Which category is given to the best-performing song on the Hot 100?

The category given to the best-performing song on the Billboard Hot 100 is Top Hot 100 Song. It honors the song that achieved the strongest overall chart performance during the award eligibility period.

The Billboard Hot 100 combines several measures of popularity, including streaming activity, radio airplay and sales. Because the award is based on performance across the full chart, it is broader than categories focused on only one format. Top Streaming Song emphasizes streams, Top Digital Song emphasizes downloads, and Top Radio Song emphasizes radio audience.

The category was introduced at the first Billboard Music Awards in 1990. Its winners have included major crossover hits such as Mariah Carey’s “One Sweet Day,” Santana’s “Smooth,” Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth’s “See You Again,” and The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights.” Justin Bieber is listed as the category’s only multiple winner, with two victories.

The category’s name can be confused with Top Hot 100 Artist, which recognizes an artist’s overall chart success rather than one song. The distinction is simple: Top Hot 100 Song is a song award, while Top Hot 100 Artist is an artist award.