# The First Billboard: All That Was ‘New, Bright & Interesting on the Boards’

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/the-first-billboard-all-that-was-new-bright-interesting-on-the-boards/
- Published: 2026-11-01T18:58:55+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-01T19:15:07+00:00
- Original publisher: Billboard
- Original article: https://www.billboard.com/pro/first-billboard-issue-november-1-1894/
- Topics: Music

## Key points

- 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.

## Summary

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.

---
Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.