Saturday marked the 46th anniversary of a legendary band’s No. 1 hit, which happens to include the best bassline in rock and roll history.

August 22 marked an important day in the world of music for many reasons. In 1969, American Latin rock band Santana released their debut album of the same name. In 2000, Green Day released “the debut single from their sixth studio album called “Minority,” the debut single from their sixth studio album called Warning. And in 1989, the Red Hot Chili Peppers released “Knock Me Down,” which peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart.

And on August 22, 1980, the iconic rock band Queen released one of their best songs of all time as a single in the UK – “Another One Bites the Dust.”

The song featured the original four members of the band, with Freddie Mercury on lead vocals, John Deacon playing bass and guitar, Roger Taylor on the drums and Brian May with some guitar contributions as well.

“Another One Bites the Dust,” written by Deacon, was the fourth single released from Queen’s eighth studio album, The Game. The album also featured other notable hits from the rock band, including “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “Save Me” and “Play the Game.”

Peaking at No. 1 in October 1980, “Another One Bites the Dust” would stay atop the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks. It would also peak at No. 2 on the Hot Soul/R&B and Disco charts.

“Another One Bites the Dust” Named the Best Bassline Ever

British rock band Queen, London, 1973. Left to right: drummer Roger Taylor, singer Freddie Mercury (1946 – 1991), guitarist Brian May, and bassist John Deacon.(Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images)

Deacon wrote “Another One Bites the Dust” around his funky bass line, with the bassist playing a majority of the instruments himself. In fact, Deacon took inspiration for his bass line from the classic disco hit “Good Times” by Chic.

Years later, “Another One Bites the Dust” has even been voted as the “greatest bassline” ever on Sky Group.

Ranking just other Queen’s hit singles include “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson, “Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie, “The Chain” by Fleetwood Mac and “Radio Gaga” by Queen, which rounds out the top five.

Related: 1939 Classic Named the ‘Best Movie Song of All Time’

This story was originally published by Men’s Journal on Aug 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.