Dave “Baby” Cortez’s rollicking "The Happy Organ" reached No. 1 on the Hot 100 in May 1959, becoming the first instrumental hit to top the chart.

Jackson Olsen of Ladera Ranch, a senior studying at Tesoro High School, is an instrumental music finalist for Artist of the Year in 2025. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Homma) ...

Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives released an instrumental album titled "Space Junk." The album is inspired by a range of influences, from classic country guitarists to surf rock and jazz.