Billboard Hot 100 Chart – Week of March 9, 1968

1. Love Is Blue (L’amour Est Bleu) – Paul Mauriat And His Orchestra

Love Is Blue (L’amour Est Bleu) held the number one position for a fifth consecutive week, an extraordinary accomplishment for an instrumental recording in the rock era. By this point, the record had moved beyond surprise-hit status and established itself as one of the defining songs of early 1968.

The beauty of the recording lies in its simplicity. Paul Mauriat’s arrangement allowed the melody to take center stage, creating an emotional connection without the need for lyrics. The result was a record that appealed to listeners across generations.

Its continued chart dominance demonstrated that audiences still responded to elegance and melody, even as popular music became increasingly experimental. The song remains one of the most successful instrumental recordings in Billboard history.

2. (Theme From) Valley Of The Dolls – Dionne Warwick

Dionne Warwick remained at number two for another week with (Theme From) Valley Of The Dolls. The song had quickly become one of the biggest hits of her career and showcased the sophisticated vocal style that made her one of the era’s most respected performers.

Warwick brought emotional depth and elegance to the recording, elevating it far beyond a standard movie theme. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously helped the song resonate with a wide audience.

Although it had yet to overtake the chart leader, its continued strength proved that listeners remained captivated by Warwick’s artistry and the song’s dramatic message.

3. (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay – Otis Redding

Otis Redding held the number three position this week as (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay continued its remarkable ascent. The song represented a new artistic direction for Redding and introduced many listeners to a more reflective side of his music.

Its relaxed pace and introspective lyrics distinguished it from much of the soul music dominating radio. Rather than relying on intensity alone, the song drew listeners in through atmosphere and emotional honesty.

Even before reaching its eventual peak, the record was already being recognized as something special. Its continued rise suggested that an all-time classic was still gaining momentum.

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4. Simon Says – 1910 Fruitgum Co.

Simon Says climbed from number five to number four, reaching a new chart peak. The song became one of the defining examples of bubblegum pop, a style that prioritized catchy melodies, simple lyrics, and youthful fun.

The record’s appeal was immediate. Its sing-along chorus and playful energy made it a favorite among younger listeners while still attracting substantial radio exposure. Few songs of the era were as instantly memorable.

Its rise into the Top 5 highlighted the broad range of music finding success in 1968. While some artists explored complex themes and experimental sounds, others found success through pure entertainment and infectious hooks.

5. I Wish It Would Rain – The Temptations

The Temptations slipped one position to number five, but I Wish It Would Rain remained one of the most emotionally powerful records on the chart. Its heartfelt lyrics and exceptional vocal performances helped it stand apart from many of the week’s more upbeat songs.

The song showcased the group’s versatility, proving they could deliver deeply personal material without sacrificing the polished sound that defined Motown. Every element of the recording worked together to create a powerful emotional experience.

Its continued presence in the Top 5 reinforced the enduring influence of Motown during one of the most competitive periods in music history.

More Weeks at #1 for “Love Is Blue”

This song spent multiple weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Explore each chart week below: