July 7 has delivered some unforgettable moments in Top 40 music history. From Prince earning his first Billboard No. 1 hit to Cardi B’s breakthrough chart-topping success with “I Like It,” this date has featured career-defining achievements, legendary performances, memorable birthdays, and major changes that have helped shape popular music.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Several chart milestones occurred on July 7 throughout the years.
In 1969, John Lennon released his first solo single in the United States, just days after its U.K. debut. It marked the beginning of his career outside The Beatles.
In 1984, Prince’s iconic single “When Doves Cry” became his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The song remained at the top of the chart for five consecutive weeks and became one of the defining songs of the decade.
In 1987, Erasure released their sophomore album, The Circus, in the United States. The album included fan favorites like “Sometimes,” “It Doesn’t Have to Be,” and “Don’t Dance.” While it narrowly missed the U.S. Top 40, it reached No. 6 in the United Kingdom.
In 2007, Rihanna’s smash hit “Umbrella” spent its fifth consecutive week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing its status as one of the year’s biggest songs.
In 2017, HAIM released Something To Tell You. The album featured singles including “Want You Back,” “Little of Your Love,” and “You Never Know.” It reached No. 2 in the U.K. and No. 7 on the Billboard 200.
In 2018, after spending 12 weeks climbing the Billboard Hot 100, “I Like It” by Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and J Balvin finally reached No. 1, becoming one of the biggest songs of the summer.
Cultural Milestones
July 7 has also celebrated the births of several influential artists.
In 1940, Richard Starkey—better known as Ringo Starr—was born in Liverpool, England. As the drummer for The Beatles, he helped the group achieve 20 Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles. Following the band’s breakup, Starr enjoyed a successful solo career with chart-toppers including “Photograph” and “You’re Sixteen (You’re Beautiful and You’re Mine).”
In 1947, David Hodo, who would later become one of the original members of the Village People, was born in Palo Alto, California.
In 1991, Swedish DJ and producer Alesso, born Alessandro Lindblad, entered the world. He later scored Top 40 success with songs like “Heroes (We Could Be)” and collaborated with artists including Usher, Calvin Harris, Liam Payne, and Zara Larsson.
In 1994, Ashton Irwin was born in Hornsby, Australia. As the drummer for 5 Seconds of Summer, he helped the band achieve worldwide success with hits such as “Amnesia” and “Youngblood.” The group has sold more than 10 million records globally.
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In 2009, fans around the world gathered as a public memorial service honored Michael Jackson at Los Angeles’ Staples Center. Mariah Carey and Trey Lorenz delivered an emotional performance of “I’ll Be There.”
Notable Recordings and Performances
Some of music’s biggest live events also took place on July 7.
In 2007, more than 150 artists performed during the worldwide Live Earth concerts, organized by former Vice President Al Gore to raise awareness about climate change. Performers included Madonna, Kelly Clarkson, Rihanna, John Mayer, and The Pussycat Dolls.
In 2010, Lady Gaga brought her spectacular Monster Ball Tour to Madison Square Garden for the second of two sold-out performances.
In 2019, Ed Sheeran performed before approximately 80,000 fans at Letňany Airport in Prague, making it one of the city’s largest concerts.
In 2023, Taylor Swift brought The Eras Tour to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Fans enjoyed performances of favorites including “Lover,” “Fearless,” and “Delicate.” The record-breaking tour eventually grossed approximately $2 billion.
Also in 2023, Van Morrison headlined the North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam alongside performers including Stormzy, Buddy Guy, Mavis Staples, and The Teskey Brothers.
In 2025, Coldplay performed at Rogers Stadium in Toronto during its massively successful Music of the Spheres Tour, delivering crowd favorites including “Paradise,” “Hymn for the Weekend,” and “A Sky Full of Stars.” The global tour became one of the highest-grossing rock tours ever.
Industry Changes and Challenges
July 7 has also marked significant turning points within the music industry.
In 1968, The Yardbirds played their final concert at Luton College of Technology in England. Soon afterward, the group evolved into Led Zeppelin, one of rock’s most influential bands.
In 1993, Mia Zapata, lead singer of Seattle punk band The Gits, was tragically murdered at age 27. Although the band never reached the Top 40, Zapata remains an influential figure in the Pacific Northwest music scene.
In 2017, the Official U.K. Top 40 chart revised its chart methodology after Ed Sheeran’s album ÷ dominated the rankings, occupying 16 of the Top 20 positions.
In 2023, Taylor Swift released Speak Now (Taylor’s Version), continuing her project of re-recording her early albums to regain ownership of her master recordings.
Final Thoughts
July 7 stands out as a remarkable day in Top 40 music history. From Prince earning his first No. 1 hit and Rihanna dominating the charts to Taylor Swift reclaiming her music and Live Earth bringing artists together across the globe, this date showcases the lasting impact of music on culture, entertainment, and generations of fans.