Hootie & The Blowfish Makes a Surprise Return to the Charts with an Unexpected New Hit

Hootie & the Blowfish significantly impacted alternative rock in the ’90s and enjoyed massive airplay during that era. Their album Cracked Rear View has sold over 20 million copies in the U.S. alone, remaining one of the country’s top-selling albums.

Though typically linked to one rock subgenre, this week the band makes its return to the country charts.

Scotty McCreery & Hootie & the Blowfish

Scotty McCreery joined forces with Hootie & the Blowfish for his latest single, debuting on one Billboard chart. “Bottle Rockets” starts at No. 30 on the Country Airplay chart, marking a top 40 debut in one of the most competitive radio rankings in the country.

Hootie & the Blowfish Hits the Country Chart

While often associated solely with rock, Hootie & the Blowfish has previously charted on the Country Airplay chart. Their song “Hold On” reached No. 30 back in 2019. Interestingly, the band has only achieved two wins on the country chart, both of which peaked at the same position — so far.

Hootie & the Blowfish’s Second Country Hit

“Bottle Rockets” not only features Hootie & the Blowfish but also samples one of their major hits. The track incorporates “Hold My Hand,” which became a hit back in 1994. This song, the band’s debut, catapulted them to fame, earning them another spot on a chart few expected they’d reach again.

Darius Rucker is a Country Star

While Hootie & the Blowfish may not have an extensive history on the Country Airplay chart, lead singer Darius Rucker is well-acquainted with it. After a break from the band, he pursued a solo career in country music, accumulating 23 placements on the chart, nearly half of which — nine songs — have cracked the top 10, with many also reaching the top position.

Scotty McCreery’s New Album

Meanwhile, McCreery celebrates his eighteenth hit on the Country Airplay chart, with exactly half breaking into the top 10 and five hitting No. 1. The former American Idol winner is promoting an upcoming album, led by the track “Bottle Rockets.”