The Alchemist recently voiced his opinion regarding a significant shift in music chart trends. For the first time since 1990, there are no rap songs in the Billboard Hot 100’s top 40. This marked an end to a 35-year streak that began with Biz Markie’s classic track, “Just a Friend,” which reached No. 41 on February 2, 1990.
Changes in Billboard Chart Methodology
The absence of rap in the top tier of the Hot 100 occurred after the popular song “Luther” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA was deemed recurrent and subsequently removed from the charts. This decision was influenced by new chart methodologies, which now eliminate recurrent songs that fall below specific thresholds after a set period.
- Date of Event: October 31, 2023
- First Absence of Rap in Top 40: Since 1990
- Notable Recurring Song: “Luther” (Kendrick Lamar & SZA)
- Initial Chart Position: No. 25 to No. 38 in its 46th week
Rap’s Decline in Commercial Success
The Alchemist’s comment on social media highlighted that this absence does not reflect the quality of rap music. He stated, “No rap in top 40 has nothing to do with the music being bad or good.” His remarks resonate with a growing concern among enthusiasts regarding rap’s declining commercial presence.
Throughout 2023, rap music encountered challenges in dominating the Billboard charts. Notably, there were no rap albums that reached the top of the Billboard 200. It wasn’t until July that Lil Uzi Vert’s “Pink Tape” broke through, and September saw Doja Cat’s “Paint the Town Red” climbing to Hot 100 success.
Current Top Rap Songs
As of now, the rap genre’s highest-charting songs include:
| Rank | Song Title | Artist(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 44 | Shot Callin | NBA YoungBoy |
| 48 | Safe | Cardi B (featuring Kehlani) |
| 49 | Hell at Night | BigXthaPlug (featuring Ella Langley) |
The evolving landscape of pop music charts continues to generate conversation among fans and artists alike. The dramatic shift in rap’s representation in the Billboard charts has prompted discussions on the future of the genre.
