3 Iconic Songs That Became No. 1 Hits Only After the Singer’s Death

A sad truth about legacy and fame is that both these notions become amplified when one tragically passes. It’s a weird idea, but one that undeniably rings true regarding all industry titans. When they pass, their character and talent become encased in amber for everyone to view for eternity. Hence, many musicians’ hit songs have skyrocketed to the top of the charts following their passing.

It is a bit upsetting to see this transpire, as it makes one ask why their songs couldn’t top the charts in the first place. On the contrary, it’s refreshing and gratifying to see their work garner the respect it deserves, and in some occurrences, become some of the most famous and decorated songs of all time. With all that in mind, here are three songs to hit No. 1 after the singer tragically passed.

“Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffett

Jimmy Buffett was known for a great many things, however, topping the charts was not one of them. Nor, was it seemingly his motivation to do so. Rather, Buffett’s goal was to create great music, that created great vibes, and created great memories. Wholesome, to say the least. Well, this wholesomeness is not only what cemented his legacy, but also what helped acquire him his first No. 1 hit with, “Margaritaville.”

Released in 1977, Buffet’s serenading island tune peaked at No. 8 following its release. Although, after his passing in September of 2023, the song reached the spot it deserved as it topped the charts for two weeks.

“Time in a Bottle” by Jim Croce

Jim Croce’s career was not only short, but it was also lyrically monumental. In addition to being one of the best songwriters of the ’70s, Croce was a staple figure in the folk rock scene and rivaled similar figures of the decade. Despite only garnering a mass amount of fame for a year, Croce released numerous hit songs including “Bad Bad Leroy Brown” and “I Got A Name.”

Following his death from a 1973 plane crash, Croce’s poetic legacy was lived on by his sentimentally soothing song, “Time in a Bottle.” Even though it did not reach No. 1 upon its initial release in 1972, it garnered the top spot for two weeks in early 1974. “Time in a Bottle” landed Croce his second No.1 hit following “Bad Bad Leroy Brown.”

“Voodoo Child” by Jimi Hendrix

Released in 1968, Jimi Hendrix’s “Voodoo Child” was surprisingly the late guitarist’s only No. 1 hit. Frankly, it’s mind-boggling how songs such as “Purple Haze” and “All Along The Watchtower” didn’t reach the No. 1 spot.

Regardless, Hendrix was finally able to get the job done following his death in September of 1970. Roughly a month after his passing, Hendrix’s “Voodoo Child” finally received the acclaim it deserved as it peaked at No. 1 in the UK.

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