Did the Rolling Stones Ever Knock the Beatles Out of the Number One Spot on Billboard?

In the 1960s, the rivalry between the Beatles and the Rolling Stones in the music industry was the stuff of legends. Many fans wondered if one band ever managed to dethrone the other from the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. We delved into the archives to uncover the truth behind their chart battles.

Reign of the Beatles

The Beatles were known for their consistent and impressive chart performance. Their song Yesterday held the number one position on the Billboard Hot 100 for an extended period, often challenging for the top spot and even staying there for weeks. However, there were occasions when other acts managed to nudge them from the number one slot.

The Supremes, in particular, managed to knock the Beatles off the number one position more than once. But when it came to the Rolling Stones, the story was a bit different. There is only one documented instance where the Rolling Stones managed to knocked the Beatles off the number one spot, and we’ll explore the evidence.

The Usurpation: October 30th, 1965 to November 6th, 1965

The chart battle began on October 30th, 1965. The Beatles' song Yesterday was at number one, while the Rolling Stones' Get Off My Cloud was third. However, the chart positions changed dramatically only a week later on November 6th, 1965. Get Off My Cloud usurped the Beatles' Yesterday and jumped to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This is considered the only instance where the Stones managed to knock the Beatles from the top spot.

A Supposed Rivalry?

Despite the positive rivalry in the charts, there is evidence to suggest that the Rolling Stones and the Beatles were not just competitors but also respected colleagues. Mick Jagger, the frontman of the Rolling Stones, has spoken about the relationship between the two bands. Interestingly, the two groups often timed their releases to avoid direct competition.

For instance, they would release songs on different days or give each other space between albums, ensuring that they did not compete head-to-head in the charts. This strategic behavior not only lowered the chances of a heated confrontation but also helped to build and maintain a friendly rapport.

The Early Promotion

The relationship between the two bands extends back to their early days in the music industry. The Beatles recognized the artistic value of the Rolling Stones and actively promoted them before they even had a recording session. This early support from one of the most successful and influential bands in the world helped to establish the Stones as a formidable force in the music industry.

Conclusion

While the Rolling Stones did manage to knock the Beatles out of the number one spot on Billboard once, the broader narrative of their 1960s rivalry is more nuanced. The bands were not just rivals but also respected each other and often played a strategic game of hide-and-seek in the charts. This unique dynamic contributed to a period of music history that continues to fascinate fans and scholars alike.

Did you know about this unique event in the music history of the 1960s? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!