Hooray more 1981 nostalgia for me! 🥰 Kim Carnes very much an iconic track so a long run on top is justified, I reckon! I think Ottawan doing about as well in my charts of the time too. Good climb for One Day In Your Life, and Elton too. Of the new entries, Elvira was a catchy tune, but never charted in the UK, and Marty Balin's track I dont remember but I have an inkling he was in Starship or a band like that. Playing it now, it's quite laid-back. Nice.

George Harrison at 2, yay! 🥰 Neil Diamond doing well with his movie song, I think it was. One Day In Your Life leaping too, still a classic to me, and you are still 40 years ahead of the love for Hall & Oates' as it nears the top 10. Modern Girl popping in, I still like that pop tune from Sheena, Kenny Rogers' I Don't Need You showing just how much my charts were based around the UK singles chart of the time, and whatever Radio One played, as this is another I dont remember. Another mellow pleasant tune.

Believe It Or Not I do remember though, I think we got the TV series eventually, and I liked the track, though not a UK hit it was huge in the States. Chequered Love I loved, Kim showing she was here to stay. Banger. I was playing her latest album in the car only today, still got it! ❤️

great charts!!

On 29/04/2025 at 15:23, Popchartfreak said:

Hooray more 1981 nostalgia for me! 🥰 Kim Carnes very much an iconic track so a long run on top is justified, I reckon! I think Ottawan doing about as well in my charts of the time too. Good climb for One Day In Your Life, and Elton too. Of the new entries, Elvira was a catchy tune, but never charted in the UK, and Marty Balin's track I dont remember but I have an inkling he was in Starship or a band like that. Playing it now, it's quite laid-back. Nice.

George Harrison at 2, yay! 🥰 Neil Diamond doing well with his movie song, I think it was. One Day In Your Life leaping too, still a classic to me, and you are still 40 years ahead of the love for Hall & Oates' as it nears the top 10. Modern Girl popping in, I still like that pop tune from Sheena, Kenny Rogers' I Don't Need You showing just how much my charts were based around the UK singles chart of the time, and whatever Radio One played, as this is another I dont remember. Another mellow pleasant tune.

Believe It Or Not I do remember though, I think we got the TV series eventually, and I liked the track, though not a UK hit it was huge in the States. Chequered Love I loved, Kim showing she was here to stay. Banger. I was playing her latest album in the car only today, still got it! ❤️

great charts!!

Thank you so much, John! 😊 I always love reading your reflections—they bring such warmth and perspective to these retro charts. Totally agree on Kim Carnes—Bette Davis Eyes really owned the moment, and still sounds so haunting and unique today. Ottawan were such a fun pop presence too—instant earworms every time!

Marty Balin was indeed from Jefferson Airplane/Starship, so great spot! "Hearts" has that dreamy, soft rock vibe that was everywhere in '81—nice to know it made an impression. And yes, Believe It Or Not is one of those sleeper nostalgia bombs—instantly takes me back. Glad to hear you were spinning some Kim Wilde in the car too—she's timeless! 🚗💿

Appreciate your enthusiasm—it's always lovely to time travel together through the charts! 🥰 Got a favorite from this batch you'd crown as #1 yourself?

aww thanks Sergej, I'm loving your charts - I dont think Ive ever seen original personal charts of that era apart from mine!🥰

My fave track of all from the most-recent top 40 is a tough call! Phil Collins and Kim Carnes peaked at 2 for me, at the time, but both have aged like fine wines and sound even better as they got older. George Harrison topped my chart but it was a grief thing for John Lennon and to have the 3 Beatles together agin, and ditto Roxy's Jealous Guy. Both are lovely but not in the same league as Kim and Phil. That leaves fade To Grey and One Day In Your Life. I love the arrangement in Michael's dreamy romantic ballad, but as it's really 1975 I will discount it.

So it's a tough split between In The Air Tonight, Bette Davis Eyes and Fade To Grey... and I think Visage has the edge!

On 29/04/2025 at 15:23, Popchartfreak said:

Hooray more 1981 nostalgia for me! 🥰 Kim Carnes very much an iconic track so a long run on top is justified, I reckon! I think Ottawan doing about as well in my charts of the time too. Good climb for One Day In Your Life, and Elton too. Of the new entries, Elvira was a catchy tune, but never charted in the UK, and Marty Balin's track I dont remember but I have an inkling he was in Starship or a band like that. Playing it now, it's quite laid-back. Nice.

George Harrison at 2, yay! 🥰 Neil Diamond doing well with his movie song, I think it was. One Day In Your Life leaping too, still a classic to me, and you are still 40 years ahead of the love for Hall & Oates' as it nears the top 10. Modern Girl popping in, I still like that pop tune from Sheena, Kenny Rogers' I Don't Need You showing just how much my charts were based around the UK singles chart of the time, and whatever Radio One played, as this is another I dont remember. Another mellow pleasant tune.

Believe It Or Not I do remember though, I think we got the TV series eventually, and I liked the track, though not a UK hit it was huge in the States. Chequered Love I loved, Kim showing she was here to stay. Banger. I was playing her latest album in the car only today, still got it! ❤️

great charts!!

Aw, thank you so much, John! That means a lot coming from someone who's been charting since the actual era — it’s such a privilege to have your insights alongside mine! 🥰 You're right, it is rare to see original personal charts from back then, so having yours as a reference point makes this whole nostalgic journey feel even richer.

