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, including Dan Avidan. However, for those who are interested in learning about some of the top one-hit wonders in recent pop culture, keep reading. Here they can find out about some options they 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.
For example, “Anchorman,” which is one of Will Ferrell’s greatest creations, has the main character Ron Burgundy vow to fight anyone who disagrees with the statement that this was the greatest song ever to be written. However, the references don’t stop there. 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 Nickleback did.
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. Also, this is 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 and resulted 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.
Favorite One-Hit Wonders
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, 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.