The year 1964 was one of the most transformative years in the history of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It marked the explosive arrival of the British Invasion, which completely changed the sound of American pop music. The Beatles led the charge with multiple number one hits, while other British bands quickly followed.
At the same time, Motown artists like The Supremes and Mary Wells brought smooth soul to the top of the charts, and American acts fought back with their own unforgettable songs.
This was the year when everything seemed to shift overnight. Teen idols and innocent love songs gave way to a fresh wave of energy, new hairstyles, and exciting new sounds from across the Atlantic. Girl groups continued to shine, and several artists scored their first-ever number one hits. From the joyful harmonies of The Beatles to the elegant soul of The Supremes and the playful energy of The Dixie Cups, 1964 delivered a perfect mix of classic American pop and groundbreaking British influence that would define the rest of the decade.
Here is the complete list of every song that reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1964.
- Click on the song title to Listen to song
- Click any artist name to read the full artist bio.
- Click “See the Top 5 Songs for the week” to explore the complete chart for that week on our site.
Every #1 Hit of 1964
What Made 1964 Special?
- The Beatles had an incredible six number one hits in a single year — a record that still stands.
- The British Invasion officially began with “I Want to Hold Your Hand” in February.
- Motown scored multiple #1 hits with The Supremes and Mary Wells.
- “Chapel of Love” by The Dixie Cups became one of the most joyful girl group anthems of the decade.
1964 was the year the music world changed forever. The arrival of The Beatles and other British bands opened the door to a new era of rock and pop that would dominate the rest of the 1960s.
Explore More from 1964
- Read the full The Beatles bio
- Read the full The Supremes bio (as Diana Ross & the Supremes)
- Read the full The Marvelettes bio
- Read the full The Dixie Cups bio
- Read the full Manfred Mann bio
Which 1964 #1 song is your favorite?
Leave a comment below and tell us why!
Next: Check out our article for All #1 Songs on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965