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Wednesday - May 22, 2013

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Hampton’s Walter making final pilgrimage

NEW YORK — Viral videos are hits on the Web, and now they can help propel a song to the top of the Billboard charts.

Billboard has announced that U.S. YouTube data is now one of the factors when ranking Hot 100 songs and songs on its other charts.

The new rule went into effect this week, with the viral-video hit “Harlem Shake” debuting at No. 1. Other factors include radio airplay, digital download sales, physical single sales, on-demand audio streaming and online radio streaming. Billboard's new rule incorporates all official videos on YouTube, including Vevo.

“Harlem Shake” by Brooklyn producer Baauer features few lyrics. The video has a heavy dance-flavored beat. It became a viral success thanks to hundreds of YouTube videos of people dancing to the song.

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2. Steelers veteran outside linebacker Woodley: ‘I’m good to go’
3. Penguins turn Game 4 into a blowout victory over the Senators
4. Steelers’ Miller watches, waits while teammates practice
5. Steelers notebook: Slimmed-down Redman optimistic for 2013
6. Neal, Iginla get back on track to lead Penguins
7. Senators on cusp of ouster against Penguins
8. Pirates outfielder Snider certainly proving to be (big) hit
9. Pirates notebook: Morton could be back in early June
10. Former Springdale police officer charged with drug possession, stealing badge
11. Starter Liriano impressive again as Pirates blank Cubs

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