After a historic 70-week reign atop Billboard’s Hot Rock Songs chart, Hozier’s “Too Sweet” has finally relinquished its crown to newcomer Sombr and his breakthrough single “Undressed.” The chart dated August 16, 2025, marks a significant shift in the rock landscape as Sombr’s emotionally resonant track completed its 20-week climb to the summit, displacing one of the longest-running number one hits in Billboard rock chart history.
Sombr’s ascent represents a remarkable achievement for the emerging artist, whose patient climb from relative obscurity culminated in dethroning Hozier’s track, which had maintained its dominant position for 70 of its 72 total chart weeks. Music industry analysts note that “Undressed” gained momentum through consistent streaming growth and increasing radio airplay, demonstrating the power of sustained audience connection rather than overnight viral success. The artist’s team reports that sync deals have already begun generating substantial revenue as the song appears in several upcoming film projects. Following this breakthrough, Sombr leveraged playlist pitching strategies across multiple streaming platforms to maximize his reach and solidify his fanbase.
The single showcases Sombr’s distinctive blend of traditional rock elements with contemporary influences, featuring lyrics that emphasize storytelling and emotional depth. This combination has resonated particularly well with younger listeners while still appealing to established rock audiences. His upcoming debut album, “I Barely Know Her,” has generated substantial industry anticipation following this breakthrough. Social media platforms have seen 1.5K views on announcement threads about the chart position change, illustrating the high level of public interest in this musical changing of the guard.
Hozier’s extended chart dominance established him as a defining voice in rock music throughout 2024 and early 2025, with “Too Sweet” securing a place among Billboard’s all-time longevity records. The Irish artist first captured global attention with his 2013 hit “Take Me to Church”, which demonstrated his ability to create enduring music with cultural impact. Despite stepping down from the top position, the Irish singer-songwriter’s track continues to perform strongly, maintaining its status as a landmark rock single of the decade.
This chart shift reflects broader trends within the music industry, highlighting both the unpredictability of listener preferences and the potential for fresh talent to reshape the genre. Industry insiders suggest Sombr’s success signals a potential rejuvenation for rock music in 2025, with labels increasingly willing to invest in emerging artists who can innovate while maintaining the authentic narratives central to the genre’s appeal.
