The guess that Eminem’s “The Monster (featuring Rihanna)” will ultimately reach the apex of the Billboard Hot 100 seems like a safe one to make.
That ascent did not happen this week.
Lorde’s “Royals” held its ground, in the process extending its Hot 100 reign to seven. It survived the rise of “Monster” on the strength of number one performances in the radio and on-demand columns. It ranked second for digital sales (behind A Great Big World’s “Say Something”) and third for streams.
Separated by 18% in total chart points, Em’s “The Monster” rose to number two this week. Big airplay, streaming and on-demand gains compensated for a decline in digital sales and facilitated the chart ascent.
Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball,” Katy Perry’s “Roar” and Avicii’s “Wake Me Up” completed the top five.
Drake’s “Hold On, We’re Going Home,” OneRepublic’s “Counting Stars,” Lady Gaga’s “Dope,” Imagine Dragons’ “Demons” and A Great Big World’s “Say Something (featuring Christina Aguilera)” followed to wrap up the top ten.