Category: Chart Toppers

The song, “Venus”, is a soft ballad that was recorded (in the late 1950s) by American singer, Frankie Avalon. It’s unique sound reflects the pop and doo-wop styles of the era (with lyrics that express admiration and affection for a love interest). Considered his most successful single, this classic also reached the Top 10 on America’s R&B chart. On this very day, March 9th 1959, 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…

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“In Da Club” is an early 2000s hip-hop song that was recorded by American rapper, 50 Cent. Produced by Dr. Dre, it became a major commercial hit, with lyrics that celebrate success, partying, and the good life. It’s music video won awards for “Best Rap Video” and “Best New Artist” at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards show. On February 13th 2022, 50 Cent performed the song during the Super Bowl 56 half-time show. On this very day, March 8th 2003, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s…

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The song “To Be with You” is an early nineties ballad that was recorded by American rock band, Mr. Big. Written by lead singer, Eric Martin, it’s strongly characterized by its acoustic guitar-driven sound and heartfelt lyrics. It was Mr. Big’s most successful single, topping the charts in many countries, including Canada, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, and of course, the U.S.. On this very day, March 7th 1992, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. If you’d like to have a listen, please feel free…

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Written by Freddie Mercury (as a tribute to Elvis Presley), “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” is a song that was recorded by British rock band, Queen. It’s particularly notable for its rockabilly style which is quite a departure from the band’s usual sound. Upon its release, it became a massive hit, topping the charts in several countries, including the U.K. On July 13th 1985, Queen performed the song for the Live Aid benefit concert (at Wembley Stadium in London, England). On this very day, March 6th 1980, it was the…

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“Ruby Tuesday” is a song (from the late 1960s) that was recorded by English rock band, the Rolling Stones. Co-written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, it’s known for its distinctive, melancholic melody and reflective lyrics. Ironically, this song was originally released as the “B Side” to “Let’s Spend the Night Together”. However, due to the controversial nature of the “A Side”, “Ruby Tuesday” earned more airplay and ended up charting higher”. On this very day, March 5th 1967, it was the #1 song in America, topping Billboard’s Hot 100…

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The song “Jump” is a popular 1980s hi-energy anthem that was recorded by American rock band, Van Halen. It’s particularly known for its catchykeyboardriff (played by Eddie Van Halen) which was a departure from the band’s traditional guitar-driven sound. It was Van Halen’s only #1 single in the U.S., and is considered by many to be their signature hit. In 2021, Rolling Stone magazine ranked it at #177 on its updated list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All-Time”. On this very day, March 4th 1984, it was the #1…

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“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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