May 21 has produced some unforgettable moments in Top 40 music history. From chart-topping singles and groundbreaking albums to legendary performances and industry controversies, this date highlights the evolution of pop, rock, and hip-hop across generations.
Here’s a closer look at the major music milestones connected to May 21.
Breakthrough Hits and Chart Milestones
Several iconic songs and albums made waves on May 21 throughout the years, helping shape the sound of modern music.
David Bowie Hits No. 1 With “Let’s Dance” — 1983
In 1983, David Bowie reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Let’s Dance.” The smash hit marked a major turning point in Bowie’s career as he transitioned from experimental art-rock into mainstream pop success.
George Michael’s Solo Success Continues — 1988
George Michael scored a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with “One More Try” in 1988. The emotional ballad came from his debut solo album, Faith, and confirmed his successful transition after Wham!
Soundgarden Releases Down on the Upside — 1996
Soundgarden released their fifth studio album, Down on the Upside, in 1996. The album climbed to No. 2 in the United States and featured hit songs like “Burden in My Hand” and “Blow Up the Outside World,” both of which topped Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart.
Radiohead Changes Alternative Music Forever — 1997
In 1997, Radiohead released their landmark album OK Computer. While the album reached only No. 21 on the Billboard 200, it topped the U.K. Official Albums Chart and became one of the most influential alternative rock albums ever recorded.
The album also produced successful singles including:
- “Karma Police”
- “Paranoid Android”
- “No Surprises”
Adele Dominates the Charts — 2011
Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2011. The song helped establish Adele as one of the defining voices of modern pop music thanks to her emotional lyrics and powerhouse vocals.
Olivia Rodrigo’s SOUR Debuts at No. 1 — 2021
Olivia Rodrigo released her debut album, SOUR, in 2021. The record debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and became an instant pop phenomenon.
Every song on the album reached the Billboard Hot 100 Top 30, including chart-topping hits:
- “drivers license”
- “good 4 u”
Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images
Post Malone and Morgan Wallen Top the Charts — 2024
In 2024, Post Malone and Morgan Wallen reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “I Had Some Help.” The crossover hit blended pop, rap, and country influences into one of the year’s biggest songs.
Cultural Milestones and Artist Birthdays
May 21 also marks the birthdays of several influential artists who left a major impact on popular music.
The Notorious B.I.G. Is Born — 1972
Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G. or Biggie Smalls, was born in Brooklyn, New York, on May 21, 1972.
The rap legend earned multiple No. 1 hits, including:
- “Hypnotize”
- “Mo Money Mo Problems”
Although his life was tragically cut short at age 24, Biggie remains one of hip-hop’s most influential artists.
Gotye Is Born — 1980
Belgian-Australian artist Gotye was born Wouter De Backer on May 21, 1980.
He became internationally famous with his 2011 album Making Mirrors, which featured the global smash hit “Somebody That I Used to Know” featuring Kimbra. The song spent eight weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Notable Concerts and Performances
May 21 has also delivered memorable live performances and historic tours.
Elton John Begins Historic USSR Tour — 1979
Elton John launched a groundbreaking tour of the Soviet Union on May 21, 1979. During the tour, he performed eight concerts and helped introduce Western pop music to Soviet audiences during the Cold War era.
Rush Performs in Buffalo — 1980
Rush performed at the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium in Buffalo, New York, on May 21, 1980, during their Permanent Waves Tour.
The setlist included fan favorites such as:
- “The Spirit of Radio”
- “Closer to the Heart”
The Permanent Waves album became one of the band’s biggest commercial successes.
KROQ Weenie Roast Brings Together Rock Icons — 2005
The 13th annual KROQ Weenie Roast took place in Los Angeles in 2005. The event featured performances from major rock acts including:
- Mötley Crüe
- Foo Fighters
- The Killers
Megan Thee Stallion Rocks Madison Square Garden — 2024
Megan Thee Stallion brought her Hot Girl Summer Tour to New York in 2024. During her Madison Square Garden performance, she delivered more than 25 songs, including:
- “Savage”
- “HISS”
- “BOA”
The tour supported her album Megan, which peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200.
Industry Changes and Controversies
Not every May 21 music story was celebratory. The date also includes several controversial moments involving major artists.
Brian Jones Arrested in England — 1968
Rolling Stones founder Brian Jones was arrested for cannabis possession in 1968. Since he was already on probation for a previous offense, he was ultimately found guilty and fined.
Joe Strummer Arrested After Concert Incident — 1980
In 1980, Clash frontman Joe Strummer was jailed briefly after striking a fan with his guitar during a concert in Hamburg, West Germany. He was later released after passing an alcohol test.
Ruben Studdard Wins American Idol — 2003
Ruben Studdard won Season 2 of American Idol on May 21, 2003. He later scored Top 40 hits including:
- “Flying Without Wings”
- “Sorry 2004”
Final Thoughts
May 21 stands out as an important day in Top 40 music history. From chart-topping singles and legendary albums to groundbreaking tours and unforgettable performances, the date reflects the lasting influence of popular music on global culture.
Whether it’s David Bowie redefining pop, Adele dominating the charts, or Olivia Rodrigo introducing a new generation to emotional pop songwriting, May 21 remains packed with unforgettable music milestones.