In just a matter of month’s Drake’s ‘Hotline Bling’ has went on to become one of Drake’s most notable and successful records. Among the controversy of if it did or did not copy D.R.A.M’s infectious hit, ‘Cha Cha,’ ‘Hotline Bling’ still went forth to become an instant favorite of Drake’s fans and naysayers alike. With each week since its release, the record gained momentum with digital sales, airplay, and increased chart position. The final recipe to take the record from the No. 2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, behind The Weeknd’s ‘The Hills,’ was a timely and properly manufactured release of the accompanying visual.
Releasing just last week, the ‘Hotline Bling’ visual found itself being exclusive to Apple Music. With Twitter exploding with jokes, memes, and appreciation for the video, many expected that it was inevitable that the video would fulfill Drake’s wish of receiving his first solo No. 1 record during the month of October. It appears that the exclusive nature of Apple Music was the key reason why the song failed to reach the top spot as all uploads of the video were removed from YouTube, which therefore minimized just how many people would be able view it. While enough streams could have been achieved via Apple Music, there is also a possibility that the views were not reported, which would also cause the record to be stagnant at the No. 2 spot. With YouTube being a major factor in streaming and chart position, and Apple holding on to the exclusive for the remainder of the tracking week, it appears that Drake has missed his final chance at the top spot with the record as Adele’s Hello is shaping up to immediately top the charts next week upon its debut. With Views From The 6 on the horizon, there’s always another chance to meet the Hot 100’s peak. Take a look at the current top 10 singles in the country, here.
