Billboard Hot 100 August 2021: A Month of Summer Hits and Surprises
August 2021 brought a blend of summer anthems and unexpected chart climbers to the Billboard Hot 100. The month saw a mix of established artists maintaining their dominance and new names making their mark. Here's a look at some of the highlights:
The Reign of "Stay"
The Weeknd's "Stay" with The Kid LAROI continued its reign at the top of the charts throughout August, solidifying its status as a summer smash. The emotional ballad topped the Hot 100 for six consecutive weeks, showcasing its enduring popularity.
Olivia Rodrigo's Unstoppable Rise
Olivia Rodrigo's "Good 4 U" remained a force to be reckoned with, climbing to the No. 2 spot in August. The track's raw emotion and relatable lyrics resonated with listeners, making it a mainstay on the Hot 100 throughout the summer.
A New Generation of Stars
Several new artists made their presence felt on the Hot 100 in August. The Kid LAROI's "Without You" with Miley Cyrus reached the top 10, solidifying his rise as a breakout star. Meanwhile, Doja Cat's "Kiss Me More" featuring SZA continued its steady climb, ultimately reaching the No. 3 spot.
The Power of Collaboration
Collaborations were a major force in August, with several tracks featuring multiple artists making their mark. The aforementioned "Stay" and "Without You" were prime examples, along with Justin Bieber's "Peaches" featuring Daniel Caesar and Giveon. The track reached the No. 1 spot in August, demonstrating the appeal of collaborations across genres.
The Unexpected Surge
Some tracks experienced unexpected surges in popularity in August. "Bad Habits" by Ed Sheeran saw a resurgence in the charts, climbing to the No. 4 spot, while Glass Animals' "Heat Waves" continued its steady climb, reaching the top 10 for the first time.
Looking Ahead
August 2021 marked a pivotal month in the music landscape, with established artists and new names alike making their mark on the Billboard Hot 100. The summer season's influence was evident in the chart-topping tracks, while the emergence of new stars hinted at a changing musical landscape. With the fall season approaching, it will be interesting to see how the Hot 100 evolves in the coming months.
