Since its debut in 1958, the Billboard Hot 100 has been the ultimate barometer of musical success in the United States. Over the decades, more than 1,100 tracks have claimed the coveted #1 spot, reflecting changing tastes and the evolution of how we consume music. With such a vast pool of chart-toppers, narrowing down the absolute best is a daunting task. But we've taken on the challenge, celebrating the songs that not only dominated the charts but also left an indelible mark on pop culture.
Our list spans generations, from the haunting melodies of the early '60s to the synth-driven anthems of the modern era. While some decades are better represented than others—sorry, '90s fans, but the pop landscape then was a bit thin—these selections represent the pinnacle of chart-topping achievement. So, without further ado, here are the greatest #1 hits of all time, ranked.
10. "Runaway" – Del Shannon (1961)
There's an undeniable eeriness to Del Shannon's "Runaway," a quality that sets it apart from its contemporaries. The song's melancholic lyrics about loneliness and longing are amplified by a production that feels almost haunted. It's a track that was ahead of its time, blending pop with a darker, more atmospheric sound. While other early '60s classics like "Be My Baby" and "Stand by Me" narrowly missed the top spot, "Runaway" secured its place in history, and its influence can still be felt today.
9. "Say It Right" – Nelly Furtado (2006)
Nelly Furtado's Loose was a powerhouse album, yielding two #1 hits: the upbeat "Promiscuous" and the moodier "Say It Right." While "Promiscuous" was an instant party starter, "Say It Right" has aged even more gracefully. Its sultry, mid-tempo groove and introspective lyrics were a bold choice for a lead single, but it paid off, proving that Furtado could dominate the charts without sacrificing artistry. The track remains a standout in her discography and a highlight of 2000s pop.
8. "With or Without You" – U2 (1987)
U2's The Joshua Tree is a landmark album, and its opening trio of songs is legendary. "With or Without You" is the crown jewel, a soaring ballad that builds to an emotional crescendo. It's a song that captures the band at their most anthemic, and while it may not convert skeptics, for fans, it's pure magic. The track's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality.
7. "Come on Eileen" – Dexys Midnight Runners (1982)
In the U.S., Dexys Midnight Runners are often remembered as one-hit wonders, but what a hit! "Come on Eileen" is an infectious blend of Celtic folk and new wave that's impossible to resist. Its catchy fiddle riff and sing-along chorus have made it a staple at parties and weddings for decades. While the band had other successes in the UK, this track remains their crowning achievement, and it's easy to see why it topped the Billboard Hot 100.
6. "Blinding Lights" – The Weeknd (2019)
Released as a single in 2019 and featured on After Hours in 2020, "Blinding Lights" is a modern masterpiece that channels the best of '80s synth-pop. The Weeknd's soaring vocals and the song's driving beat made it an instant classic, breaking records for its longevity on the charts. It's a track that feels both nostalgic and fresh, and it's arguably the most iconic #1 hit of the past decade. For a deeper dive into the best of recent music, check out our boldest sci-fi epics list, but for now, this song is a testament to The Weeknd's artistry.
5. "Bridge over Troubled Water" – Simon & Garfunkel (1970)
It's remarkable that "Blinding Lights" and "Bridge over Troubled Water" can both be considered #1 hits, separated by half a century yet equally powerful. Simon & Garfunkel's masterpiece is a soaring, gospel-tinged ballad that has provided comfort to millions. Its message of unwavering support and its lush production have made it an enduring classic, and it remains one of the most beloved songs in music history.
4. "I Want to Hold Your Hand" – The Beatles (1964)
The Beatles' first #1 hit in the U.S. was a cultural earthquake. "I Want to Hold Your Hand" introduced the world to Beatlemania, and its infectious energy and catchy hooks changed the course of popular music. It's a song that captures the sheer joy of early rock 'n' roll, and its impact on the charts and beyond cannot be overstated.
3. "Billie Jean" – Michael Jackson (1983)
Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" is a masterclass in pop perfection. The iconic bassline, the crisp production, and Jackson's electrifying vocals make it a timeless classic. It's a song that transcends genres and generations, and its influence on music and dance is immeasurable. As one of the best-selling singles of all time, it's a deserving entry on this list.
2. "Bohemian Rhapsody" – Queen (1975)
Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" is a genre-defying epic that defies categorization. From its operatic middle section to its hard-rock finale, it's a song that has captivated listeners for decades. Its unconventional structure and theatrical flair made it a massive hit, and it remains a staple of classic rock radio. It's a testament to the band's creativity and ambition.
1. "Respect" – Aretha Franklin (1967)
Aretha Franklin's "Respect" is more than just a #1 hit; it's an anthem. Originally written and recorded by Otis Redding, Franklin's version transformed it into a powerful declaration of self-worth and empowerment. The song's iconic spelling of "R-E-S-P-E-C-T" and its soulful delivery made it an instant classic, and it has since become a symbol of the civil rights and feminist movements. It's a song that transcends music, and it's the greatest #1 hit of all time.
These ten songs represent the best of the best, but the Billboard Hot 100 has seen countless other gems. For more on the greatest hits in entertainment, check out our best American novels or flawless miniseries lists. And if you're a fan of the '90s, you might enjoy our '90s thrillers roundup.
