Best Summer #1 Hits From Every Decade
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy some of the biggest hit songs of the year. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or dancing at a backyard barbecue, a catchy tune can make the experience even better. As we look back on the past century of music, there have been countless songs that have captured the spirit of the season and become enduring favorites. Here, we’ll take a look at the best summer #1 hits from each decade.
1920s: “Whispering” by Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra
The 1920s was the decade that saw the rise of jazz and the beginning of the “Roaring Twenties.” “Whispering,” a song written by John Schonberger, Richard Coburn, and Vincent Rose, was the perfect soundtrack for the carefree and glamorous lifestyle of the era. It topped the charts for an impressive 15 weeks in 1920.
1930s: “Pennies from Heaven” by Bing Crosby
The 1930s was the era of the “Big Band Sound,” and “Pennies from Heaven” was one of the biggest hits of the decade. Sung by Bing Crosby, the song topped the charts for 8 weeks in 1936 and was featured in the eponymous film starring Crosby and Louis Armstrong.
1940s: “I’ll Be Seeing You” by Bing Crosby
The 1940s were marked by World War II, and the songs of the era reflected the longing and nostalgia of soldiers and their loved ones. “I’ll Be Seeing You,” sung by Bing Crosby, topped the charts for 10 weeks in 1944 and remains a classic to this day.
1950s: “Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley & His Comets
The 1950s was the decade of rock and roll, and “Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley & His Comets was one of the biggest hits of the era. The song topped the charts for 8 weeks in 1955 and was featured in the film “Blackboard Jungle,” helping to establish rock and roll as a dominant force in popular music.
1960s: “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)” by Four Tops
The 1960s was a decade of social and cultural change, and the music reflected the spirit of the times. “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)” by Four Tops topped the charts for 2 weeks in 1965, and its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics made it the perfect summer hit.
1970s: “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” by Jim Croce
The 1970s was a decade of diverse musical styles, and “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” by Jim Croce was one of the biggest hits of the era. The song topped the charts for 2 weeks in 1973 and its storytelling lyrics and catchy rhythm made it a summer favorite.
1980s: “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
The 1980s was the decade of synth-pop and new wave, and “Every Breath You Take” by The Police was one of the biggest hits of the era. The song topped the charts for 8 weeks in 1983 and its haunting lyrics and memorable melody made it a summer staple.
1990s: “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
The 1990s was a decade of R&B and hip-hop, and “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston was one of the biggest hits of the era. The song topped the charts for 14 weeks in 1992 and its powerful vocals and emotional lyrics made it a summer favorite.
2000s: “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z
The 2000s saw the rise of pop and hip hop, and “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z was one of the biggest hits of the decade. The song topped the charts for 8 weeks in 2003 and its catchy beat and Beyoncé’s iconic vocals made it a summer anthem.
2010s: “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee
The 2010s was a decade of global pop, and “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee was one of the biggest hits of the era. The song topped the charts for 16 weeks in 2017 and its catchy rhythm, and blend of Latin and pop music made it a worldwide hit and perfect for the summer.
In conclusion, each decade has had its own unique sound and style, but these songs have stood the test of time and have become summer favorites. They have all been able to capture the essence of the season in their own way and have made lasting impressions on music history.