Your breakdown of your favourites is brilliant — I love how you weigh them not just by memory but by how they’ve aged. I totally get the emotional weight behind George’s track too; the sense of closure and grief wrapped up in that song is so powerful. And yes, Roxy’s “Jealous Guy” was such a heartfelt tribute, but I agree — musically, Kim and Phil have this timeless quality that just keeps shining brighter.

“Fade to Grey” taking the crown is a fantastic choice — that icy synth elegance still feels futuristic even now. And what a trio to be choosing from — Kim, Phil, and Visage really capture the breadth of the early ‘80s so well. I absolutely love that we both appreciate how these songs have grown with time.

Thanks again for sharing your thoughts — it’s always such a joy to read them! 🎶💫

Sergej's Personal Chart Highlights – June 26, 1981

🎯 Top of the Chart

• Kim Carnes reigns supreme for a 7th consecutive week with “Bette Davis Eyes”, maintaining her grip on the #1 spot and showing no signs of slowing down.

• George Harrison remains steady at #2 with his heartfelt tribute “All Those Years Ago”, still challenging but not quite overtaking Kim.

• The disco nostalgia of Stars On 45 holds strong at #3, completing a static Top 3.

📈 Biggest Climbers

• Joey Scarbury makes a heroic leap, soaring 20 spots to #19 with “Theme From 'Greatest American Hero' (Believe It Or Not)” – the week’s biggest mover!

• Kim Wilde scores her second hit in the Top 40 as “Chequered Love” jumps 18 places to #22, joining “Kids In America” at #18.

• Kenny Rogers gains traction with “I Don’t Need You”, climbing 14 spots to #24.

• Marty Balin continues his upward journey as “Hearts” rises 9 spots to #20.

📉 Biggest Fallers

• After peaking high, Neil Diamond's “America” drops 9 positions to #13.

• Smokey Robinson slips 11 places to #25 with “Being With You”.

• Juice Newton's former hit “Angel of the Morning” falls to #39, down 9.

🚀 Hot Entries

Six fresh debuts shake up the chart:

• Adam and the Ants crash in at #26 with the punchy “Stand and Deliver”

• Juice Newton is back again with a brand-new entry “Queen Of Hearts” at #32

• The Moody Blues return to the Top 40 with their newest hit “Gemini Dream” at #35

• Bob Marley & The Wailers make a soulful debut at #37 with “No Woman No Cry”

• The Manhattan Transfer groove into #38 with “Boy From New York City”

• The Alan Parsons Project round out the chart at #40 with the haunting “Time”

💥 On the Rise

• Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl” cracks the Top 10 for the first time, jumping 6 spots to #10.

• Daryl Hall & John Oates continue their slow-burn climb with “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” now at #8.

• Air Supply rises into the Top 5 with “The One That You Love”, up 4 places to #4!

1) Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes (=)

2) George Harrison - All Those Years Ago (=)

3) Stars On 45 - Stars On 45 (=)

4) Air Supply - The One That You Love (+4)

5) Ottawan - Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart) (+1)

6) Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight (=)

7) Michael Jackson - One Day In Your Life (+2)

8) Daryl Hall & John Oates - You Make My Dreams (Come True) (+3)

9) A Taste Of Honey - Sukiyaki (-2)

10) Rick Springfield - Jessie's Girl (+6)

11) Ray Parker, Jr. & Raydio - A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do) (-1)

12) Shakin' Stevens - This Ole House (=)

13) Neil Diamond - America (-9)

14) Gary U.S. Bonds - This Little Girl (+1)

15) Santana - Winning (+5)

16) Bucks Fizz - Making Your Mind Up (-3)

17) The Oak Ridge Boys - Elvira (+6)

18) Kim Wilde - Kids In America (-1)

19) Joey Scarbury - Theme From "Greatest American Hero" (Believe It Or Not) (+20)

20) Marty Balin - Hearts (+9)

21) Lee Ritenour - Is It You (=)

22) Kim Wilde - Chequered Love (+18)

23) Climax Blues Band - I Love You (-5)

24) Kenny Rogers - I Don't Need You (+14)

25) Smokey Robinson - Being With You (-11)

26) Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver (debut)

27) Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers - The Waiting (-8)

28) Dottie West & Kenny Rogers - What Are We Doin' In Love (-4)

29) Elton John - Nobody Wins (-3)

30) Sheena Easton - Modern Girl (+4)

31) REO Speedwagon - Take It On The Run (-6)

32) Juice Newton - Queen Of Hearts (debut)

33) Ultravox - Vienna (-5)

34) Roxy Music - Jealous Guy (-2)

35) The Moody Blues - Gemini Dream (debut)

36) Visage - Fade To Grey (-3)

37) Bob Marley & The Wailers - No Woman No Cry (debut)

38) The Manhattan Transfer - Boy From New York City (debut)

39) Juice Newton - Angel Of The Morning (-9)

40) The Alan Parsons Project - Time (debut)

On 05/06/2025 at 07:39, Sergej said:

Aw, thank you so much, John! That means a lot coming from someone who's been charting since the actual era — it’s such a privilege to have your insights alongside mine! 🥰 You're right, it is rare to see original personal charts from back then, so having yours as a reference point makes this whole nostalgic journey feel even richer.

