How Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” Became the Billboard Hot 100’s Top Song
In the realm of pop music today, the spotlight isn’t on mainstream artists like Kendrick Lamar or Drake. Instead, it seems to be shining on a new breed of male musicians, exemplified by Alex Warren.
While a new song has claimed the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart this week, what’s truly making waves lies further down. This lesser-known hit is making history by sitting in the Top 10 with unprecedented longevity. Its journey started when the Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” set the record with 90 weeks on the chart in 2021, surpassing Imagine Dragons’ “Radioactive.” Glass Animals’ “Heat Waves” took over with 91 weeks in 2022, only to be dethroned by Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control” in 2025, now enjoying its 93rd week on the chart and counting. This soulful anthem has become a staple, easily recognizable if you’ve set foot anywhere outside your home in the last year.
Even if you aren’t familiar with “Lose Control” or Teddy Swims, chances are you’ve heard this track, deeply ingrained in popular culture. While Swims may not have replicated the same success with his other releases, this one hit has become a phenomenon. His gravelly voice and soulful delivery have made him a standout in a wave of male vocalists dominating the music scene with raw emotion and honest lyrics.
The rise of artists like Alex Warren, with his hit “Ordinary,” signifies the takeover of a new era in music. Joined by fellow male artists like Benson Boone and Myles Smith, Warren’s authenticity shines through in his music, pulling at heartstrings and resonating with audiences worldwide. His music embodies a sincerity that sets him apart, reminiscent of Ed Sheeran and Lewis Capaldi in its emotive quality.
While “Ordinary” may seem to poke fun at mundane experiences, Warren’s genuine approach to music and life is evident. Embracing religious undertones in his lyrics and a heartfelt video starring his real-life wife, Warren’s ballads speak volumes. Despite his success in the U.K., Warren’s roots lie in California, with a background in content creation through platforms like YouTube and TikTok, where he found fame before transcending into the music industry.
The emergence of artists like Alex Warren represents a new chapter in music history, where social media influencers are crossing over into the realm of music. Warren’s journey from skateboard and prank videos to crafting soulful ballads is a testament to the evolving landscape of the music industry. With tracks like “Ordinary” taking the charts by storm, it’s clear that music fans are craving authenticity and relatability in their tunes, paving the way for a new generation of male artists to take center stage on the global music scene.