Instrumentals That Climbed to the Top of Music Charts
Music charts play a vital role in determining which songs reign supreme in the hearts of listeners. Interestingly, many of the chart-toppers are rich in melody and beats yet bereft of any lyrics. This article explores the highest-charting songs that have no lyrics and offers a deep dive into their significance and history.
The Highest-Charting Instrumental: Baauer's Harlem Shake
When thinking about the highest-charting lyric-less songs, Baauer's "Harlem Shake" immediately comes to mind. This track is particularly noteworthy as it spent five weeks at the top of the Billboard US Hot 100 chart in 2013. While it features sampled vocals, the main hook is succinct and repetitive, almost ritualistic in nature. This dance track captured the imagination of club-goers and dancers, highlighting the power of rhythm and melody over words. The sampled vocals, primarily saying "Harlem Shake," add a layer of authenticity and cultural context, distinct yet not quite rising to the level of extensive lyrical content.
Earlier High-Charting Instrumentals: A Historical Overview
The significance of "Harlem Shake" is hard to ignore, but it wasn't the only instrumental to gain such prominence in the charts. Other notable examples include:
1. "Miami Vice" Theme (Jan Hammer)
This iconic track from the 'Miami Vice' TV series made it to the top of the Billboard US Hot 100 for a week in November 1985. Not only did it captivate audiences with its dynamic and catchy melody, it also marked a significant milestone in instrumental music's chart presence. The theme was not just a soundtrack but a standalone hit, proving that melody can resonate as powerfully as lyrics.
2. "Chariots of Fire" Theme (Vangelis)
Vangelis's unforgettable score for the 1981 film "Chariots of Fire" also held the top spot for a week in 1982. This track, with its sweeping orchestral sound, has become synonymous with the movie and a staple in all-time greatest instrumental music.
3. "Star Wars" Theme (Meco's Disco Version)
Meco's disco rendition of "Star Wars" stormed the charts for two weeks in 1977, showcasing how a familiar score, albeit reimagined, can still command attention. The disco twist added a fresh layer to the classic melody, making it appealing to a broader audience.
4. "A Fifth of Beethoven" (Walter Murphy)
Another standout instrumental, Walter Murphy's "A Fifth of Beethoven" reached the top spot for a week in 1976. This disco-infused version of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony brought classical music into the dance floor, blending the old with the new.
Conclusion: The Unique Appeal of Instrumental Music
Instrumentals hold a special place in the history of music charts. From the dynamic themes of TV shows to iconic soundtracks and minimalist dance tracks, these songs demonstrate that music can communicate emotions and convey narratives without the need for words. As the industry continues to evolve, it's fascinating to see how instrumental music remains a significant force in the music landscape. The future may hold more instrumental hits that challenge the very notion of what a hit song can be.
From the brass and horn-driven tracks of the '70s to the sample-heavy electronic beats of today, instrumental music continues to captivate audiences with its melodies and rhythms. The high-charting examples discussed here serve as a testament to the enduring power of instrumental music.