Your breakdown of your favourites is brilliant — I love how you weigh them not just by memory but by how they’ve aged. I totally get the emotional weight behind George’s track too; the sense of closure and grief wrapped up in that song is so powerful. And yes, Roxy’s “Jealous Guy” was such a heartfelt tribute, but I agree — musically, Kim and Phil have this timeless quality that just keeps shining brighter.

“Fade to Grey” taking the crown is a fantastic choice — that icy synth elegance still feels futuristic even now. And what a trio to be choosing from — Kim, Phil, and Visage really capture the breadth of the early ‘80s so well. I absolutely love that we both appreciate how these songs have grown with time.

Thanks again for sharing your thoughts — it’s always such a joy to read them! 🎶💫

Oh my pleasure Sergej! One of the great joys in life is getting excited with people talking about music you mutually love, old or new. It's also fascinating how some records never date and others do!

7 weeks for Kim Carnes on top, I wish she'd grabbed a week on top in my charts too! She still might if an advert or film features it! A great new entry for Stand & Deliver, that was Adam's one and only chart-topper for me, I remember buying the single when it came out and the great video which I recorded and played a lot. Queen Of Hearts is a nice version of the Dave Edmunds UK hit, so it was nice to see that chart in the USA for Juice.

Gemini Dream was a good later Moody Blues hit, one I bought too, and I only recently bought Justin's Life In A Northern Town, hooray! Fab to see No Woman No Cry back, Bob's greatest record, maybe, and a huge loss he passed away so young and still with so much to offer. I remember that version of Boy From New York City, pretty sure I also charted it, and Alan Parsons Project might also fit into that category, though I can't think of them these days without thinking of Mike Meyers Austin Powers references 😄

fab chart!

Great to see the arrival of 'Stand and Deliver'!

I got through quite a lot of artist discographies during lockdown, including a big Adam and the Ants fixation and 'Stand and Deliver' is my favourite of theirs, even if Kings of the Wild Frontier is the best of their three albums for me. The video stands out a lot too in those early MTV years.

On 08/06/2025 at 15:50, Popchartfreak said:

Oh my pleasure Sergej! One of the great joys in life is getting excited with people talking about music you mutually love, old or new. It's also fascinating how some records never date and others do!

7 weeks for Kim Carnes on top, I wish she'd grabbed a week on top in my charts too! She still might if an advert or film features it! A great new entry for Stand & Deliver, that was Adam's one and only chart-topper for me, I remember buying the single when it came out and the great video which I recorded and played a lot. Queen Of Hearts is a nice version of the Dave Edmunds UK hit, so it was nice to see that chart in the USA for Juice.

Gemini Dream was a good later Moody Blues hit, one I bought too, and I only recently bought Justin's Life In A Northern Town, hooray! Fab to see No Woman No Cry back, Bob's greatest record, maybe, and a huge loss he passed away so young and still with so much to offer. I remember that version of Boy From New York City, pretty sure I also charted it, and Alan Parsons Project might also fit into that category, though I can't think of them these days without thinking of Mike Meyers Austin Powers references 😄

fab chart!

Thank you so much, John! 😊 You're absolutely right—there's something incredibly special about sharing musical excitement with someone who really gets it. It makes the listening experience feel even more alive!

Kim Carnes truly owned those 7 weeks—Bette Davis Eyes just had that perfect blend of cool, mystery, and 80s synth magic. Fingers crossed she gets a resurgence moment on your chart someday—ads and soundtracks have revived many classics before!

Love that Stand & Deliver was your Adam chart-topper! Such a bold, unforgettable track (and video!), and it still packs a punch today. Glad you appreciated Queen Of Hearts too—it’s always fun when different versions of a song find success in different places.

And yes, No Woman No Cry just hits differently. Bob Marley’s legacy continues to be such a powerful force.

Always a pleasure chatting with you!

On 08/06/2025 at 15:59, Jade said:

Great to see the arrival of 'Stand and Deliver'!

I got through quite a lot of artist discographies during lockdown, including a big Adam and the Ants fixation and 'Stand and Deliver' is my favourite of theirs, even if Kings of the Wild Frontier is the best of their three albums for me. The video stands out a lot too in those early MTV years.

Hey Jade! 😊

That's awesome to hear! Lockdown definitely gave us all time to deep-dive into some great discographies, and Adam and the Ants are such a fun one to explore. ‘Stand and Deliver’ is such a standout—so bold and theatrical, and that video is absolutely iconic! Totally agree about Kings of the Wild Frontier being their best album overall, but there’s just something irresistible about the swagger of Stand and Deliver.

Glad we share the love for it! 🏴‍☠️🎸

Thank you both for your comments, take care!

Sergej's Personal Chart Highlights – July 3, 1981

🎯 Top of the Chart

• Kim Carnes is unshakable at #1 for an incredible 8th week with “Bette Davis Eyes”, firmly holding onto the crown of the summer.

• Air Supply climb to #2 with the soaring ballad “The One That You Love”, matching the peak of "All Out Of Love" and now eyeing that top spot.

• Daryl Hall & John Oates also make a major move into the Top 3, leaping 5 spots to #3 with the irresistible “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” — a true summer jam in the making.

