The Official Singles Chart is bracing for a tectonic shift as Olivia Rodrigo makes a triumphant return to the summit. According to this week’s First Look, her latest single, "drop dead," is currently leading the pack, eyeing a debut at Number 1.
The track serves as the first taste of her highly anticipated third studio album, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love. If it maintains its momentum until Friday, it will mark Rodrigo’s fourth UK Number 1, joining the ranks of "drivers license," "good 4 u," and "vampire." To claim the throne, she’ll need to displace the reigning champions, Sam Fender and Olivia Dean, whose collaboration "Rein Me In" currently sits at Number 3.
The Record Store Day & Coachella Influence
The chart landscape is being heavily shaped by two major cultural events: Record Store Day 2024 and Coachella.
Taylor Swift is breathing down Rodrigo’s neck at Number 2 with "Elizabeth Taylor." The track surged following a limited RSD violet glitter vinyl release, featuring a "So Glamorous Cabaret Version."
The "Coachella Effect" has sparked a massive renaissance for Justin Bieber. After a standout presence at the festival, his classic "Beauty and a Beat" (feat. Nicki Minaj) is projected to hit a new peak at Number 4. Bieber’s 2010 anthem "Baby" is also eyeing a re-entry at Number 21, while his former chart-topper "DAISIES" climbs back into the Top 10.
Physical Sales & Surprise Hits
Specialist physical releases continue to drive the standings. Olivia Dean and Jools Holland’s soulful rendition of "You’ve Got a Friend" is set to sneak into the Top 10 at Number 8 thanks to its RSD variant. Meanwhile, Charli xcx is looking at a fresh peak for "party 4 u" (Number 12) following a 7” crystal clear vinyl drop.
Lower down the chart, sombr sees a double entry with "Homewrecker" (7) and "Potential" (23), while Lana Del Rey’s Bond-themed "First Light" and the powerhouse duo of Tyla and Zara Larsson on "SHE DID IT AGAIN" both look to secure strong Top 40 finishes.
