001, it was the…

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It’s Day 27 of my tribute to BLACK HISTORY MONTH featuring a song that was recorded by American R&B singer, Monica. A soulful and romantic ballad, the lyrics within convey feelings of gratitude for having found that special someone. It was warmly received by Chuck Taylor of Billboard magazine, who called the song “unbelievable” and “absolutely stunning”. On this very day, February 27th 1999, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to have a listen, please feel free to use the provided link. Observing Black…

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Welcome to Day 26 of BLACK HISTORY MONTH featuring today’s emotional ballad, “One Sweet Day”. Recorded by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men, the lyrics within revolve around losing a loved one (with the hope of being reunited one special day in heaven). In a readers’ poll (conducted by Rolling Stone magazine), this song was ranked first overall in the category of “Best Collaborations of All Time”. In September 1997, this heartfelt track was performed at Princess Diana‘s memorial service. On this very day, February 26th 1996, it was the #1 song…

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As I continue my spotlight on BLACK HISTORY MONTH, today’s song choice, “How Will I Know”, was recorded by the late, great, Whitney Houston. An upbeat and catchy dance-pop track, the lyrics within express the uncertainty and anticipation of romantic feelings. Aside from the song’s massive chart success, its colourful music video won the award for “Best Female Video” at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards show. On this very day, February 25th 1986, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to…

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH continues with a classic ballad that was recorded by legendary R&B singer, Roberta Flack. This ballad tells the story of a woman who’s deeply moved by a song that seems to reflect her own experiences and emotions. Often regarded as one of the greatest vocal performances in the history of popular music, this song won two Grammy Awards for “Record of the Year” and “Best Female Pop Vocal Performance”. On this very day, February 24th 1973, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100…

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It’s Day 23 of our spotlight on BLACK HISTORY MONTH, and today’s song choice comes to us from the American hip-hop duo known as OutKast. In 2002, this track won the award for “Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group” (at the 44th Annual Grammy Awards). It also won the BET Award for “Video of the Year” and the MTV Video Music Award for “Best Hip-Hop Video”. On this very day, February 23rd 2001, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like…

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It’s Day 22 of BLACK HISTORY MONTH, featuring the song, “God’s Plan”, which was recorded by Canadian rapper, Drake. Topping the charts in multiple countries, this urban track broke first day streaming records on both, Apple Music and Spotify. The lyrics within reflect Drake’s gratitude for all his success and (express the idea that his achievements are all part of a greater plan). In 2019, it received three Grammy nominations for “Record of the Year”, “Song of the Year”, and “Best Rap Song”, winning the latter. On this very day,…

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Let’s continue BLACK HISTORY MONTH with a classic R&B ballad performed (as a duet) by Patti Austin and James Ingram. Written by Rod Temperton, “Baby, Come to Me” is a smooth and romantic ballad that showcases the vocal chemistry between these two incredible singers. Several months after its release, American soap opera, General Hospital began to heavily feature this track as the love theme for character, Luke Spencer. It’s chart success eventually led to Austin and Ingram both receiving Grammy nominations. On this very day, February 21st 1983, it was the #1 song in…

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Let’s continue our spotlight on BLACK HISTORY MONTH with a song that was co-written by Ne-Yo and recorded by Beyoncé. The lyrics within convey a message of independence and female empowerment, as the singer addresses a partner who’s been unfaithful. This song won several accolades, including “Best R&B/Soul Single” at the 2007 Soul Train Music Awards. It was also grammy nominated for “Record of the Year” in 2008. Reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries, it has become one of Beyoncé’s signature songs and remains a popular and…

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Continuing my spotlight on BLACK HISTORY MONTH, the song, “Gonna Make You Sweat” was recorded by New York based singing group, C&C Music Factory. Known for its energetic and infectious beat, it is often associated with the early 1990s dance and hip-hop music era. This song features a powerful vocal performance by singer, Martha Wash, alongside some smooth lyrical rapping by Freedom Williams. Topping the charts in multiple countries around the world, it became a dance anthem of its time. On this very day, February 19th 1991, it was the…

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Welcome to Day 18 of BLACK HISTORY MONTH, featuring some of the greatest songs ever released by black artists. Today’s song, “Everyday People”, was recorded by early funk sensation, Sly and the Family Stone. The lyrics within convey a message of unity and acceptance, promoting the idea that (despite our differences) people should come together and treat each other with love and respect. The song addresses issues of race, class, and individuality (emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity). On this very day, February 18th 1969, it was the #1 song…

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As we continue to celebrate Black History month, let’s get to today’s festive track that was recorded by American funk band, Kool & the Gang. Considered as one of their signature hits, the lyrics within express a message of joy and happiness (encouraging people to come together and share some good times). Over the years, this track has remained a timeless feel-good classic, and in 2016, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. On this very day, February 17th 1981, it was the #1 song in America, topping…

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