"Top 40"
35-39
45-49
55-59
65-69
75-79
85-89
95-98
Top Singles
Top Waltzes
Top Century
Top Songs of the Century
 
The “Songs of the Century” project, sponsored by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), is a nationwide education initiative intended to promote a better understanding of America’s musical and cultural heritage in our schools. Distributed to schools throughout the country, the “Songs of the Century” curriculum is designed to help further an appreciation for the music development process, including songwriting, musicianship, recording, performing, producing, distributing and the development of cultural values.

“American music has touched everyone’s lives throughout its short history. It’s the perfect educational tool,” said Hilary Rosen, President and CEO of the RIAA. “Our list represents many different genres throughout all parts of the 20th century. And our hope is that each song will help tell a very different story.”

“This project demonstrates that the recording industry takes seriously its role as a caretaker of our nation’s cultural heritage,” stated NEA Chairman Bill Ivey. “This partnership is an important example of industry’s willingness to make positive contributions to the lives and education of our country’s young citizens.”

Official “Songs of the Century” ballots were sent out to music lovers across the country. The hundreds of voters came from all walks of life including local, state and federal elected officials, the music industry, teachers, members of the media and students. Participants were asked to keep in mind the historical significance of not only the song, but also of the record and artist.

Voters identified 365 key recordings. The songs were chosen from a master list of over 1,100 recordings of historical significance. More than 40 reference volumes, several popular music experts and award-winning lists from the RIAA, National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS), Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI), American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), National Association Of Recording Merchandisers (NARM) and other organizations were used in the process. Voters were also able to write-in entries.