Breaking down the Billboard Charts

“Lose Control” by Teddy Swims has been on the Billboard Hot 100 for the past 111 weeks, and at some point, you have to ask yourself, “Who is listening to this?” The Billboard Charts are supposed to represent what’s popular in music, typically pop and rap, with chart placements generated according to sales, radio airplay, and streaming data. However, the current charts do not reflect what a lot of people are listening to in general. This past summer, many people noticed that there wasn’t really a song of the summer. In fact, the charts have been stagnant for the past year, somewhat mirroring the chaos that has occurred since the 2024 election. It begs the question: why do people cling to the known and safe in times of change?

Blazer opinions

From 9/5/25 - 9/15/25, 20 Blair students were polled on their opinions about the current Billboard charts. They were asked about their feelings about the Billboard Charts and whether they have listened to any of the songs currently on the charts in their free time.

BB_2

Photo: A pie chart depicting Blazers' listening habits.

A pie chart depicting Blazers' listening habits.



When asked about the current charts, one student explained, “I think it can be a good way to represent current pop songs, but sometimes songs get popular after they are on the Billboard, so maybe it’s rigged.”

Another student observed, “Music is very temporary, it’s just one song and then a new one and that’s it.”

Although most believe that the charts represent what is popular, many people, especially young people, have noticed the resurgence or stagnation of older songs on the charts.

Explaining the current charts

One reason to explain the lack of movement on the current charts is the fact that 2024 was a massive year for music, with hits from both older and newer artists. Those songs were placed on casual listening playlists, which have contributed to the longevity of these songs in the cultural zeitgeist. 

Additionally, the sheer volume of music available means that it takes longer for any single song to achieve enough widespread popularity to reach the top. However, once a song becomes a certified hit, its momentum is sustained for much longer.

According to Michael Martin, senior vice president of programming at Audacy, “People wanted things they knew, like their favorite TV show that they binge-watched again. There’s something about that familiar song that they loved and wanted to keep hearing.”

This listening trend suggests shifts within the music scene, but also something deeper about our current culture and society. The highly polarized and intense political climate has left many Americans exhausted. In response, people may be drawn to familiar, comforting music rather than engaging with new releases. This echoes the historical trend of seeking solace in art during difficult times.

As the political climate continues to intensify and society continues to change, it will be interesting to see what music becomes popular and what the conversations surrounding it will be.