37 Best One Hit Wonders Of The 2010s
Contents
“I'm Awesome” by Spose
Song Year: 2010
Spose is an American rapper and hip-hop artist who initially self-released this satirical tune. The narrator is a sarcastic, foul-mouthed 25-year-old who still uses his mother's automobile. He avoids conflict, makes all his pals digitally, and lacks any confidence.
The guy believes he is incredible, even though women disagree. He has little money and zero ability or charisma. Nevertheless, his message is clear – you’re fantastic, and don't ever let anybody make you think otherwise.
“Classic Man” by Jidenna
Song Year: 2015
Jidenna is a Nigerian-American rapper and R&B artist best known for his hit song “Classic Man.” It earned a Grammy nomination and served as the lead single on Janelle Monáe's collective extended play, The Eephus.
The lyrics mainly revolve around the artist’s flashy and polished look, but Jidenna also slips in the word “mummafucker” to describe himself. Jidenna notes that the song is about the man behind the fashion.
“Panda” by Desiigner
Song Year: 2015
Desiigner, an American rapper and hip-hop artist, released “Panda” as a single. It became an anthem for many hip hop fans and even earned a Billboard award and Grammy nomination. Several other artists have sampled, remixed, and covered the hit.
On the surface, the lyrics seem incomprehensible gibberish, but Desiigner explains that it’s about how the White X6 with black windows resembles a panda. It’s that simple, apparently.
“OOOUUU” by Young M.A
Song Year: 2015
One of the finest rap songs of the last decade comes from Katorah Kasanova Marrero, better known as Young M.A. Nothing she's done since “OOOUUU” has had even a fraction of the impact, but she’s putting forth new music that might change things.
When asked about the song’s meaning, Young M.A. noted that the title is just a random thing she says with her friends. The lyric is a metaphor for a female who does inappropriate things.
“Home to You” by Sigrid
Song Year: 2019
Norwegian artist Sigrid has two albums under her belt and remains a well-known name in the industry, but she only has one smash hit. “Home to You” even appeared on the soundtrack for the movie The Aeronauts.
Sigrid also released a holiday version of the hit about heading home and being with family.
“Man’s Not Hot” by Big Shaq
Song Year: 2017
Actor Michael Dapaah releases music under the alias Big Shaq, but the Brit only found mainstream success with one song. “Man's Not Hot” is a novelty song that samples other hits and has layers of meanings to the artist’s affinity for wearing puffer coats and baggy clothes.
The song was successful commercially, reaching its highest position on the UK Singles Chart at number three. The BPI has awarded the song with a platinum certification in the United Kingdom, indicating that it has garnered 600,000 sales and streams.
“Friday” by Rebecca Black
Song Year: 2011
Rebecca Black might be more recognizable as a YouTube star, but her song went viral thanks to her status. Though the critical response to the song was overwhelmingly unfavorable, it became a smash among the younger generations who rallied behind the then-13-year-old.
The song is all about having a good time with friends and details the life of a teenager as Black experiences it.
“Solo Dance” by Martin Jensen
Song Year: 2016
Danish DJ and record producer Martin Jensen took a chance and released his own single, which became a viral sensation. Jensen’s success is at least partially attributed to his videos, which used humorous audio from internet memes to create tropical house mixes.
“Solo Dance” topped the Official Trending Chart and earned positive accolades. It’s about a sensual dance with both people imagining the other as they work alone.
“My Love” by Route 94
Song Year: 2014
Rowan Tyler Jones took on the stage name Route 94 and gained fame as a producer and remixer. After helping others with their music for years, he partnered with vocalist Jess Glynne to release his first track, “My Love.”
The deep house tune “My Love” is greatly inspired by Eurodance from the '90s. It represents Route 94’s interpretation of love.
“I Hate U I Love U” by Gnash featuring Olivia O’Brien
Song Year: 2015
Gnash, an American singer and rapper partnered with vocalist Olivia O'Brien for the song “I Hate U, I Love U.” It debuted as the first single from Gnash’s third studio album, Us, and hit the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100
The song tells the story of a breakup where both people still miss each other. However, one party is still emotional about the breakup and the other is moving on.
“Let You Down” by NF
Song Year: 2017
Nathan John Feuerstein, the American rapper better known as NF, broke into the mainstream with the single “Let You Down.” The third and final single from his 2017 album Perception peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Pop Songs chart.
NF notes that the song is about his relationship with his father. The rapper regrets disappointing his dad.
“Money” by Peace
Song Year: 2013
Peace is a British indie-rock band headed by brothers Harrison and Samuel Koisser. They started under the name Criminal and released an EP but then changed to Peace later the same year.
There’s no secret meaning to this song’s lyrics that looks at the importance of money, specifically digital currency.
“Sail” by AWOLNATION
Song Year: 2011
This alternative-rock band from LA seems like they should have more hits to their name, yet Sail remains the only one to hit the charts. Despite several tours and a few follow-up albums, AWOLNATION hasn’t managed to strike again.
The song is about being overwhelmed by problems and unable to live up to expectations. Written by AWOLNATION founder, Aaron Bruno, it’s a cry for help as the narrator seeks support and comfort.
Top One Hit Wonders Of The 2010s, Final Thoughts
So, what’s your favorite from this list of the best one-hit wonders of the 2010s? We're hopeful that some of these artists will be able to get off this list with a new popular music single in the next few years.
