1. “You Light Up My Life” by Debby Boone
Debby Boone’s 1977 hit “You Light Up My Life” held onto the #1 spot for a jaw-dropping 10 consecutive weeks, setting records in the process. This ballad became the go-to song for love and inspiration, staying on the charts for a remarkable 36 weeks. It was the longest-running #1 song of its time, solidifying its place in Billboard history.
2. “Old Time Rock & Roll” by Bob Seger
Bob Seger’s 1979 hit “Old Time Rock & Roll” may never have hit #1, but it’s become a classic that’s stayed popular through decades, partly due to its unforgettable scene in Risky Business. The song originally spent 23 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and has become a beloved anthem celebrating the timeless appeal of rock ‘n’ roll. With its upbeat tempo and nostalgia for music’s golden age, it’s a track that continues to get people on their feet.
3. “Physical” by Olivia Newton-John
Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical” was a smash hit that made waves for both its catchy beat and bold lyrics in 1981. Staying at #1 for 10 weeks and remaining on the charts for 60 weeks, this track became an anthem for a generation looking to push boundaries and have fun.
4. “Endless Love” by Diana Ross & Lionel Richie
Released in 1981, “Endless Love” spent an impressive nine weeks at #1 and stayed on the Hot 100 for 27 weeks. This duet between Diana Ross and Lionel Richie was a heart-melting love ballad that became one of Motown’s biggest hits of the ’80s.
5. “How Do I Live” by LeAnn Rimes
LeAnn Rimes’ “How Do I Live” ruled the charts in 1997 and held its place on the Hot 100 for a then-record-breaking 69 weeks. This heartfelt ballad about longing and love became a timeless classic, showcasing Rimes’ powerful vocals and her ability to connect emotionally with listeners.
6. “Un-Break My Heart” by Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton’s sultry, soulful “Un-Break My Heart” dominated the airwaves in 1996. Spending 11 weeks at #1 and 44 weeks in the Hot 100, it’s one of the longest-charting ballads ever. This song became Braxton’s signature hit and has remained a powerful anthem for heartbreak.
7. “Bette Davis Eyes” by Kim Carnes
“Bette Davis Eyes” was the standout hit of 1981, spending nine weeks at #1 and 26 weeks on the Hot 100. Kim Carnes’ raspy vocals and the song’s unique melody created a haunting vibe that took over the charts and made this track unforgettable.
8. “Faith” by George Michael
George Michael’s “Faith” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks in 1987 but stayed on the charts for a solid 25 weeks. This hit showcased Michael’s versatile voice and helped solidify him as a pop icon, blending rock, pop, and a bit of soul that made it hard to resist.
9. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
Released in 1983, “Every Breath You Take” quickly became The Police’s biggest hit, spending eight weeks at #1 and 20 weeks on the Hot 100. Though it’s often interpreted as a love song, its somewhat haunting lyrics and melody give it a darker edge that has kept fans intrigued for decades.
10. “Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees
“Stayin’ Alive,” a staple of the disco era, spent four weeks at #1 in 1978 and hung around the charts for a full 27 weeks. The song became the anthem of a generation and a defining track of the disco craze, with its infectious beat and the Bee Gees’ signature harmonies.
11. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” spent just three weeks at #1 in 1979 but managed to stick around the Hot 100 for a total of 27 weeks. More than just a hit, this song became a symbol of resilience and empowerment, loved by generations and recognized as a timeless anthem of strength.
12. “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye’s sultry “Let’s Get It On” held the #1 spot for two weeks in 1973 and remained on the charts for 22 weeks. Known for its seductive lyrics and smooth groove, this classic became an enduring anthem of passion and romance, showing off Gaye’s immense talent and charisma.
