This Day in Top 40 History: March 30

March 30 is a big day for music fans, packed with chart-topping hits, legendary milestones, and the birthdays of some of the industry’s most iconic artists. From timeless classics to unforgettable voices, here’s what makes this day special in Top 40 history.

Breakthrough Hits and Milestones

Several major songs reached the top of the charts on this day:

• 1963: The Chiffons scored their first No. 1 hit with He’s So Fine. The track later became famous due to a plagiarism lawsuit involving George Harrison and his song My Sweet Lord.
• 1974: John Denver reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with Sunshine On My Shoulders, marking his first chart-topping single.
• 1985: Phil Collins hit No. 1 with One More Night, which stayed on top for two weeks and appeared on his hit album No Jacket Required.
• 1991: Chesney Hawkes began a five-week run at No. 1 in the UK with The One and Only, which also became a Top 10 hit in the United States.

Cultural Milestones and Famous Birthdays

March 30 also celebrates the birthdays of several influential artists:

• 1945: Eric Clapton was born in Ripley, England. One of the most influential guitarists ever, his version of I Shot the Sheriff topped the Billboard Hot 100.
• 1962: MC Hammer was born in Oakland, California. His hit U Can’t Touch This became a global sensation.
• 1964: Tracy Chapman was born in Cleveland, Ohio. Her timeless hit Fast Car remains a fan favorite decades later.