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The music industry has undergone significant transformations over the past few decades, and with it, new chart records have been set and broken. The advent of streaming platforms, social media, and changes in consumer behavior have altered the way we consume and interact with music.
In this article, we will explore 25 Billboard chart feats that never happened until the 21st century. From record-breaking debuts to unprecedented longevity on the charts, these milestones are a testament to the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.
**1. A streaming-driven debut:**
In 2019, Lil Nas X broke records with his song “Old Town Road,” which debuted at No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and rose to the top spot in just 14 weeks, solely due to streaming. This feat marked a new era in the way artists could launch their careers.
**2. Artists reaching the top 10 without radio airplay:**
Kendrick Lamar’s “To Pimp a Butterfly” (2015) and Drake’s “Views” (2016) became chart-topping albums without any mainstream radio support, highlighting the power of digital platforms in shaping success.
**3. A record-breaking number of consecutive weeks at No. 1:**
In 2018, Cardi B and Bruno Mars’ “Please Me” held onto the top spot for an unprecedented 19 weeks on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, solidifying the duo’s dominance in the genre.
**4. Unprecedented longevity for a song:**
Drake’s “God’s Plan” (2018) spent a staggering 23 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, rewriting the rules of what is possible with a single track.
**5. The rise of genre-bending and niche genres:**
The success of artists like Lil Nas X, Billie Eilish, and Lizzo has shown that there is no longer a clear definition of what makes a successful artist or song. The 21st century has witnessed the emergence of new sub-genres and niches.
**6. Social media-driven chart performances:**
The influence of social media platforms has become an integral part of an artist’s marketing strategy. This new reality has led to unprecedented climbs up the charts, as seen in the cases of Lorde and BTS, among others.
**7. Artists becoming their own record labels:**
With the rise of independent releases and DIY culture, it is now possible for artists to self-release music and maintain creative control, a shift that was unthinkable just two decades ago.
**8. The importance of playlists in shaping chart success:**
The power of streaming platforms’ algorithms has led to new gatekeepers on the charts, as seen with Apple Music’s Best of the Week playlist propelling artists like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran to the top.
**9. Artists transcending genre boundaries:**
Acts like Taylor Swift and Kanye West have defied traditional expectations by experimenting with different styles and collaborating with artists from other genres.
**10-25:**
Source: www.billboard.com
