The number one song of all time, based on its cumulative performance on the Billboard Hot 100 chart from 1958 to 2021, is "Blinding Lights" by The Weeknd.
This prestigious distinction is derived from a sophisticated inverse point system utilized by Billboard to rank songs based on their sustained success and longevity on the chart. Songs accumulate points throughout their chart run, with higher positions and longer durations yielding more points, ultimately determining their standing in the chart's historical rankings.
Here are the top-ranked songs reflecting their unparalleled success on the Billboard Hot 100:
| Rank | Single | Artist(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Blinding Lights" | The Weeknd |
| 2. | "The Twist" | Chubby Checker |
| 3. | "Smooth" | Santana featuring Rob Thomas |
| 4. | "Mack the Knife" | Bobby Darin |
The Billboard Hot 100 chart has served as the definitive measure of popular music success in the United States since its inception in 1958. It aggregates data from various sources, including sales, radio airplay, and streaming, to provide a comprehensive snapshot of a song's popularity. While "Blinding Lights" has earned its top spot through consistent, long-term performance, other classics like Chubby Checker's "The Twist" have also achieved monumental success, becoming cultural touchstones and enjoying multiple chart runs. This historical ranking provides insight into the enduring impact and widespread appeal of these remarkable musical achievements.
For a comprehensive overview of the Billboard Hot 100 chart's achievements and milestones, you can explore its detailed historical data.
