May 20 is a significant date in the history of Top 40 music. From chart-topping hits to a mind-blowing festival, events from this day have contributed to the evolution of pop music. Read on to discover some of these.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
May 20 has witnessed the release of several history-making No. 1 hit singles:
- 1989: Paula Abdul’s “Forever Your Girl” began a two-week reign at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This was her second chart-topping single and solidified her pop star status.
- 1995: Montell Jordan’s “This Is How We Do It” retained its No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100 for the seventh consecutive week.
- 2007: Rihanna’s “Umbrella” featuring Jay-Z started a 10-week reign at the top of the Official U.K. Singles Chart. The song also spent seven straight weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, launching Rihanna into global superstardom.
- 2024: Post Malone and Morgan Wallen’s “I Had Some Help” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Notable Recordings and Performances
In addition to chart successes, May 20 has witnessed exceptional recordings and performances that have significantly contributed to the world of music:
- 2011: The Hangout Music Festival was held on May 20-22 in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The event brought together diverse people and music genres and featured many acts, including Paul Simon, The Black Keys, and Cee-Lo Green.
- 2023: The American Top 40 saw “Calm Down” by Rema and Selena Gomez at No. 1, followed by “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus and Miguel’s “Sure Thing.”
Industry Changes and Challenges
The music industry has faced challenges on May 20 in previous years:
- 1998: Frank Sinatra, one of the most popular and influential artists of all time, was laid to rest in Beverly Hills. Many celebrities and family members, including Tony Bennett, Liza Minnelli, and Jack Nicholson, attended the memorial service.
- 2012: After a long fight with cancer, the co-founder of the Bee Gees, Robin Gibb, passed away. The Bee Gees did much to popularize disco music globally and are among the best-selling artists of all time, with hits such as “Stayin’ Alive” and “Night Fever.”
May 20 marks a momentous day in the history of Top 40 music, with history from Paula Abdul, Rihanna, Montell Jordan, and Post Malone. The events on May 20 have influenced and will continue to shape the music industry.
