Reaching number one on the Billboard Top 100 is a huge accomplishment for any artist.

It solidifies their work as a critical success, providing a tangible measurement of a song’s performance.

However, many songs don’t reach this milestone, even when it feels like they should have.

Ariana Grande Butera as Glinda singing in Munchkinland in Wicked

Billboard Hot 100but, for varying reasons, never actually claimed that spot.

For the following hits, the fact that they weren’t number one is simply shocking.

However,the single debuted at number three on the charts.

Lady Gaga in front of all of her album covers

It became an instant radio hit, being used in commercials and movies for years to come.

Billboard Hot 100.The song peaked at number two on the charts,but it still set impressive records.

The song has had a huge cultural impact, being featured in visual media since its release.

Finger Eleven

It’s a classic early 2000s feel-good jam, but it just never cracked that number-one spot.

It seemed like this song would be an easy number-one hit.

It reached the number one spot in 2024, the first time that Hozier has ever gained this achievement.

dan with arm up during natural at imagine dragons concert

Imagine Dragons Live in Vegas

Their debut single “What Makes You Beautiful” seems like a no-contest number-one hit.

It’s got catchy, romantic lyrics and an upbeat vibe.

However,it only peaked at number four on the American charts.

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The Killers emerged as part of this scene, though many consider them to be a one-hit wonder.

Despite its massive impact and presence in pop culture, the song never reached number one.

The cultural impact of this song is incredible.