The race for the first major Number 1 title of 2026 has turned into a tense and closely fought contest. This week, the Official Singles Chart is shaping up to host an unusual three way clash, bringing together a global superstar, a recent chart leader, and an unexpected contender boosted by a major television moment.
The Frontrunners
Taylor Swift is pushing to return to the top with The Fate of Ophelia. A win would give her an impressive eighth non consecutive week at Number 1, reinforcing her strong start to the year. Challenging her is RAYE, whose viral smash WHERE IS MY HUSBAND! claimed the year’s first chart crown. Now holding at Number 2, RAYE is aiming to keep the momentum going and lock in a second week at the summit.
The "Stranger Things" Effect
This week’s biggest surprise comes from Djo, the musical alias of Joe Keery. Following the emotional finale of Stranger Things, his synth driven track End of Beginning has surged back into the race. Driven by fans saying goodbye to his fan favorite character Steve Harrington, Djo has climbed to Number 3 and is now within reach of the top position.
The end of the series has rippled across the Top 40, sparking a renewed wave of classic hits returning to the chart:
Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill (14)
Tiffany’s I Think We’re Alone Now (25)
The Clash’s Should I Stay or Should I Go (34), marking its first Top 40 appearance in 35 years.
Prince’s Purple Rain (39)
New Entries and Rising Stars
Away from the fight for Number 1, James Marriott is on course for the week’s highest debut. After scoring a chart topping album in 2025, California Rain is expected to open at Number 5, becoming his first Singles Chart Top 40 entry. Elsewhere, global girl group KATSEYE are eyeing a new personal best, with Internet Girl currently sitting at 13.
As the final numbers approach, attention is also on Chappell Roan, whose Pink Pony Club is climbing toward the Top 30, while Sonny Fodera is closing in on a Top 20 breakthrough. With streaming figures shifting by the day, the Number 1 spot remains wide open.
