The number one songs in 1992 is based on all the songs that got to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the year 1992. There were a total of 13 songs that made it to the peak of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1992.
Number One Songs in 1992 and our take on them.
This year was a big year for 90s music, as it kicked start a wave of new music production methods which saw a transition across many genres. Gone were the days of the 80s style of rap, pop was popping and rock was rocking with a new vibe.
1992 was also the year that the Billboard Hot 100 chart got a revamp, to indicate what the listeners are really listening to. In came the Broadcast Data Systems which at the time monitored airplay of songs on television and radio. There was also the introduction of “Soundscan” which tracked the number of CD singles and cassettes sold.
There were a number of first-timers who reached Billboard's number one position in 1992 and it included a kid duo rap group. Also, some big songs were kept off the top spot by some surprising names. Without further ado, here are the number one songs in 1992 from the Billboard Hot 100.
Black or White – Michael Jackson
Black and White is the first number one song in 1992, is a powerful and socially conscious song by the late iconic pop star Michael Jackson. This track was released in 1991 on the album Dangerous (1991).
The song’s message was that of equality and opportunities and racial togetherness. The song carries a message of racial harmony and equality, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond superficial differences and treating all people with respect and acceptance.
The music video for "Black or White" showcased various cultural and ethnic backgrounds symbolizing the idea of unity in diversity.
"Black or White" is the first number-one song of 1992 on the Billboard Hot 100 1992. It ended the year 1991 as number one and retained its spot at the start of the year 1992.
“Black or White peaked at number one on 7th December 1991 and stayed at number one into the new year. It displaced “Set Adrift On Memory Bliss” by P.M. Dawn which spent a week at the top of the chart. It stayed there for 7 weeks before being displaced by…(see next song).
Time on top: Seven weeks (Including some weeks in 1991).
All 4 Love – Color Me Badd
"All 4 Love" by Color Me Badd, is the third single off the album C.M.B. This song released in 1991, is a smooth R&B ballad that explores themes of love and devotion. The song showcases the group's harmonies and romantic lyrics, expressing a deep desire to be with someone and commit to a loving relationship.
“All 4 Love” became the 2nd number one song in 1992 taking over from Michael Jackson’s “Black or White”. It spent a week at the peak of the chart making it one of the number one songs in 1992. The song spent many weeks in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.
The Oklahoma group became a household name in the pop scene and got a nomination for “Best new art” at the Grammys. “All 4 love” sampled “Patch My Heart” by The Mad Lads (1966) and “Honky Tonk Women” by The Rolling Stones (1969).
Time on top: One week.
Don’t Let the Sun Go Down – George Michael/Elton John
"Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" is a powerful and emotional duet performed by George Michael and Elton John. Originally released by Elton John in 1974. This live version featuring George Michael was released in 1991 after it was performed at the old Webley Stadium in London.
The song expresses a plea to hold onto love and avoid its demise. Their voices intertwine in a moving performance, delivering heartfelt lyrics with soulful passion. The 1974 version of the song peaked at number 2 but this one went one better. It peaked at number one on the 1st of February 1991 making it one of the top songs of 1992.
Although the song kept “I love your smile” by Shanice off the top, it only spent just one week at the peak of the chart before being displaced by a song by Right Said Fred.
Time on top: One week.
I’m Too Sexy – Right Said Fred
"I'm Too Sexy" is a one-hit-wonder song by Right Said Fred. This is a tongue-in-cheek pop dance song that celebrates self-confidence and a sense of exaggerated vanity. The track’s humorous lyrics showed the singer on the runway cat walking and declaring himself the status of a fashion icon. With its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus, "I'm Too Sexy" became an international hit, achieving widespread success and popularity.
The song hit the top of the Billboard Hot 100 on 8th February 1992 making it one of the top songs of 1992. It stopped like of I Love Your Smile by Shanice and “Diamonds And Pearls” by Prince And The N.P.G. from reaching the top spot. However, 3 weeks later it was dethroned by Mr. Big’s song.
Time on top: Three weeks.
To Be With You – Mr. Big
"To Be with You" by Mr. Big, is the first single on the album “Lean Into It.” It is a heartfelt powerful acoustic ballad that expresses the longing for love and companionship. The song showcases acoustic guitars, melodic harmonies, and an easy-to-remember sing-along chorus.
Its lyrics convey a yearning to find someone special and the willingness to do whatever it takes to be together. This is a go-to song when trying to wow a partner no wonder it was a number one song in 1992.
"To Be with You" got to the top of the chart on the 29th of February 1992 making it one of the top songs of 1992 and it stayed there for 3 weeks. History shows that it is one of the few songs to go top on the 29th of February. After 3 weeks at the peak, “To be with you” was pushed down by a song that had been in the top 10 for a number of weeks. It gained significant airplay to get to the top of the charts.
