Dave’s “Raindance” Becomes Longest-Charting UK Rap Song on US Billboard Hot 100
South London rapper Dave has etched his name into Billboard history. His collaboration with Nigerian superstar Tems, “Raindance,” has now spent 22 consecutive weeks on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, surpassing previous records to become the longest-charting song by any UK rapper on the prestigious chart.
The track, released as the lead single from Dave’s third studio album The Boy Who Played the Harp (2025), first entered the Hot 100 at No. 89 in early February 2026, marking Dave’s debut appearance on the chart. It has shown remarkable staying power, climbing as high as No. 49 while maintaining consistent performance across streaming, sales, and airplay metrics. As of the latest tracking week, it remains a steady presence deep in the chart.
UK Dominance and Global Breakthrough
Back home, “Raindance” has been an even bigger juggernaut. It topped the UK Official Singles Chart in January 2026—Dave’s fourth No. 1 single—making him the UK rapper with the most chart-toppers this decade. Tems scored her first UK No. 1 with the track. The song has spent multiple weeks at the summit and remains a streaming staple.
The collaboration blends Dave’s introspective UK rap style with Tems’ soulful Afrobeats-infused vocals, creating a smooth, infectious summer-ready anthem that resonated across borders. It has charted strongly in multiple territories, reaching top 10s in countries including Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Switzerland while dominating Afrobeats and global playlists.
Why This Milestone Matters
UK rap has enjoyed massive domestic success, with acts like Dave, Central Cee, and Stormzy dominating home charts (Dave and Central Cee’s “Sprinter” previously set UK records). However, sustained U.S. Hot 100 presence has been rarer. Dave’s achievement highlights the growing global reach of British hip-hop and the increasing influence of Afrobeats-rap fusions.
The song’s longevity underscores Dave’s evolution from critically acclaimed storyteller (Psychodrama Mercury Prize winner) to a mainstream crossover force. As “Raindance” keeps climbing playlists and radio spins, Dave’s U.S. breakthrough could pave the way for more extended runs from UK artists. For now, the 26-year-old MC stands alone at the top of the leaderboard for British rappers on the Hot 100.