📈 Biggest Climbers

• Bob Marley & The Wailers surge up 16 places to #21 with “No Woman No Cry”, making one of the week’s strongest jumps.

• Kim Wilde’s second hit “Chequered Love” continues its impressive ascent, up 8 spots to #14, while “Kids in America” still holds in the Top 20.

• Adam and the Ants march forward to #18 with “Stand and Deliver”, climbing 8 as their unique flair resonates.

• Kenny Rogers rises 9 places to #15 with the heartfelt “I Don’t Need You”.

🚀 New Entries

• The Pointer Sisters debut at #25 with their seductive slow burner “Slow Hand”.

• Jim Photoglo enters at #34 with the heartfelt “Fool In Love With You”.

• Rosanne Cash makes her first chart appearance at #35 with “Seven Year Ache”.

• Commodores light up the chart with the funky “Lady (You Bring Me Up)”, new at #36.

📉 Biggest Fallers

• Santana stumbles 16 spots to #31 with “Winning”, marking the week’s steepest drop.

• A Taste Of Honey lose flavor this week as “Sukiyaki” slides down 11 places to #20.

• Smokey Robinson takes a hard tumble, dropping 14 spots to #39 with “Being With You”.

• Neil Diamond also dips sharply, down 9 places to #22.

💥 Top 10 Highlights

• Michael Jackson climbs into the Top 5 with “One Day In Your Life” at #4 — getting yet another top 5 hit for the legend himself.

• Rick Springfield continues to rise, now at #9 with “Jessie’s Girl”, his first top 10 hit, now possibly headed for the Top 5.

• The Oak Ridge Boys charge into the Top 10 with “Elvira”, leaping 7 spots to #10, bringing country flavor into the pop spotlight.

1) Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes (=)

2) Air Supply - The One That You Love (+2)

3) Daryl Hall & John Oates - You Make My Dreams (Come True) (+5)

4) Michael Jackson - One Day In Your Life (+3)

5) Stars On 45 - Stars On 45 (-2)

6) George Harrison - All Those Years Ago (-4)

7) Ottawan - Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart) (-2)

8) Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight (-2)

9) Rick Springfield - Jessie's Girl (+1)

10) The Oak Ridge Boys - Elvira (+7)

11) Shakin' Stevens - This Ole House (+1)

12) Gary U.S. Bonds - This Little Girl (+2)

13) Joey Scarbury - Theme From "Greatest American Hero" (Believe It Or Not) (+6)

14) Kim Wilde - Chequered Love (+8)

15) Kenny Rogers - I Don't Need You (+9)

16) Ray Parker, Jr. & Raydio - A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do) (-5)

17) Marty Balin - Hearts (+3)

18) Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver (+8)

19) Kim Wilde - Kids In America (-1)

20) A Taste Of Honey - Sukiyaki (-11)

21) Bob Marley & The Wailers - No Woman No Cry (+16)

22) Neil Diamond - America (-9)

23) Climax Blues Band - I Love You (=)

24) Bucks Fizz - Making Your Mind Up (-8)

25) The Pointer Sisters - Slow Hand (debut)

26) Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers - The Waiting (+1)

27) Juice Newton - Queen Of Hearts (+5)

28) Lee Ritenour - Is It You (-7)

29) The Manhattan Transfer - Boy From New York City (+9)

30) Dottie West & Kenny Rogers - What Are We Doin' In Love (-2)

31) Santana - Winning (-16)

32) The Moody Blues - Gemini Dream (+3)

33) Sheena Easton - Modern Girl (-3)

34) Jim Photoglo - Fool In Love With You (debut)

35) Rosanne Cash - Seven Year Ache (debut)

36) Commodores - Lady (You Bring Me Up) (debut)

37) The Alan Parsons Project - Time (+3)

38) Ultravox - Vienna (-5)

39) Smokey Robinson - Being With You (-14)

40) Roxy Music - Jealous Guy (-6)

No shifting Bette davis Eyes yet! Will Michael's oldie get on top from 4? Still love it. Interesting to see a fair sprinkling of country tracks in the chart, the UK seemed a bit more resistant in 1981, though rockabilly was big. Kim & Adam making nice strides 🥰Slow Hand a nice high entry, I alwasy liked that, I'd been aware of the Pointer Sisters for almost a decade, so it was nice to see them getting more consistent breakthroughs in Europe. The Commodores I also charted but the Roseanne Cash and Jim Photoglo singles are unknown to me! When I get round to reviewing the 80's I will be using your chart to revamp my charts to include stuff I dont know so thanks in advance 😄

On 30/06/2025 at 11:59, Popchartfreak said:

No shifting Bette davis Eyes yet! Will Michael's oldie get on top from 4? Still love it. Interesting to see a fair sprinkling of country tracks in the chart, the UK seemed a bit more resistant in 1981, though rockabilly was big. Kim & Adam making nice strides 🥰Slow Hand a nice high entry, I alwasy liked that, I'd been aware of the Pointer Sisters for almost a decade, so it was nice to see them getting more consistent breakthroughs in Europe. The Commodores I also charted but the Roseanne Cash and Jim Photoglo singles are unknown to me! When I get round to reviewing the 80's I will be using your chart to revamp my charts to include stuff I dont know so thanks in advance 😄

Hi John! 😊

Yes, Bette Davis Eyes is proving stubborn at the top for now, but Michael’s oldie is still in with a strong chance from #4! The country sprinkling surprised me as well; definitely more of a US chart flavour than what the UK embraced back in ’81, though as you said, rockabilly had its moment here. Glad Kim & Adam’s climb caught your eye – they’ve been such a joy to see moving up. Slow Hand really is a lovely one; I think it’s one of the Pointer Sisters’ smoothest and most enduring hits. And yes, the Commodores’ run is always a treat. I’m curious what you’ll make of the Rosanne Cash and Jim Photoglo tracks when you give them a listen – they might end up being fun discoveries for your 80s revamp! 😄

Thank you for your comment and take care.

