The first number one single of the year was the 700th since charts began, a reggae version of "Twist and Shout" by Chaka Demus & Pliers.
The next month saw Mariah Carey get her first solo UK number 1 with "Without You", after having 8 previous chart-toppers in the United States.
Manchester rockers Oasis found their success on their debut album, Definitely Maybe, which shot to number No.
Popularised through its use in TV commercials, the title track became known to classical and popular music fans alike.
A record was broken in 1994 for the longest song to become a UK top 10 hit when Bon Jovi released the single "Dry County" in March, when it peaked at #9.