Billboard magazine launched its Modern Rock Tracks chart on September 10, 1988, marking a significant recognition of alternative music. Siouxsie & The Banshees topped the chart with "Peek-A-Boo." The inaugural list showcases a mix of British, reggae, and indie artists, establishing a vital platform for the alternative genre's growth.
The Goo Goo Dolls maintain their No. 1 position on the Modern Rock Tracks chart and the 14th week on the chart with “Iris,” influenced by the City of Angels soundtrack. Semisonic's “Closing Time” is second, followed by Fuel's “Shimmer.” New entries include Dave Matthews Band's “Stay,” while several artists showcase strong movements, signaling a vibrant July 1998 rock scene.
In June 1989, The Cure's "Fascination Street" topped the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart for its third consecutive week. Love and Rockets and The Cult followed closely. Notable newcomers included Public Image Ltd. and Tin Machine. The chart showcased a blend of indie sound, political criticism, and evolving alternative music trends.
On June 6, 1992, XTC holds the top spot on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks with “The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead.” The Cure's “Friday I’m In Love” follows at No. 2, and The Soup Dragons' “Divine Thing” ranks third. Notable climbers include Morrissey, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and debuting artists like Tom Tom Club.
The Cranberries' single "Salvation" has topped the Modern Rock chart, displacing Oasis’s "Champagne Supernova." "Salvation" marks their first chart leader since "Zombie" in 1994. Other notable songs include Stone Temple Pilots' "Big Bang Baby" at No. 3 and Soundgarden's debut "Pretty Noose" at No. 7, suggesting upcoming chart changes.
"Enjoy The Silence" by Depeche Mode remains number one on the Modern Rock chart for the ninth week. The House Of Love's "I Don't Know Why I Love You" rises to second, while The Church's "Metropolis" stays third. Other noteworthy tracks include "Forgotten Years" by Midnight Oil and "Fools Gold" by The Stone Roses.
Transmission with Derek Nester 