By any reasonable standard, Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” was already a spectacular, unique success story. Beloved from the moment it launched as part of Swift’s 2019 album “Lover,” the song has endured as an undeniable fan favorite.
It then emerged as a standout from her blockbuster “The Eras Tour,” with digital consumption numbers soaring as fans discovered, rediscovered, or simply continued celebrating the pop masterpiece.
Amid the growing digital success, “Cruel Summer” finally launched as a radio single — and enjoyed multi-week reigns atop the pop and hot adult contemporary airplay charts.
The one thing that was missing was a trip to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, but that changes this week.
“Cruel Summer” indeed tops the chart, moving up eight places from last week’s mark and two places from its prior peak. The song enjoyed balanced performance, faring well on the radio, streaming, and sales fronts.
The late-week release of alternate versions helped secure the #1, although “Cruel Summer” was trending toward the top spot regardless. After all, its ongoing buzz had been amplified by the release of Swift’s smash hit concert film.
“Cruel Summer” becomes Swift’s 10th career #1 on the Hot 100.
The balance of this week’s Top 5 is as follows:
2) Doja Cat – Paint The Town Red (+2)
3) SZA – Snooze (+4)
4) Drake – IDGAF ft. Yeat (-2)
5) Bad Bunny – MONACO (new)
