“Grazing In The Grass” by Hugh Masekela reached #1 on Billboard on July 20th, 1968

Here you see it honored with an Authentic, First Presentation, First-State, RIAA Gold “White Matte” Single. The only RIAA format from 1964 to 1975…

Here’s the backstory of the accomplishment…

“Grazing in the Grass” is an instrumental composed by Philemon Hou and first recorded by the South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela. Released in the United States in May of 1968. It was inspired by an earlier novelty recording, “Mr. Bull No. 5”, which Masekela had heard in Zambia. When Masekela was recording his debut album, the running order was short by three minutes and his record company suggested he record the tune. Philemon Hou, an actor and singer who was present in the studio, came up with a new melody while the backing track was already being recorded.

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