Everyone can think of at least one or two one-hit wonders. These are the singers and artists who had a hit but then seemed to disappear from the entertainment industry completely.
While virtually everyone can think of one-hit wonders when asked, some groups and performers never seem to fade away. However, for those who are interested in learning about some of the top one-hit wonders in recent pop culture, keep reading. Here, you can find out about some artists, bands, or songs you may have forgotten about – until now.
“Afternoon Delight” by The Starland Vocal Band
Originally released in 1976, “Afternoon Delight” is perhaps one of the most enduring one-hit wonders ever to exist. It has been decades since this song came out, yet it continues to be referenced throughout pop culture.
One of the most famous references to the song is in one episode of the animated comedy series “The Simpsons,” where it was shown that Homer Simpson has a tattoo of the Starland Vocal Band on his arm (even though this is a tattoo he eventually regrets). The references go on and on, which is why this one-hit wonder deserves the top spot on this list.
“Macarena” by Los Del Rio
A new dance craze hit the airways in 1996, and the name was “Macarena.” There’s no question that the ’90s has more than a few honorable mentions when it comes to epic dance moves, but nothing can top the dance that went along with this catchy, somewhat annoying song.
While there are a few dancer crazes that may have come in a close second to the Macarena, such as the Roger Rabbit and The Achy Breaky, let’s face it – the Macarena is a dance that every generation knows about. This song was so popular that it stayed at the top of the charts for a whopping 14 weeks in the U.S.
“Bad Day” by Daniel Powter
Let’s face it; no show quite has the cult following that “American Idol” does. As a result, the song that is played each time someone leaves, “Bad Day,” is now well-known. While the song is something you likely know the words to, how often can you recall who sang it? If you are like most people, not often would be the answer.
However, Daniel Powter is a Canadian-born singer, and he was the first one to reach the top of the charts since the band Nickelback.
The song was originally heard in 2005 by Coca-Cola, which used it for their European commercials. However, just a year later, it was featured on “American Idol” for an entire season. This is what caused the song to top the charges and become the best-selling digital download in 2006.
Something else significant about this one-hit wonder is that it is a prime example of the world’s move to digital music. Just think about it – did you know anyone with a Daniel Powter album?
“Whoomp! There It Is” by Tag Team
When it comes to hip-hop songs moving into mainstream music, “Whoomp! There It Is” is not the first or only example. By 1993, when this song was released, rap had made it as a Grammy category, and the Beastie Boys had already produced and released three different albums. This was also when Bart Simpson started his rapping efforts.
Tag Team did not break new ground with this one-hit wonder, but it is a catchy song that is worth mentioning (especially since you probably can’t name any other Tag Team hits).
Coming out of Atlanta, Tag Team was one of the first rap groups to break through the genre, resulting in many record labels paying attention to all the cities that would eventually be known as the “dirty south” a few years later. Before this, there were just two coasts on the radar when it came to rap music. However, today, this has changed. Rap comes from all corners of the country, and this is the song that clarifies that rap was not limited to just one area.
“Take On Me” by a-ha
Norwegian band a-ha released “Take On Me” in 1985. The song was an instant hit, known for its catchy melody and groundbreaking music video. The video, which mixed live-action with pencil-sketch animation, became iconic.
“Take On Me” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Though a-ha continued to make music, they never matched the success of this hit. The song and its video are still beloved by fans of the 80s.
“Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega
Lou Bega’s “Mambo No. 5” became a hit in 1999. The song’s infectious rhythm and playful lyrics made it a favorite on dance floors around the world. Its catchy chorus was easy to sing along to.
The song topped the charts in many countries and brought Bega international fame. Despite his efforts, Bega couldn’t produce another hit of the same caliber. “Mambo No. 5” remains his most memorable contribution to pop music.
“Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice
In 1990, Vanilla Ice released “Ice Ice Baby,” becoming an overnight sensation. The song, which sampled Queen and David Bowie’s “Under Pressure,” had a catchy beat and memorable lyrics. It became the first hip-hop single to top the Billboard Hot 100.
Vanilla Ice struggled to follow up with another hit. Despite his later efforts, “Ice Ice Baby” remains his standout track. It continues to be a nostalgic favorite for fans of early 90s hip-hop.
“Who Let the Dogs Out” by Baha Men
Baha Men’s “Who Let the Dogs Out” hit the airwaves in 2000. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat tempo made it an instant party anthem. It was popular at sports events and parties, gaining widespread recognition.
Though Baha Men released other songs, none matched the success of “Who Let the Dogs Out.” The song remains a go-to track for energetic, fun-filled occasions.
“Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba
British band Chumbawamba released “Tubthumping” in 1997. The song’s chorus, “I get knocked down, but I get up again,” resonated with listeners. It became a hit, known for its energetic vibe and defiant message.
“Tubthumping” reached the top of the charts in several countries. Despite the band’s long career, they are best remembered for this one hit. The song is still a favorite at events where people want to feel uplifted and energized.
Other Interesting Facts About One-Hit Wonders
One-hit wonders often surprise us with their unexpected success and unique stories. Here are some additional interesting facts about these memorable tracks.
- Chart Records: Some one hit wonders hold chart records. For example, “Macarena” by Los Del Rio stayed on the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 60 weeks.
- Sales Milestones: Many one hit wonders achieve impressive sales. “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice sold over 15 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time.
- Artist Backgrounds: Some one-hit wonders come from artists with interesting backgrounds. Norman Greenbaum, who sang “Spirit in the Sky,” was actually a folk singer before his hit single became popular.
- Cultural Impact: One-hit wonders can leave a lasting cultural impact. “Who Let the Dogs Out” by Baha Men is still a popular chant at sports events and parties, showing how these songs can transcend their original release.
- Record Labels: Often, one hit wonders come from small or independent record labels. This can lead to unexpected success stories where a small team helps launch a major hit.
- Debut Singles: Some one-hit wonders are debut singles. For instance, “My Sharona” by The Knack was their first release and quickly climbed to number one on the charts.
- Decades of Hits: Every decade has its share of one-hit wonders. From the 60s with “In the Year 2525” by Zager and Evans to the 2000s with “Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus, these hits span across all eras.
- Unexpected Genres: One hit wonders can come from unexpected genres. “Come on Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners, a hit in the 80s, has a distinctive folk-pop sound that stood out from other hits of the time.
- Movie Boosts: Some songs become one-hit wonders after being featured in movies. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers gained major popularity after being included in the film “Benny & Joon.”
- YouTube Revivals: In recent years, some one-hit wonders have found new audiences through YouTube and social media. This platform helps older hits reach new generations of listeners.
Conclusion
As you can see from the information here, there are more than a few one-hit wonders to consider and think about when it comes to pop culture. There’s a good chance you can name several others that should be on this list.
Unfortunately, one-hit wonders are more common than many people realize. While this one song may be the only thing the person or group is known for, let’s face it – these helped to shape a generation and era and impact people of all ages. As a result, it is an important part of history and pop culture you should never forget. Being informed is the best way to learn more about music history.
Additional Suggestions
- Unlike some one-hit wonders, some artists like Dan Avidan would release numerous popular tracks over the years.
- In the comedy film “Anchorman,” which is one of Will Ferrell’s greatest creations, the main character, Ron Burgundy, vows to fight anyone who disagrees with the statement that “Afternoon Delight” by The Starland Vocal Band was the greatest song ever written.