r/TheHot100

Happy Birthday to an icon!

But a number 1 in my book! 🤩 -1988-

On February 24th, 1973 Roberta had her 2nd #1song on Billboard's Hot 100 that stayed there for 5 consecutive weeks. The song was a collaboration written with singer/songwriter Lori Lieberman & was born of a poem she wrote after experiencing a strong reaction to a Don McLean song, " Empty Chairs". Roberta first heard song on a flight. She performed the song for the first time live supporting Marvin Gaye, who told Roberta she had to record a version before playing it live again. What followed was one of the most universally heartfelt songs of all time. Just a heart-wrenching ballad everyone could relate to. The lyrical power is one that moves mountains.

The wreck itself is haunting and fascinating, but I’m also amazed this song reached #2 a little over a year from the wreck. Kept out of the top spot by Rod Stewart’s “Tonight’s the Night.”

🦎