Billboard Hot 100 Chart – Week of June 26, 1961

🎵 #1 Song This Week

“Quarter to Three” – Gary U.S. Bonds

• Weeks at #1: 1 (first week of 2)
• A high-energy rock & roll party anthem
• Known for its raw, live-sounding production

👉 “Quarter to Three” reached #1, kicking off a 2-week run at the top and bringing a wild, party atmosphere back to the charts.

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🔝 Top 5 Songs – June 26, 1961

1. Quarter to Three – Gary U.S. Bonds
2. Moody River – Pat Boone
3. Travelin’ Man – Ricky Nelson
4. Stand by Me – Ben E. King
5. Running Scared – Roy Orbison

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🎶 What Was Happening This Week

• Rock & roll energy surged back to the #1 spot
• “Quarter to Three” stood out for its raw, party-like sound
• Ballads and soul hits remained strong in the Top 5

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🧠 Why This Chart Week Matters

This week represents:

• The return of high-energy rock & roll to #1
• A contrast to the smoother ballads dominating prior weeks
• The rise of a more “live” and unpolished sound in pop music

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🎯 Snapshot of the Moment

By late June 1961:

• The charts were shifting back toward energetic rock sounds
• Party-style records were connecting with audiences
• The competition remained tight across genres

At the top was “Quarter to Three” by Gary U.S. Bonds, beginning its exciting run as the #1 song in America.