Some artists’ impact on the greater public and music scene is so great that it surpasses the importance of chart rankings and No. 1 hits. In other words, the quality of the work resides in the reactions, not the rankings. There have been a number of acclaimed musicians who fall into this category. Nonetheless, when you quickly flip through their catalog of songs, you are still left asking yourself: How is their chart success not greater?
Videos by American Songwriter
Again, No. 1 hits are far from the most important thing in regard to creating long-lasting and impactful music. However, great musicians deserve at least one, and these three acts surely deserve more than they have. With that in mind, here are three 21st-century musical acts you think would have more No. 1 hits or at least just one.
Coldplay
Coldplay is currently one of the most popular bands in the world. Scratch that, they have been one of the most popular bands in the world ever since they launched into superstardom with their debut album, Parachutes, in 2001. Well, since the release of that album, Coldplay has somehow only scored two No. 1 hits.
The only two No. 1 hits Coldplay has notched on the Billboard Hot 100 are “Viva La Vida” and “My Universe”. Given the caliber of their talent, it’s easy to assume that they would at least have five No. 1 hits. Though, these four guys fall under the category of being bigger than the charts.
Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus‘ chart history is arguably criminal. However, it was seemingly decided by the people. Nonetheless, out of Cyrus’ whole catalog of catchy music, the former child star has only garnered two No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Those No. 1 hits are “Flowers” and “Wrecking Ball”.
You’d think Miley Cyrus would have more No. 1 hits given the popularity of the rest of her singles. Well, popular they are, but they weren’t popular enough to score Cyrus a few more No. 1’s. In addition to her two No. 1 hits, Miley Cyrus has had 13 singles reach the top 10 on the chart.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez and Miley Cyrus are in similar boats, and no, it’s not because they were both stars on the Disney Channel. Rather, it’s because they have had so many songs get so close to reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100. To this day, Selena Gomez is one of the most popular people on the planet, but that hasn’t translated into more No. 1 hits, as the pop star only has one, and that one is “Lose You to Love Me.”
In her sprawling catalog, Gomez has had a total of 45 songs grace the Billboard Hot 100. Nine of those songs reached the top 10, and three of those nine reached the top five. You might not like Gomez’s music, but regardless, you can’t help but wonder why she doesn’t have more No. 1 hits given her enormous fanbase and worldwide popularity.
Photo by Gilles Mingasson/ABC/Shutterstock









Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.