The Number Ones: Twenty Chart-Topping Hits That Reveal the History of Pop Music

Tom Breihan's Stereogum column, The Number Ones, has been nominated for a Pitchfork Best Music Book of 2022. It explores twenty pivotal #1 hits throughout chart history, revealing a fluid and connected story of music that is entertaining and enlightening. The book features the greatest pop artists of all time, from the Brill Building songwriters to the Beatles and the Beach Boys, and ponders great artists who have never hit the top spot.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2023
Publisher: Hachette Books

When Tom Breihan launched his Stereogum column in early 2018, he envisioned posting capsule-size reviews for each #1 hit in the Billboard Hot 100, in chronological order. However, as he delved deeper into the history of these songs, he discovered a wealth of information and a captivating story that deserved to be explored in greater detail. The column, known as "The Number Ones," has since gained a life of its own, sparking online debates and even receiving occasional death threats.

The Billboard Hot 100, which began in 1958, has been the subject of Breihan's column for over four years now. Despite the passage of time, readers no longer have to wait for his brilliant synthesis of the history of #1s and their impact on music and culture. In "The Number Ones," Breihan takes readers on a journey through twenty pivotal #1 hits throughout chart history. Through his writing, he reveals a remarkably fluid and interconnected story of music that is both entertaining and enlightening.

The book features some of the greatest pop artists of all time, ranging from the Brill Building songwriters to the Beatles, the Beach Boys, Motown, Michael Jackson, Prince, and Mariah Carey. Breihan also delves into the stories of artists who have never reached the top spot, such as Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and James Brown. He explores what makes indelible ear candy across different decades, including dance crazes, recording innovations, television phenomena, disco, AOR, MTV, rap, compact discs, MP3s, social media, memes, and more.

"The Number Ones" leaves readers wondering what the future holds for music and culture. It is a testament to Breihan's passion for music and his ability to convey its significance to a wider audience. Whether you are a music enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this book is a must-read. It will transport you back to the golden era of pop music and inspire you to appreciate the art form in new and exciting ways.

Weight: 554g
Dimension: 163 x 238 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780306826535