There's an elusive alchemy to crafting a hit song. One must find the right blend of trendy sounds, distinctive artistry and cultural buzz—and then hope for a little bit of luck (or payola) to take it the top of the charts. All those elements came together in perfect unison for the Black Eyed Peas in 2009, when "I Gotta Feeling" spent an astounding 14 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the first song to sell over 7 million digital downloads in the process. How?, one may be inclined to wonder upon reflection. "Feeling" is certainly no work of pop genius, despite its liberal appropriation of Bar Mitzvah vernacular. But when has that ever been a problem for mainstream audiences? Following the explosive success of Lady Gaga, as well as BEP's impressive 12-week run at #1 with "Boom Boom Pow" just prior, their dance-pop party anthem was naturally poised to be the soundtrack of the summer (and beyond). Besides, in the dark, this throwaway B-level debauchery becomes an A-worthy exaltation of those cherished hazy memories.
Three years ago this week, "I Gotta Feeling" was the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100.
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