Mary Murphy
15 Music Legends Who Scored the Most No. 1 Hits on the Billboard Hot 100
Some artists make a few hits and disappear, but music legends keep reaching the top again and again. The Billboard Hot 100 chart has tracked America’s biggest songs since 1958, and only a handful of artists have managed to score double-digit No. 1 hits.
These superstars didn’t just get lucky once—they dominated the charts across decades, genres, and generations, proving their timeless appeal and unmatched talent.
1. The Beatles — 20
No group has ever dominated the Billboard Hot 100 like The Beatles. With 20 chart-topping singles, the Fab Four set a record that still stands more than half a century later.
Their reign began in 1964 and included unforgettable songs like Hey Jude, Let It Be, and I Want to Hold Your Hand. Each track showcased their genius for melody and innovation.
Even today, new generations discover their music and fall in love all over again. The Beatles didn’t just make hits—they changed what pop music could be, inspiring countless artists who followed.
2. Mariah Carey — 19
With her five-octave vocal range and undeniable star power, Mariah Carey sits just one hit behind The Beatles. Her 19 No. 1 singles span from the early ’90s to the 2000s, proving her staying power.
Songs like Fantasy, We Belong Together, and Vision of Love became instant classics. And let’s not forget All I Want for Christmas Is You, which still dominates the holidays every year.
Mariah’s ability to blend pop, R&B, and soul made her one of the most versatile artists ever. Her influence on modern vocal performance is impossible to overstate.
3. Elvis Presley — 18
Image Credit: © TMDB
Before anyone called themselves the King of Pop, there was the King of Rock and Roll. Elvis Presley earned 18 No. 1 hits during his legendary career, from Heartbreak Hotel to Suspicious Minds.
His chart dominance began in the 1950s and continued into the ’70s, a testament to his lasting appeal. Elvis didn’t just sing—he moved, captivated, and redefined what it meant to be a star.
His fusion of country, blues, and gospel created a sound that changed music forever. Decades after his passing, Elvis remains a cultural icon whose influence is still felt today.
4. Rihanna — 14
Rihanna holds the crown as the female artist with the most No. 1 hits of the 21st century. Her 14 chart-toppers include massive anthems like Umbrella, We Found Love, and Diamonds.
What sets Rihanna apart is her fearless genre-hopping—pop, R&B, dance, reggae, and hip-hop all sound natural in her hands. She’s as comfortable on a club banger as she is on a heartfelt ballad.
Beyond music, she’s become a global fashion and business mogul. But her Billboard legacy alone cements her as one of the greatest hitmakers ever.
5. Michael Jackson — 13
The King of Pop earned his title with 13 No. 1 singles that defined an entire generation. Billie Jean, Beat It, and Black or White weren’t just songs—they were cultural events.
Michael Jackson’s music videos revolutionized MTV and set new standards for visual storytelling. His electrifying performances and groundbreaking choreography made him a global phenomenon.
From his early days with The Jackson 5 to his solo superstardom, Michael’s influence is unmatched. His legacy continues to inspire artists across every genre and generation.
6. Drake — 13
Drake didn’t just adapt to the streaming era—he mastered it. With 13 No. 1 hits, he’s one of the most consistent chart forces in modern music history.
Tracks like God’s Plan, Hotline Bling, and One Dance dominated playlists and broke streaming records worldwide. His ability to blend rap, R&B, and pop has made him a crossover king.
Drake’s introspective lyrics and catchy hooks resonate with millions of fans. Whether he’s rapping or singing, his presence on the charts feels almost inevitable at this point.
7. Taylor Swift — 13
From country sweetheart to pop powerhouse to indie folk storyteller, Taylor Swift has done it all—and conquered the charts doing it. Her 13 No. 1 singles reflect her incredible versatility.
Songs like Shake It Off, Anti-Hero, and Blank Space showcase her knack for unforgettable melodies and relatable lyrics. Fans connect deeply with her honest songwriting and evolving sound.
