69 Years Ago Today: Legendary Singer's Hit Began Seven-Week Run as No. 1 Song in the US

Sixty-nine years ago today, yet another hit from the greatest music artist of his generation began its seven-week run as the No. 1 song in the United States.

The first eight days of July feature several significant dates in the life and career of the legendary Elvis Presley. July 2 was the 60th anniversary of Presley recording two future No. 1 hit songs, "Don't Be Cruel" and "Hound Dog."

Additionally, July 5 was the 72nd anniversary of 'the King of Rock and Roll' recording his debut single, "That's All Right."

1957 was already a special year for Elvis by the time July rolled around. He already had two songs, "Too Much" and "All Shook Up," peak at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. The latter held the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks from April 13 to May 27.

It was on this day, 69 years ago, that Elvis would reclaim the spot for the No. 1 song in the country. The hit, "(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear," reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and held the spot for seven straight weeks.

The song was on the soundtrack for Presley's 1957 film, Loving You, also starring Lizabeth Scott and Wendell Corey. The film's soundtrack featured some of Presley's other hits, including "Loving You" and "Mean Woman Blues."

Elvis Presley Had Four No. 1 Hits in 1957

"(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear" was Presley's third No. 1 hit of 1957, but he still wasn't done dominating the singles charts.

On Oct. 21, "Jailhouse Rock" peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, staying there for seven weeks. The classic hit was written for the 1957 film Jailhouse Rock, starring Presley and Judy Tyler.

"(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear" would go on to be covered by several other music icons, including Barry Frank, Pat Boone, Glen Campbell and Cliff Richard.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jul 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published July 8, 2026 at 4:30 AM.