Longest Span Between First And Last Number 1

Information last updated in January of 2013. Information subject to change in the future.

PRE-HOT 100

Two other artists had comparable durations between their first and final #1 hits if the pre-Hot 100 era is considered.

Louis Armstrong’s “All of Me” topped the 1932 chart, according to Whitburn’s “Pop Memories: 1890-1954” research; Armstrong’s “Hello, Dolly!” was #1 in May 1964, some 32 years and 2 months later.

Frank Sinatra’s first chart-topper was “All or Nothing at All” in September 1943, as the singer for Harry James’ orchestra; his last was “Somethin’ Stupid,” an April 1967 duet with his daughter Nancy Sinatra, for a span of 23 years, 7 months.

CHER

“I Got You Babe”
August 1965 
(with Sonny)

33 Years,

7 Months

“Believe”
March 1999

MICHAEL JACKSON

“I Want You Back”
January 1970
(as part of The Jackson 5)

25 Years,

8 Months

You Are Not Alone”
September 1995

ELTON JOHN

“Crocodile Rock”
February 1973

24 Years,

8 Months

“Candle in the Wind 1997” / “Something About the Way You Look Tonight”
October 1997

THE BEACH BOYS

“I Get Around”
July 1964

24 Years,

4 Months

“Believe”
March 1999

GEORGE HARRISON

“I Want to Hold Your Hand”
February 1964
(as part of The Beatles)

23 Years,

11 Months

“Got My Mind Set on You”
January 1988