In a remarkable testament to the enduring power of music and the influence of modern social media, Jeff Buckley has posthumously entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time, nearly three decades after his tragic death. The late singer-songwriter's 1994 track, "Lover, You Should've Come Over", from his critically acclaimed only album Grace, debuted at No. 97 on the prestigious chart.
Viral TikTok Trend Drives Streaming Surge
The unexpected chart entry is primarily attributed to a significant surge in popularity on social media platforms, most notably TikTok. Over a week-long period between 16 and 22 January, the song garnered an impressive 3.8 million streams in the United States alone. This viral momentum has propelled the track, which was never released as an official single, into the mainstream spotlight, introducing Buckley's haunting vocals and emotive lyrics to a new generation of listeners.
Chart History and Legacy
Prior to this breakthrough, "Lover, You Should've Come Over" first appeared on the Hot Rock and Alternative Songs charts in April of the previous year, where it has consistently remained, peaking at No. 12. Jeff Buckley, who gained a notable following in the early 1990s with his unique blend of rock, folk, and soul, tragically drowned in 1997 at the age of 30. His untimely death cut short a promising career, but his music has continued to resonate with fans worldwide.
This posthumous achievement underscores how digital platforms like TikTok can breathe new life into classic tracks, reshaping music consumption and chart dynamics. It serves as a poignant reminder of Buckley's lasting impact on the music industry, as his work finds renewed appreciation in the streaming era.
