Old Town Road

"Old Town Road" is a country rap song by American rapper and singer Lil Nas X, first released independently in December 2018 and later re-released by Columbia Records in 2019.

"Old Town Road" is a country rap song by American rapper and singer Lil Nas X, first released independently in December 2018 and later re-released by Columbia Records in 2019. A remix featuring Billy Ray Cyrus helped propel the song to major crossover success, including a record-setting run at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

Background

"Old Town Road" began as Lil Nas X's breakout single and spread widely online after its initial independent release in late 2018. It was later picked up and reissued by Columbia Records in 2019.

Commercial success

The song became a major crossover hit and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for 19 consecutive weeks. That run made it one of the most successful singles in U.S. chart history.

Country chart controversy

The song was removed from Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart in 2019 because the publication said it did not contain enough contemporary country elements to qualify. The decision drew widespread attention and debate.

Remix versions

The best-known remix features country singer Billy Ray Cyrus and was released in April 2019. Additional remix versions were also released later in 2019.