75 Best One Hit Wonders Ever
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“My Neck, My Back (Lick It)” – Khia
Song Year: 2002
Khia's 2002 single “My Neck, My Back (Lick It)” was a provocative and bold entry into the world of hip-hop. The song's explicit lyrics, combined with its catchy beat, quickly made it a fan favorite, earning Khia widespread recognition and success. This recognition was short-lived, however, as she has yet to release anything nearly as popular as this track in recent years.
“Do They Know It's Christmas?” – Band Aid
Song Year: 1984
“Do They Know It's Christmas?” by Band Aid is a charity single that was recorded in 1984 to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. The song was organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure and brought together some of the biggest names in music, including Bono, George Michael, and Boy George. The single was a massive commercial success, reaching number one in multiple countries, and helping to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia.
“Do They Know It's Christmas?” is widely considered to be one of the most significant charity singles of all time, both for its impact on the music industry and for its humanitarian efforts. The song's notoriety stems from its powerful message, its all-star lineup of artists, and its enduring legacy. It remains an iconic Christmas classic and continues to be a symbol of hope, generosity, and compassion.
“(There's Gotta Be) More To Life” – Stacie Orrico
Song Year:2002
Stacie Orrico's 2002 hit single, “(There's Gotta Be) More to Life,” struck a chord with audiences all over the world with its upbeat, pop-infused sound and meaningful lyrics. The song's message of seeking fulfillment and purpose beyond material wealth resonated with listeners, reaching the top 20 on the charts and earning Orrico widespread recognition as a talented young artist.
“Stacy's Mom” – Fountains of Wayne
Song Year: 2003
Fountains of Wayne's 2003 hit single “Stacy's Mom” was an instant classic of power-pop, blending catchy melodies, witty lyrics, and a memorable music video to create a song that was both fun and thought-provoking.
The song's themes of unrequited love and the complexities of relationships made it a hit with audiences, reaching the top 40 of the charts and earning Fountains of Wayne a reputation as one of the most talented and entertaining pop-rock acts of the early 2000s. Fountains of Wayne struggled to maintain a consistent level of popularity after this, however, and is now considered a one-hit wonder.
“Never Leave You (Uh Oooh, Uh Oooh)” – Lumidee
Song Year: 2003
Lumidee's 2003 single “Never Leave You (Uh Oooh, Uh Oooh)” was a massive international hit, reaching the top 10 of charts all around the world with its catchy chorus and upbeat reggaeton-inspired sound. The song's fusion of Latin and Caribbean styles with contemporary R&B made it an instant classic of the era, although everyone quickly learned that this would be the only classic coming from Lumidee any time soon.
Despite the artists’ fading into obscurity, this track continues to be wildly popular worldwide, making it possibly one of the most listened-to one-hit wonders of all time.
“Turn Me On” – Kevin Lyttle
Song Year: 2003
Kevin Lyttle's 2003 hit single “Turn Me On” was a massive success in the world of reggae and dancehall, reaching the top 10 of charts all around the world with its catchy chorus and infectious soca-inspired sound.
The song's blend of Caribbean styles with contemporary pop and R&B made it an instant classic of the era, helping to establish Lyttle as a talented young artist with a bright future ahead. Despite its success, however, Lyttle struggled to maintain his momentum and is now considered a one-hit wonder.
“Friday” – Rebecca Black
Song Year: 2011
“Friday” by Rebecca Black was a viral sensation that took the internet by storm in 2011 with its upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus. Although widely derided for its questionable lyrics, the song was a massive commercial success and became a cultural phenomenon, earning Rebecca Black widespread recognition; recognition that would be short lived because of her infamous status.
“Gucci Gucci” – Kreayshawn
Song Year: 2011
Kreayshawn burst onto the scene in 2011 with her debut single “Gucci Gucci,” a catchy and irreverent anthem for the internet age. The song's quirky, DIY aesthetic and tongue-in-cheek lyrics quickly made it a viral sensation and helped establish Kreayshawn as a rising star in the world of hip-hop. Despite its popularity, “Gucci Gucci” remains Kreayshawn's biggest hit to date.
“Barbra Streisand” – Duck Sauce
Song Year: 2010
Dance duo Duck Sauce dropped their hit single “Barbra Streisand” in 2010, and the world was never quite the same. With its infectious beat and humorous lyrics, the song quickly rose to the top of the charts and became a staple of dance clubs and radio stations everywhere.
Altogether, it remains a beloved and timeless classic of the dance music genre, although we have yet to see anything from the duo that outshines this gem.
“Survivor” – Destiny's Child
Song Year: 2001
“Survivor” by Destiny's Child is a powerful and uplifting R&B/pop song released in 2001. The song was the title track of the group's third studio album and became a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The lyrics of “Survivor” are a statement of resilience and determination, celebrating the strength of the human spirit and the power of the human will.
The song is a powerful anthem of female empowerment, inspiring women to rise above adversity and overcome the challenges of life. The lyrics are a call to action, encouraging women to be strong, confident, and self-reliant. The message of “Survivor” resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, inspiring people to never give up, no matter how difficult the journey may be.
“Feel It Still” – Portugal. The Man
Song Year: 2017
Portugal. The Man's “Feel It Still” was released in 2017 and quickly established the band as one of the leading voices of alternative rock. The song's catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm helped it become a massive commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the charts in several countries and earning the band widespread recognition.
Despite its success, “Feel It Still” remains Portugal. The Man's biggest hit to date, solidifying their status as a one-hit wonder in the world of alternative rock. Nevertheless, the song's enduring popularity and catchy chorus continue to make it a staple of alternative rock playlists around the world.