The Billboard Hot 100 is a music chart that ranks the top 100 songs in the United States based on sales, radio play, and online streaming. It is published weekly by Billboard magazine and serves as a key indicator of a song's popularity. The chart has been in existence since 1958 and includes various genres of music. Artists aim to reach the number one spot, which is often seen as a significant achievement in the music industry. The Hot 100 reflects current trends and listener preferences across the country.