Taylor’s ability to reinvent herself with each album keeps her relevant and beloved. She’s not just a chart-topper—she’s a cultural phenomenon who continues to break records.
8. Madonna — 12
Madonna earned the title Queen of Pop through sheer determination and reinvention. Her 12 No. 1 hits include iconic tracks like Like a Prayer, Vogue, and Hung Up.
What made Madonna special was her fearless approach to image and sound. She constantly evolved, staying ahead of trends and pushing boundaries in music, fashion, and video.
Decades into her career, Madonna remains one of the most influential figures in pop history. Her impact on female artists and pop culture as a whole is immeasurable.
9. The Supremes — 12
As Motown’s leading girl group, The Supremes set the standard for vocal harmony and style. Their 12 No. 1 singles include timeless classics like Baby Love, Stop! In the Name of Love, and You Can’t Hurry Love.
Led by Diana Ross, the group brought elegance and soul to every performance. Their polished sound and choreography made them crossover stars in the 1960s.
The Supremes helped break down racial barriers in pop music and paved the way for future girl groups. Their legacy remains a cornerstone of American music history.
10. Whitney Houston — 11
Few voices in history have matched the power and beauty of Whitney Houston. Her 11 chart-topping hits include unforgettable songs like I Will Always Love You and I Wanna Dance with Somebody.
Whitney’s vocal range and emotional delivery set her apart from every other artist of her era. She could deliver a soaring ballad or an upbeat dance track with equal brilliance.
Her influence on pop and R&B vocalists is still felt today. Whitney Houston remains one of the greatest singers the world has ever known.
11. Stevie Wonder — 10
A child prodigy turned musical genius, Stevie Wonder achieved 10 No. 1 hits across soul, pop, and R&B. Songs like Superstition and I Just Called to Say I Love You became instant classics.
Stevie’s mastery of multiple instruments and innovative production techniques reshaped the sound of modern music. His socially conscious lyrics and infectious grooves made him a legend.
Even now, his music feels fresh and relevant. Stevie Wonder’s contributions to music go far beyond chart success—he changed the entire landscape of R&B.
12. Janet Jackson — 10
Janet Jackson carved out her own legacy with 10 Billboard No. 1 hits, including That’s the Way Love Goes and All for You. She blended pop precision with R&B soul in a way few could match.
Her groundbreaking music videos and innovative choreography set new standards for live performance. Janet wasn’t just following trends—she was creating them.
As a solo artist, she stepped out of her famous family’s shadow and became a superstar in her own right. Her influence on pop and R&B remains powerful and undeniable.
13. Bee Gees — 9
The Bee Gees didn’t just ride the disco wave—they created it. With 9 No. 1 hits, including Stayin’ Alive, Night Fever, and How Deep Is Your Love, they defined the sound of the late ’70s.
Their falsetto harmonies and infectious grooves made them unstoppable during the disco boom. The Saturday Night Fever soundtrack alone became one of the best-selling albums ever.
Even after disco faded, the Bee Gees continued writing hits for other artists. Their songwriting genius and vocal talent remain legendary.
14. Katy Perry — 9
Katy Perry burst onto the scene with catchy pop anthems that dominated the 2010s. Her 9 No. 1 hits include Firework, California Gurls, and Roar—songs that became instant radio staples.
Known for her bold fashion choices and vibrant music videos, Katy brought fun and energy back to pop music. Her upbeat sound and empowering lyrics resonated with fans worldwide.
She matched the Bee Gees’ record and became one of the decade’s biggest stars. Katy Perry’s chart success proves that great pop music never goes out of style.
15. Paul McCartney — 9
After The Beatles, Paul McCartney kept climbing the charts. His solo career and work with Wings brought him 9 additional No. 1 hits, including Coming Up, Ebony and Ivory, and Say Say Say.
Paul proved he didn’t need the Fab Four to stay on top. His songwriting remained sharp, his melodies unforgettable, and his performances full of energy.
Counting his Beatles success, Paul McCartney has been part of more chart-toppers than almost anyone in history. His legacy as a musical legend is forever secure.
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