Sergej's Personal Chart Highlights – July 10, 1981

👑 New Number One!

• Daryl Hall & John Oates hit the summit for the first time as “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” jumps 2–1, becoming the new chart-topper and signaling a clear shift toward bright, upbeat pop in the summer of 1981.

• Air Supply hold strong at #2 with “The One That You Love”, still very much in contention.

• After an incredible reign, Kim Carnes slips to #3 with “Bette Davis Eyes”, ending its dominance but remaining a major presence.

🔥 Top 10 Momentum

• Rick Springfield continues his climb with “Jessie’s Girl”, now at #7, edging closer to the Top 5.

• Kim Wilde scores a major breakthrough as “Chequered Love” surges into the Top 10 at #10, giving her a defining hit moment.

• The Oak Ridge Boys keep the country-pop crossover alive as “Elvira” rises to #9.

📈 Biggest Climbers

• Bob Marley & The Wailers continue their powerful rise, climbing 8 spots to #13 with “No Woman, No Cry”.

• Santana rebounds strongly as “Winning” jumps 9 places to #22.

• The Moody Blues also gain momentum, up 6 to #26 with “Gemini Dream”.

🎶 Notable Moves & Breakthroughs

• The Pointer Sisters keep climbing with “Slow Hand”, up 6 to #19.

• Joey Scarsbury edges higher to #11, with “Theme From ‘Greatest American Hero’” still riding strong chart energy.

• Kim Wilde now has both momentum and staying power, with one Top 10 hit and continued presence lower down the chart.

🆕 New Entries & Returns

• Italian pop arrives as Ricchi & Poveri debut at #34 with the infectious “Sarà Perché Ti Amo”.

• Carpenters return with soft-pop elegance as “Touch Me When We’re Dancing” enters at #38.

• Stanley Clarke & George Duke debut at #40 with the smooth “Sweet Baby”.

• The Jacksons make a notable re-entry at #39 with “Can You Feel It”.

📉 Sliding Down

• Phil Collins suffers the week’s biggest drop, plunging 12 places to #20 with “In The Air Tonight”.

• A Taste Of Honey continues its fall as “Sukiyaki” drops to #32.

• Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers slip 9 spots to #35 with “The Waiting”.

• Climax Blues Band falls out of the Top 30, down to #31.

1) Daryl Hall & John Oates - You Make My Dreams (Come True) (+2)

2) Air Supply - The One That You Love (=)

3) Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes (-2)

4) Michael Jackson - One Day In Your Life (=)

5) Stars On 45 - Stars On 45 (=)

6) George Harrison - All Those Years Ago (=)

7) Rick Springfield - Jessie's Girl (+2)

8) Ottawan - Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart) (-1)

9) The Oak Ridge Boys - Elvira (+1)

10) Kim Wilde - Chequered Love (+4)

11) Joey Scarsbury - Theme From "Greatest American Hero" (Believe It Or Not) (+2)

12) Shakin' Stevens - This Ole House (-1)

13) Bob Marley & The Wailers - No Woman, No Cry (+8)

14) Kenny Rogers - I Don't Need You (+1)

15) Ray Parker Jr. & Raydio - A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do) (+1)

16) Gary U.S. Bonds - This Little Girl (-4)

17) Marty Balin - Hearts (=)

18) Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver (=)

19) The Pointer Sisters - Slow Hand (+6)

20) Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight (-12)

21) Neil Diamond - America (+1)

22) Santana - Winning (+9)

23) Kim Wilde - Kids In America (-4)

24) The Manhattan Transfer - Boy From New York City (+5)

25) Sheena Easton - Modern Girl (+8)

26) The Moody Blues - Gemini Dream (+6)

27) Lee Ritenour - Is It You (+1)

28) Bucks Fizz - Making Your Mind Up (-4)

29) Juice Newton - Queen Of Hearts (-2)

30) The Alan Parsons Project - Time (+6)

31) Climax Blues Band - I Love You (-8)

32) A Taste Of Honey - Sukiyaki (-10)

33) Jim Photoglo - Fool In Love With You (+1)

34) Ricchi & Poveri - Sarà Perché Ti Amo (debut)

35) Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers - The Waiting (-9)

36) Rosanne Cash - Seven Year Ache (-1)

37) Dottie West & Kenny Rogers - What Are We Doin' In Love (-7)

38) Carpenters - Touch Me When We're Dancing (debut)

39) The Jacksons - Can You Feel It (Re-Entry)

40) Stanley Clarke & George Duke - Sweet Baby (debut)

Sergej's Personal Chart Highlights – July 17, 1981

👑 A New King at Number One

• Michael Jackson rises to the very top as “One Day In Your Life” jumps 3–1, becoming the new #1 single and marking a major emotional peak in this chart’s summer storyline. It also becomes MJ's fourth #1 in his solo career.

