The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits 9th Edition

Introduction to The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits 9th Edition

The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits, 9th Edition, is a comprehensive guide to the history of popular music in America, featuring all of the songs and artists that hit the Hot 100 chart from 1958 through 2019. Written by music historian Joel Whitburn, the book provides detailed information about each song, including its chart position, the artist who recorded it, and the songwriter(s) and producer(s) involved.

Overview of The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits 9th Edition

The book is an abridged version of Whitburn’s Top Pop Singles book, which includes all of the songs and artists that hit Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. The research begins with the issue of Billboard dated August 4, 1958, which marked the first issue of Billboard to feature the Hot 100 chart. The book covers all genres of popular music, from rock ‘n’ roll and pop to country and R&B, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of popular music in America.

Features

One of the book’s notable features is its detailed entries on each song. Providing readers with a wealth of information about the recording, including its duration, record label, and release date. The entries also include background information about the artists, including their careers, collaborations, and significant contributions to the music industry. The book also provides historical context for each song. With Whitburn often including anecdotes and trivia about the song’s creation and reception.

The book is also well-organized, with each year’s entries arranged chronologically. Making it easy for readers to trace the evolution of popular music over time. The book also includes a comprehensive index, allowing readers to easily search for specific songs, artists, or genres.

Critique

One potential critique of the book is its length. At over 1000 pages, it can be daunting for some readers. Particularly those who are less familiar with the history of popular music. However, for music enthusiasts, the book’s length is a testament to its thoroughness. Providing an exhaustive guide to the history of popular music in America.

Another potential critique is that the book focuses exclusively on chart-topping hits. Leaving out many important songs and artists. That may not have reached the top of the charts but have had a significant impact on the music industry. However, this is a necessary limitation given the book’s scope and focus on the Hot 100 chart.

Conclusion

Overall, The Billboard Book of Top 40 Hits, 9th Edition. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in the history of popular music in America. With its detailed entries, historical context, and comprehensive index. The book provides a wealth of information about the songs and artists. That have shaped the music industry over the past six decades. Despite its length and focus on chart-topping hits, the book is a valuable tool for music enthusiasts, historians. And anyone interested in the cultural history of the United States.