Overview
“Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X (featuring Billy Ray Cyrus on the remix) became the longest-running #1 song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 19 weeks, breaking the record held by Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men’s “One Sweet Day” and Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee’s “Despacito” (both 16 weeks).
Viral Origin & Controversy
The song went viral on TikTok via the “Yeehaw Challenge” in early 2019. Billboard controversially removed it from the Hot Country Songs chart, deeming it not country enough — sparking debates about race, genre gatekeeping, and what defines country music. Billy Ray Cyrus’ remix feature legitimized the track.
Cultural Impact
The song sampled Nine Inch Nails’ “34 Ghosts IV” and blended trap beats with country aesthetics. It spawned multiple remixes featuring Young Thug, Mason Ramsey, and Diplo. Lil Nas X came out as gay during the song’s chart reign, becoming the first artist to do so while having a #1 song. The song won two Grammys and sold 18 million units.