• Kim Carnes rebounds strongly to #2 with “Bette Davis Eyes”, proving its longevity even after losing the crown.

• Air Supply remain rock-solid at #3, with “The One That You Love” continuing its impressive staying power.

• Last week’s chart-topper Daryl Hall & John Oates slip to #4, but “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” remains a defining hit of the season.

🔥 Top 10 Shifts & Breakthroughs

• Rick Springfield breaks into the Top 5 as “Jessie’s Girl” climbs to #5, now firmly established as a smash.

• Joey Scarbury keeps flying higher, leaping 5 spots to #6 with “Theme From ‘Greatest American Hero’”, closing in on the Top 5.

• Adam and the Ants score a major breakthrough as “Stand and Deliver” rockets 9 places into the Top 10 at #9.

• Kim Wilde holds steady at #10 with “Chequered Love”, giving her a sustained Top 10 presence.

📈 Biggest Climbers

• The Alan Parsons Project make a huge move as “Time” jumps 11 spots to #18, one of the week’s most impressive climbs.

• The Manhattan Transfer surge 9 places to #15 with “Boy From New York City”, riding strong momentum.

• Stanley Clarke & George Duke climb 9 to #31 with “Sweet Baby”.

• The Pointer Sisters continue their steady rise, up 6 to #13 with “Slow Hand”.

📉 Biggest Fallers

• Shakin’ Stevens takes the steepest drop of the week as “This Ole House” plunges 14 places to #26.

• Ottawan slide 8 spots to #16 with “Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart)”.

• Bucks Fizz fall sharply to #38, down 10 with “Making Your Mind Up”.

• Climax Blues Band continue their exit trajectory, slipping to #40.

🆕 New Entries

• Shakin’ Stevens returns with a brand-new hit as “You Drive Me Crazy” debuts at #20.

• ABBA make a stylish entrance at #30 with “Lay All Your Love On Me”, adding disco polish to the chart.

• REO Speedwagon debut at #37 with the rock-driven “Don’t Let Him Go”.

🎶 Notable Movements

• Bob Marley & The Wailers ease back slightly to #17, but “No Woman, No Cry” remains a standout classic.

• Phil Collins continues to slide, now at #22 with “In The Air Tonight”.

• Kim Wilde maintains a double presence, with “Kids In America” still hanging on at #24.

1) Michael Jackson - One Day In Your Life (+3)

2) Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes (+1)

3) Air Supply - The One That You Love (=)

4) Daryl Hall & John Oates - You Make My Dreams (Come True) (-3)

5) Rick Springfield - Jessie's Girl (+2)

6) Joey Scarsbury - Theme From "Greatest American Hero" (Believe It Or Not) (+5)

7) George Harrison - All Those Years Ago (-1)

8) Stars On 45 - Stars On 45 (-3)

9) Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver (+9)

10) Kim Wilde - Chequered Love (=)

11) Kenny Rogers - I Don't Need You (+3)

12) The Oak Ridge Boys - Elvira (-3)

13) The Pointer Sisters - Slow Hand (+6)

14) Marty Balin - Hearts (+3)

15) The Manhattan Transfer - Boy From New York City (+9)

16) Ottawan - Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart) (-8)

17) Bob Marley & The Wailers - No Woman, No Cry (-4)

18) The Alan Parsons Project - Time (+11)

19) Ray Parker Jr. & Raydio - A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do) (-4)

20) Shakin' Stevens - You Drive Me Crazy (debut)

21) The Moody Blues - Gemini Dream (+5)

22) Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight (-4)

23) Gary U.S. Bonds - This Little Girl (-7)

24) Kim Wilde - Kids In America (-1)

25) Neil Diamond - America (-4)

26) Shakin' Stevens - This Ole House (-14)

27) Juice Newton - Queen Of Hearts (+2)

28) Santana - Winning (-6)

29) Sheena Easton - Modern Girl (-4)

30) ABBA - Lay All Your Love On Me (debut)

31) Stanley Clarke & George Duke - Sweet Baby (+9)

32) Ricchi & Poveri - Sarà Perché Ti Amo (+2)

33) Carpenters - Touch Me When You're Dancing (+5)

34) Lee Ritenour - Is It You (-7)

35) Rosanne Cash - Seven Year Ache (+1)

36) A Taste Of Honey - Sukiyaki (-4)

37) REO Speedwagon - Don't Let Him Go (debut)

38) Bucks Fizz - Making Your Mind Up (-10)

39) Jim Photoglo - Fool In Love With You (-6)

40) Climax Blues Band - I Love You (-9)

My # 1 : Sue Wilkinson - Women Only

Great to see MJ on top, that did the same for me, and many many classics here, a lot of them not UK hits so its great seeing stuff like Carpenters, Moody Blues, Hall & Oates, Alan Parsons, Oak Ridge Boys doing well. Abba obv a classic number one for me, and KIm Wilde not far behind! I dont know the Santana track, nor Jim Photoglo and a handful of others so look forward one day to revisiting this era. 🤩

5 hours ago, Popchartfreak said:

Great to see MJ on top, that did the same for me, and many many classics here, a lot of them not UK hits so its great seeing stuff like Carpenters, Moody Blues, Hall & Oates, Alan Parsons, Oak Ridge Boys doing well. Abba obv a classic number one for me, and KIm Wilde not far behind! I dont know the Santana track, nor Jim Photoglo and a handful of others so look forward one day to revisiting this era. 🤩

Glad that you like many songs on here, 1981 is a very unique year.