Time on top: Three weeks.
Save the Best for Last – Vanessa Williams
"Save the Best for Last" by Vanessa Williams is a romantic ballad released in 1992. The song captures the essence of hope and enduring love. Vanessa Williams' soulful vocals convey a sense of longing and anticipation, expressing the idea that sometimes the best things in life come to us at the right moment. With its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melodies, "Save the Best for Last" became a chart-topping hit, resonating with listeners and reminding them of the beauty and unpredictability of love's timing.
The former 1984 Miss America contender has 4 top ten hits on the billboard with “Save the Best for Last” being her only number one song. This song dethroned Mr Big’s “To Be With You,” and retained the spot for 5 weeks. It keeps songs like “Tears In Heaven” by Eric Clapton and “Remember The Time” by Michael Jackson off the top spot. “To Be With You” could have spent more time at the top of the chart but two young men took the chart by storm and never looked back.
Time on top: Five weeks.
Jump – Kris Kross
"Jump" by Kris Kross is an infectious hip-hop song released in 1992. The track's upbeat tempo and catchy chorus invite listeners to jump to the music. Kris Kross, who was a teenage rap duo, gained popularity with their unique fashion style which involved wearing their jeans the wrong way round. With its playful raps and energetic beats, the song encapsulates the carefree spirit of the 90s.
This rap song was produced by Jermaine Dupri and sampled “Funky Worm” by Ohio Players and “I Want You Back” by The Jacksons. Jermaine Dupri spotted the kids performing in a shopping mall in Atlanta. They signed on to Ruffhouse Records where they released their debut album “Totally Krossed Out” at the ages of 12 and 13.
“Jump” debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 on April 4th at number 61. It then jumped to number 12, then 3 before finally hitting the top spot in its 4th week on the chart. “Jump” spent 8 weeks at the top making it one of the number one songs in 1992. This was a feat last done by The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” in 1983. “Jump” kept “Under The Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers off the top of the charts which was the group’s best chance of having a number one hit.
Time on top: Eight weeks.
I’ll Be There – Mariah Carey
"I'll Be There" by Mariah Carey is a cover of The Jackson 5's classic hit by the same title. In this song, Mariah Carey showcased her impressive vocal range and emotive delivery. The song expresses unwavering support and unconditional love, it asked for the parties involved to share a pact for the course.
Following her performance of The Jackson’s number one hit song at MTV Unplugged. The song which featured Trey Lorenz on the chorus became popular on the radio and was quickly released as a single making it one of the top songs of 1992.
“I’ll Be There” entered the Billboard Hot 100 at number 13 which was the highest entry for a debut song in 1992. Within 4 weeks, this song was at the summit of the charts, dislodging “Jump”. Mariah Carey would go on to have a number one song in every 90s year except 1994 when “Endless Love” by Luther Vandross & Mariah Carey peaked at number 2 and “Without You/Never Forget You” peaked at number 3.
Time on top: Two weeks.
Baby Got Back – Sir-Mix-A-Lot
"Baby Got Back" by Sir Mix-A-Lot, released in 1992, is a provocative and humorous hip-hop song that rapped about women with “apple” bottoms. Sir Mix-A-Lot celebrates the beauty of curvaceous women. The rapper used this song to challenge what the mainstream’s ideal woman was. Baby Got Back is a single from Sir Mix A Lot’s album “Mac Daddy” (1992).
The video features several diverse women showcasing their butts as an asset in a playful and empowering manner. There weren’t many videos that showed many butts at the time.
The song spent 12 weeks on the chart before hitting the peak in the 13th week. It then dominated the number one spot for 5 weeks straight making the Seattle rapper the only person with a number one song in July 1992. On it’s 18th week on the chart, “Baby Got Back” finally succumbed to pressure from the pop Queen, Madonna.
Time on top: Five weeks.
This Used to Be My Playground – Madonna
On August 8th, 1992, Madonna hit the number one spot on the chart taking over from Sir Mix A Lot’s “Baby Got Back.” The Artist with 12 number one hits and 38 top ten hits released this new single with a new look. “This Used to Be My Playground” is a nostalgic and melancholic ballad by the seasoned and loved artist. The song takes one down memory lane while reflecting on a past love and the sentimental value associated with the past. Madonna's emotive vocals and the song's wistful lyrics capture the bittersweet feeling of reminiscing about lost times.
Madonna wrote and produced this song alongside Shep Pettibone while Alek Keshishian directed the video. This motion picture theme song is from the movie “A League of their own” and the video was shot with a photobook theme which sat well with the lyrics of the song. Unfortunately for Madonna this song only spent one week on top before being bulldozed by the boys from Philly.
