The best one-hit wonders of all time: Songs by artists that you never heard from again
These fleeting chart sensations prove you don’t need a long career to create music that sticks in America’s collective memory.
What does it take to write and produce a hit song? It’s the million-dollar question music artists have asked since the beginning of time.
The vast majority, of course, never get close to finding the answer. Others discover the right formula and repeat it again and again.
Then, somewhere in the middle, are those who briefly stumble upon success only to fall short in later attempts to match it.
Timeless one-hit wonders
Over the years, there have been more one-hit wonders than you could possibly imagine. Here are 10 of our favorites that made a lasting musical impact despite their fleeting fame.
Spirit in the Sky – Norman Greenbaum (1970)
Known for its fuzzy guitar riff and gospel-inspired vocals, this rock classic became a top 3 hit and a cultural touchstone for movies and commercials.
Venus – Shocking Blue (1970)
This catchy, hard-driving rock song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains an enduring staple of 1970s playlists.
Stuck in the Middle With You – Stealers Wheel (1972)
With its jangly guitars and memorable chorus, this song became famous for its chart success and its iconic use in the film “Reservoir Dogs.”
Mickey – Toni Basil (1982)
This energetic cheerleader anthem became a top 10 hit and is still a favorite at sporting events.
Tainted Love – Soft Cell (1982)
A synth-pop classic that reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, it remains a staple of 1980s music compilations.
Come on Eileen – Dexys Midnight Runners (1983)
This upbeat tune topped the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a popular sing-along at parties.
Ice Ice Baby – Vanilla Ice (1990)
As the first hip-hop single to top the Billboard Hot 100, it introduced rap to mainstream audiences.
I’m Too Sexy – Right Said Fred (1991)
Known for its catchy hook and humorous lyrics, this song became a pop culture reference point.
Macarena (Bayside Boys Mix) – Los Del Rio (1996)
This dance track became a massive cultural phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and inspiring a viral dance craze.
Who Let the Dogs Out? – Baha Men (2000)
Despite its release at the turn of the millennium, this song remains a party favorite and a sports arena staple.
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