I may do it like my current charts and post the new entry in videos.

Sergej's Personal Chart Highlights – July 24, 1981

👑 New Number One!

• Rick Springfield storms to the top as “Jessie’s Girl” jumps 4–1, becoming the newest #1 hit and confirming its status as the breakout rock anthem of the summer in 1981.

• Daryl Hall & John Oates rebound strongly to #2, with “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” once again pressing for the crown.

• Air Supply hold firm at #3, showing remarkable consistency with “The One That You Love”.

• Last week’s chart-topper Michael Jackson slides to #4, while Kim Carnes continues her gradual descent to #5 after her long reign.

🔥 Top 10 Action

• The Oak Ridge Boys make a huge move into the Top 10, climbing 6 spots to #6 with “Elvira”, becoming one of the chart’s strongest crossover hits.

• Kim Wilde continues her hot streak as “Chequered Love” rises to #7, giving her a sustained Top 10 presence.

• The Pointer Sisters push higher with “Slow Hand”, now at #8 after a 5-place jump.

• Joey Scarbury and Stars On 45 both edge downward but remain Top 10 staples.

📈 Biggest Climbers

• ABBA make a major leap as “Lay All Your Love On Me” rockets 10 places to #20, marking one of the week’s standout moves.

• Phil Collins rebounds strongly, climbing 7 spots to #15 with “In The Air Tonight”.

• Shakin’ Stevens keeps momentum going as “You Drive Me Crazy” rises 7 to #13.

• Sheena Easton continues her upward run, up 4 to #25 with “Modern Girl”.

📉 Biggest Fallers

• George Harrison takes the sharpest drop of the week, tumbling 11 places to #18 with “All Those Years Ago”.

• Ray Parker Jr. & Raydio slide 8 to #27.

• Neil Diamond continues to fade, down 9 to #34 with “America”.

🆕 New Entries & Returns

• Ronnie Milsap debuts at #28 with the smooth country-pop hit (There’s) No Gettin’ Over Me.

• One of 1981’s biggest love ballads arrives as Diana Ross & Lionel Richie enter at #30 with “Endless Love”.

• Billy Squier brings rock edge with “The Stroke”, debuting at #33.

• John Schneider enters at #39 with “It’s Now Or Never”.

• The Jacksons make a re-entry at #40 with “Can You Feel It”.

🎶 Notable Notes

• Kim Wilde remains a double presence, with “Kids In America” holding at #24 alongside her Top 10 hit.

• The chart balances rock, pop, disco, and country more evenly than ever, signaling a dynamic and transitional moment in the summer 1981 charts.

1) Rick Springfield - Jessie's Girl (+4)

2) Daryl Hall & John Oates - You Make My Dreams (Come True) (+2)

3) Air Supply - The One That You Love (=)

4) Michael Jackson - One Day In Your Life (-3)

5) Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes (-3)

6) The Oak Ridge Boys - Elvira (+6)

7) Kim Wilde - Chequered Love (+3)

8) The Pointer Sisters - Slow Hand (+5)

9) Joey Scarsbury - Theme From "Greatest American Hero" (Believe It Or Not) (-3)

10) Stars On 45 - Stars On 45 (-2)

11) Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver (-2)

12) Kenny Rogers - I Don't Need You (-1)

13) Shakin' Stevens - You Drive Me Crazy (+7)

14) Marty Balin - Hearts (=)

15) Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight (+7)

16) The Manhattan Transfer - Boy From New York City (-1)

17) Ottawan - Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart) (-1)

18) George Harrison - All Those Years Ago (-11)

19) The Alan Parsons Project - Time (-1)

20) ABBA - Lay All Your Love On Me (+10)

21) The Moody Blues - Gemini Dream (=)

22) Gary U.S. Bonds - This Little Girl (=)

23) Bob Marley & The Wailers - No Woman, No Cry (-6)

24) Kim Wilde - Kids In America (=)

25) Sheena Easton - Modern Girl (+4)

26) Juice Newton - Queen Of Hearts (+1)

27) Ray Parker Jr. & Raydio - A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do) (-8)

28) Ronnie Milsap - (There's) No Gettin' Over Me (debut)

29) Santana - Winning (-1)

30) Diana Ross & Lionel Richie - Endless Love (debut)

31) Ricchi & Poveri - Sara Perché Ti Amo (+1)

32) Shakin' Stevens - This Ole House (-6)

33) Billy Squier - The Stroke (debut)

34) Neil Diamond - America (-9)

35) Carpenters - Touch Me When You're Dancing (-2)

36) Stanley Clarke & George Duke - Sweet Baby (-5)

37) Rosanne Cash - Seven Year Ache (-2)

38) Lee Ritenour - Is It You (-4)

39) John Schneider - It's Now Or Never (debut)

40) The Jacksons - Can You Feel It (Re-Entry)

New entries this week:

28) Ronnie Milsap - (There's) No Gettin' Over Me (Highest debut this week)

30) Diana Ross & Lionel Richie - Endless Love

33) Billy Squier - The Stroke

39) John Schneider - It's Now Or Never

Sergej's Personal Chart Highlights – July 31, 1981

👑 Stability at the Top

• Rick Springfield holds firm at #1 for a second week with “Jessie’s Girl”, confirming its status as the defining pop-rock anthem of the summer 1981.

