For a period of several years, Bruce Springsteen was one of the most successful musicians in America–in the world, really. He produced smash hits, which took over the airwaves and dominated the pop culture conversation. That era of his career appears to be largely over, but he’s not quite done reaching the most important songs chart in the U.S.
Springsteen lands on the Hot 100 this week with a brand new tune. He joins Zach Bryan on the song “Sandpaper,” which debuts at No. 71.
“Sandpaper” marks Springsteen’s first new entry on the Hot 100 since 2009. That year, his own “Working on a Dream” reached No. 95, barely breaking onto the list of the most-consumed tracks in the U.S. It’s been even longer since the rocker appeared as high on the tally as he is at this moment.
Billboard notes that it’s been more than two decades since Springsteen rose anywhere near as high as he sits this week. The last time he landed an even bigger smash on the list was back in 2002. “The Rising” soared to No. 52 that year.
“Sandpaper” gives Springsteen his twenty-seventh placement on the Hot 100. He’s been racking up successes on the ranking since the ‘70s, so his winning streak now spans six decades. The Grammy champion hasn’t added to that total each decade, but the fact that he’s still doing so today is impressive.
Bryan debuts more than a dozen tracks on the Hot 100 this week. They’re all taken from his new album The Great American Bar Scene, which is enjoying a massive frame on the Billboard charts. In addition to his many new arrivals, several other tunes by the Americana star also appear on the list, as he controls 18% of the 100-spot tally.