Time on top: One week.
End of the Road (From Boomerang)” – Boyz II Men
"End of the Road" by Boyz II Men, was featured in the 1992 romantic comedy film “Boomerang” which featured Eddie Murphy. This soulful R&B ballad scored Boyz II Men their first number one song on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song explores the pain and heartbreak felt from a painful failed relationship, while expressing a yearning for closure and acceptance. Boyz II Men's harmonies and heartfelt vocals bring emotional depth to the track.
"End of the Road" made its debut on the charts on 18 July 1992 at number 53. It then got to the peak of the chart by dislodging “This Used To Be My Playground” by Madonna within a month. The song broke the 11 continuous weeks run at number one held for 36 years held by the iconic Elvis Presley’s “Don’t Be Cruel/Hound Dog”.
This song is responsible for stopping two great songs from reaching the number one spot. The songs are “Baby-Baby-Baby” by TLC which spent 6 weeks on the wings at 2 and “Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough” by Patty Smyth which also spent 6 weeks behind this ballad. The song by The Heights was number 2 for "End of the Road" final week at the top.
Time on top: Thirteen weeks.
How Do You Talk to an Angel – The Heights
"How Do You Talk to an Angel" by The Heights, released in 1992, is a melodic pop-rock ballad. The song explores the yearning and uncertainty of connecting with someone special. The Heights' heartfelt vocals and heartfelt lyrics convey the vulnerability and emotional struggle of expressing feelings. "How Do You Talk to an Angel" gained popularity as the theme song for the television show "The Heights." With its memorable chorus and sentimental tone, the song captivated audiences and climbed the charts to the top.
After spending one week on the wing of “End Of The Road” at number 2, "How Do You Talk to an Angel" pushed it off the top on took the top spot. It spent 2 weeks at the top making it one of the number one songs in 1992. Until another tsunami came and swept it off and that tsunami is Whitney Houston’s song from “The Bodyguard.”
Time on top: Two weeks.
I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston
"I Will Always Love You," performed by Whitney Houston for the 1992 film "The Bodyguard," is a powerful and iconic ballad. Whitney Houston also made her movie debut in this romantic thriller co-starring Kevin Costner.
The song portrays a heartfelt declaration of eternal love and longing for someone who has left. Whitney Houston's extraordinary vocal performance, accompanied by soaring orchestration, creates a deeply emotional experience.
"I Will Always Love You" made its debut at number 40 and moved to the top in 3 weeks stopping at number 12 before taking the pole. This was the last song of the year to hold the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100.
It spent 14 weeks at the top after peaking on 28 November 1992. Also, it achieved the Christmas number one status and ended the year at the top. This song also extended its stay at the top well into 1993 breaking the record for most weeks at number one which was held by Boyz 2 Men.
Time on top: Fourteen weeks (Including some weeks in 1993)
Our final thoughts on Number One Songs in 1992
Due to the chart revamp, 1992 saw the popularity of singles sales. Artists began to target at least 3 singles off their albums and expected them to go multi-platinum alongside album sales.
These number one songs in 1992 are all powerful songs in their respective genre and had a big impact on the music scene. They also managed to prevent several “A-list” songs from reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. We sure hope you have enjoyed this read and would listen to some of the songs if not all of them.
Songs That Didn’t Hit The Top Spot in 1992
Below is a list of songs that made it into the top 5 of the chart. However, these songs never got to sit at the top spot. You might remember some of these top songs in 1992 and wonder how it never made the top spot.
Remember The Time by Michael Jackson
Tears In Heaven by Eric Clapton
Breakin' My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes) by Mint Condition
Make It Happen by Mariah Carey
Masterpiece by Atlantic Starr
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
My Lovin' (You're Never Gonna Get It) by En Vogue
Under The Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers
In The Closet by Michael Jackson
Live And Learn by Joe Public
Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover by Sophie B. Hawkins
If You Asked Me To by Celine Dion
Achy Breaky Heart by Billy Ray Cyrus
Baby-Baby-Baby by TLC
This Used To Be My Playground by Madonna
Just Another Day by Jon Secada
November Rain by Guns N' Roses
Humpin' Around by Bobby Brown
Stay by Shakespear's Sister
Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough by Patty Smyth
Jump Around by House Of Pain
She's Playing Hard To Get by Hi-Five
Erotica by Madonna
I'd Die Without You (From "Boomerang") by P.M. Dawn
If I Ever Fall In Love by Shai
Rump Shaker by Wreckx-N-Effect
In The Still Of The Nite (From "The Jacksons") by Boyz II Men
Rhythm Is A Dancer by Snap!
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