The First Billboard: All That Was ‘New, Bright & Interesting on the Boards’
Billboard’s first issue appeared on 1 November 1894 as *Billboard Advertising*, a publication for people working in outdoor advertising and fair promotion. Its focus on music and charts emerged over time, making the anniversary a reminder of how the publication evolved while continuing to cover the entertainment business.
The first edition had eight pages and cost 10 cents, or 99 cents for a year; its cover featured R.C. Campbell, president of the Associated Bill Posters’ Association. Billboard’s first national retail record sales chart arrived in 1940, led by Tommy Dorsey’s “I’ll Never Smile Again”; the Hot 100 began in 1958, with Ricky Nelson’s “Poor Little Fool” at No. 1. Today its charts span music, streaming and social activity, alongside awards, events, podcasts and other platforms.
In short
- Billboard began as an advertising trade magazine in 1894.
- Its first national retail record chart arrived in 1940.
- The publication now spans charts, events and digital media.
Explained simply
Billboard began in 1894 as a trade publication for people who put up outdoor adverts and promoted fairs. Its first issue had eight pages and featured R.C. Campbell, head of an association of bill posters.
The magazine later turned its attention to music and record sales. It introduced a national record sales chart in 1940 and the Hot 100 in 1958, as recorded music became a growing part of popular entertainment.
Today, Billboard covers music across charts, streaming and social media, as well as awards and events. Its history reflects changes in how the entertainment business promotes and measures what audiences are listening to.