75 Best One Hit Wonders Ever

“A Little Respect” – Erasure

Song Year: 1988

Erasure's 1988 hit “A Little Respect” is a classic example of the synthpop genre, characterized by its catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and heartfelt lyrics. The song was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the defining songs of the 1980s.

Even though the song became wildly popular, Erasure never achieved similar success with any of their other releases, making “A Little Respect” their biggest hit and earning them the status of a one-hit wonder.

“Take on Me” – a-ha

Song Year: 1986

“Take on Me” by A-ha is an upbeat pop track with contagious energy. The combination of the catchy synthpop melody, falsetto vocals, and the music video's iconic rotoscoping animation make this song a timeless classic. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who is drawn into a world of adventure with a mysterious woman.

The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its place in popular culture. So, If you're in the mood for a nostalgic dance party, “Take on Me” is the perfect tune to get you going.

“Ice Ice Baby” – Vanilla Ice

Song Year: 1990

This upbeat, classic rap track was released in 1990 and became the first hip-hop single to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Vanilla Ice's “Ice Ice Baby” was a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its catchy beats and memorable lyrics.

Despite the rapper's one-hit wonder status, “Ice Ice Baby” remains a staple of classic hip-hop radio and continues to be a fan favorite to this day. The song's influence can be heard in the music of many modern hip-hop artists, solidifying its place in music history.

“All Star” – Smash Mouth

Song Year: 1999

Released in 1999, “All Star” by Smash Mouth became an instant hit and is still widely recognized as one of the most iconic pop-rock tracks of the 90s. The song's upbeat and optimistic lyrics, combined with its catchy chorus, made it a staple of radio stations and movie soundtracks.

It’s a one-hit wonder, sure, but “All Star” has also remained wildly popular over the years, becoming a classic party anthem that's still loved by many.

“Self Esteem” – The Offspring

Song Year: 1994

The Offspring's 1994 track “Self Esteem” was a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the defining songs of the 90s alternative rock movement. With its aggressive guitar riffs and rebellious lyrics, “Self Esteem” spoke to a generation of disaffected youth and became a cultural touchstone for the grunge and punk scenes.

Although The Offspring has had other hit songs, “Self Esteem” remains one of the band's most recognizable and enduring tracks.

“Nothin' But a Good Time” – Poison

Song Year: 1988

Released in 1988, “Nothin' But a Good Time” by Poison is a classic hard rock anthem that still resonates with fans of the genre to this day. With its driving guitar riffs and powerful vocals, the song became a staple of rock radio and a staple of the hair metal scene of the 80s.

Despite being labeled as a one-hit wonder, “Nothin' But a Good Time” remains a beloved classic of the genre and continues to be a fan favorite.

“We Are the World” – USA for Africa

Song Year: 1985

“We Are the World” by USA for Africa is a powerful and inspiring song that brings together some of the biggest names in music to raise awareness and funds for famine relief in Africa. Released in 1985, this song quickly became a one-hit wonder and remains a timeless classic that symbolizes the power of music to bring people together for a good cause.

“Ice Cream Paint Job” – Dorrough

Song Year: 2009

This rap anthem, released in 2009, had an infectious beat that made it a hit in clubs and on the radio. With its catchy hook and upbeat rhythm, “Ice Cream Paint Job” quickly rose to the top of the charts and made Dorrough a household name. However, despite its success, the song was widely considered to be a one-hit wonder as the rapper never replicated its commercial success.

“Love Shack” – The B-52's

Song Year: 1989

This quirky and upbeat pop/rock track was released in 1989 and became an instant one-hit wonder. With its infectious chorus and upbeat rhythm, “Love Shack” quickly rose to the top of the charts and helped to cement the B-52's as a legendary act of the 1980s.

“Funky Cold Medina” – Tone-Loc

Song Year: 1989

Released in 1989, this rap classic features Tone-Loc's distinctive, laid-back flow and a catchy hook that helped it become a massive hit. With its unique blend of old-school rap and funk, “Funky Cold Medina” was a hit in clubs and on the radio and helped to define the sound of rap in the late 1980s.

After this, however, Tone-Loc never again reached the same level of recognition and is often considered a one-hit wonder.

“Baby Got Back” – Sir Mix-a-Lot

Song Year: 1992

This classic rap track, released in 1992, was a massive hit that topped the charts and became an anthem for the 1990s. With its catchy beat and hilarious lyrics, “Baby Got Back” was a huge success both commercially and culturally. But, much like most 90’s rappers, Sir Mix-a-Lot never again reached the same level of commercial success and is often considered a one-hit wonder.