• The entire Top 3 remains unchanged, with Hall & Oates steady at #2 and Air Supply locked in at #3 — a rare moment of total stability at the very top.

🔥 Major Top 10 Movers

• Kenny Rogers makes a huge leap, soaring 8 spots into the Top 5 at #4 with “I Don’t Need You”, becoming one of the chart’s biggest success stories this week.

• The Pointer Sisters continue their steady climb, reaching a new peak at #5 with “Slow Hand”.

• The Manhattan Transfer score a major breakthrough as “Boy From New York City” jumps 7 places into the Top 10 at #9.

• Marty Balin also hits a new high, rising 4 to #10 with “Hearts”.

📈 Biggest Climbers

• Juice Newton explodes up the chart as “Queen Of Hearts” rockets 12 spots to #14 — one of the week’s standout moves.

• Kim Wilde enjoys a major resurgence, with “Kids In America” jumping 11 places to #13, giving her two strong Top 15 hits at once.

• Lionel Richie & Diana Ross surge 10 spots to #20 with “Endless Love”, quickly establishing itself as a future classic.

• Carpenters float upward 10 to #25 with “Touch Me When You’re Dancing”.

📉 Biggest Fallers

• Former chart titans take a sharp hit this week:

  • Michael Jackson drops 8 to #12.

  • Kim Carnes slides 6 to #11 after her long reign.

  • Phil Collins tumbles 11 to #26, marking the steepest drop of the week.

  • Adam and the Ants fall 12 to #23.

🆕 New Entries
A strong wave of debuts reshapes the lower chart:

• Commodores enter at #30 with the funk-driven “Lady (You Bring Me Up)”.

• REO Speedwagon debut at #32 with “Don’t Let Him Go”.

• Stevie Nicks & Tom Petty arrive at #36 with the moody duet “Stop Dragging My Heart Around”.

• Foreigner storm in at #38 with “Urgent”.

• Greg Kihn Band debut at #39 with the punchy “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ’Em)”.

🎶 Notable Trends

• The chart is clearly shifting toward pop-rock and adult contemporary, while early-summer ballads and disco staples continue their gradual decline.

• With multiple songs peaking and a flood of high-profile debuts, this week feels like the bridge between early and late summer 1981 on Sergej's personal chart.

1) Rick Springfield - Jessie's Girl (=)

2) Daryl Hall & John Oates - You Make My Dreams (Come True) (=)

3) Air Supply - The One That You Love (=)

4) Kenny Rogers - I Don't Need You (+8)

5) The Pointer Sisters - Slow Hand (+3)

6) The Oak Ridge Boys - Elvira (=)

7) Kim Wilde - Chequered Love (=)

8) Joey Scarsbury - Theme From "Greatest American Hero" (Believe It Or Not) (+1)

9) The Manhattan Transfer - Boy From New York City (+7)

10) Marty Balin - Hearts (+4)

11) Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes (-6)

12) Michael Jackson - One Day In Your Life (-8)

13) Kim Wilde - Kids In America (+11)

14) Juice Newton - Queen Of Hearts (+12)

15) Stars On 45 - Stars On 45 (-5)

16) Shakin' Stevens - You Drive Me Crazy (-3)

17) The Moody Blues - Gemini Dream (+4)

18) ABBA - Lay All Your Love On Me (+2)

19) The Alan Parson Project - Time (=)

20) Lionel Richie & Diana Ross - Endless Love (+10)

21) Ottawan - Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart) (-4)

22) Sheena Easton - Modern Girl (+3)

23) Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver (-12)

24) Ronnie Milsap - (There's) No Gettin' Over Me (+4)

25) Carpenters - Touch Me When You're Dancing (+10)

26) Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight (-11)

27) George Harrison - All Those Years Ago (-9)

28) Stanley Clarke & George Duke - Sweet Baby (+8)

29) Ricchi & Poveri - Sara Perché Ti Amo (+2)

30) Commodores - Lady (You Bring Me Up) (debut)

31) Santana - Winning (-2)

32) REO Speedwagon - Don't Let Him Go (debut)

33) Bob Marley & The Wailers - No Woman, No Cry (-10)

34) Billy Squier - The Stroke (-1)

35) Shakin' Stevens - This Ole House (-3)

36) Stevie Nicks & Tom Petty - Stop Dragging My Heart Around (debut)

37) Neil Diamond - America (-3)

38) Foreigner - Urgent (debut)

39) Greg Kihn Band - The Breakup Song (They Don't Write 'Em) (debut)

40) John Schneider - It's Now Or Never (-1)

New entries this week:

30) Commodores - Lady (You Bring Me Up) (Highest debut this week)

32) REO Speedwagon - Don't Let Him Go

36) Stevie Nicks & Tom Petty - Stop Dragging My Heart Around

38) Foreigner - Urgent

39) Greg Kihn Band - The Breakup Song (They Don't Write 'Em)