Top 10 Best Selling Songs of All Time
Hi there, I’m Emily Johnson and I’m excited to share with you the top 10 best selling songs of all time. Music has the power to move us, inspire us, and make us feel alive. Whether you’re a music lover or not, these songs have become part of our collective cultural consciousness. So, let’s get started!
Curiosities and Statistics
- The best selling song of all time is White Christmas by Bing Crosby, with over 50 million copies sold worldwide.
- The second best selling song is Candle in the Wind 1997 by Elton John, with over 33 million copies sold worldwide.
- The third best selling song is Silent Night by Bing Crosby, with over 30 million copies sold worldwide.
- The top ten best selling songs of all time are all from the 20th century.
- The Beatles are the only band to have two songs in the top ten best selling songs of all time.
1. White Christmas by Bing Crosby
I did not grow up listening to Bing Crosby, but I can appreciate the timeless quality of White Christmas. This song has become synonymous with the holiday season and has been covered by countless artists. It’s no surprise that it’s the best selling song of all time.
2. Candle in the Wind 1997 by Elton John
This song was originally written in 1973 as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, but was reworked in 1997 as a tribute to Princess Diana after her tragic death. The new version became an instant hit and has since become the second best selling song of all time. It’s a beautiful tribute to a beloved figure.
3. Silent Night by Bing Crosby
This classic Christmas carol has been covered by countless artists, but Bing Crosby’s version remains the most popular. It’s a beautiful and peaceful song that captures the spirit of the holiday season.
4. Rock Around the Clock by Bill Haley & His Comets
This song is often credited as the first rock and roll hit. It was released in 1954 and became an instant sensation. It’s a fun and energetic song that still gets people dancing today.
5. I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston
This song was originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1973, but it was Whitney Houston’s version that became a smash hit. It was featured in the movie The Bodyguard and became an instant classic.
6. We Are the World by USA for Africa
This charity single was released in 1985 to raise money for famine relief in Africa. It featured an all-star lineup of musicians, including Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Stevie Wonder. It’s a powerful song with a powerful message that still resonates today.
7. Hound Dog by Elvis Presley
This song was originally recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, but it was Elvis Presley’s version that became a hit. It’s a classic rock and roll song that captures the energy and excitement of the genre.
8. Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
This song was released in 1983 and became one of Michael Jackson’s biggest hits. It’s a funky and catchy song with an iconic bass line. It’s no wonder it’s one of the best selling songs of all time.
9. The Twist by Chubby Checker
This song was originally released in 1959, but it wasn’t until Chubby Checker’s version that it became a hit. It’s a fun and simple song that still gets people dancing today.
10. Smooth by Santana feat. Rob Thomas
This song was released in 1999 and became a massive hit. It’s a collaboration between guitar legend Carlos Santana and Matchbox Twenty frontman Rob Thomas. It’s a smooth and catchy song that’s perfect for cruising down the highway.
FAQs
1. Are these the only best selling songs of all time?
No, these are just the top 10 best selling songs of all time. There are many other songs that have sold millions of copies.
2. Why are all of these songs from the 20th century?
These songs were all released during a time when physical copies of music (i.e. CDs, vinyl records) were the primary way people consumed music. With the rise of digital music, it’s unlikely that any song will ever sell as many copies as these classics did.
3. What makes a song a best seller?
A song is considered a best seller based on the number of copies it has sold worldwide. This includes physical copies (i.e. CDs, vinyl records) as well as digital downloads and streams.
4. Why do you think these songs have become so popular?
I think these songs have become popular because they each have something special that resonates with people. Whether it’s a catchy melody, powerful lyrics, or a memorable performance, these songs have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by people all over the world.
5. What is your personal favorite song on this list?
That’s a tough question! I think my personal favorite would have to be I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston. It’s a beautiful and powerful song that always gives me chills.
6. What other songs do you think should be on this list?
There are so many great songs that could be on this list! Some other contenders could include Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen, Hey Jude by The Beatles, and Thriller by Michael Jackson.
7. What is the future of best selling songs?
It’s hard to say what the future holds for best selling songs. With the rise of streaming services and the decline of physical media, it’s possible that we’ll never see another song sell as many copies as these classics did. However, music will always be an important part of our culture and there will always be new songs and artists that capture our hearts and minds.