Score contribution per author:
α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count
We analyse the survival characteristics of recordings that reached the number one spot on the US popular music charts over the period 1955 to 2003. Our results show that there has been a statistically significant change in the time spent at number one since 'album cuts' were included in the compilation of Billboard 's Hot 100. Survival time is significantly improved if the recording is by a female solo artist, or if it is an instrumental tune. We also find a significant 'Elvis effect'. 'I'll never be a saint, it's true. I'm too busy surviving!' (Madonna, 1994)