Back in Time Today
The 1970s was a vibrant decade filled with unforgettable music. While many artists achieved lasting fame, numerous others made their mark with just one hit.
These one-hit wonders left a lasting impression on those who grew up during this era, with tunes that are still celebrated today.
Dive into this nostalgic list of 20 one-hit wonders every ’70s kid will remember, and relive the magic of the music that defined a generation.
From catchy melodies to unforgettable lyrics, these songs hold a special place in the hearts of those who experienced the ’70s firsthand.
1. Play That Funky Music – Wild Cherry
Wild Cherry’s 1976 hit “Play That Funky Music” became an anthem for disco lovers and partygoers of the ’70s. The Ohio-based band, led by Rob Parissi, fused rock and funk to create an unforgettable groove.
Despite its massive success, Wild Cherry struggled to replicate the magic of this track, leaving “Play That Funky Music” as their only major hit. The song’s infectious beat and catchy lyrics continue to inspire dance floors across generations.
Its legacy is a testament to the era’s vibrant music scene, capturing the spirit of fun and celebration that defined the disco era.
2. Afternoon Delight – Starland Vocal Band
“Afternoon Delight” by Starland Vocal Band captured the laid-back, carefree spirit of the ’70s with its harmonious vocals and catchy melody. Released in 1976, it quickly rose to the top of the charts, becoming a defining song of the era.
The band’s smooth sound and playful lyrics resonated with listeners, making “Afternoon Delight” an enduring favorite.
Despite its success, Starland Vocal Band couldn’t maintain their momentum, and the song remains their most memorable contribution to the music world. Its lighthearted charm still delights audiences today.
3. My Sharona – The Knack
“My Sharona” by The Knack burst onto the music scene in 1979, quickly becoming a rock anthem with its catchy beat and unforgettable guitar riff. The song’s infectious energy made it an instant classic, capturing the essence of youthful rebellion.
Frontman Doug Fieger’s charismatic performance and the band’s tight sound propelled “My Sharona” to the top of the charts.
Though The Knack struggled to replicate its success, the song remains a beloved staple of rock playlists. It’s a testament to the power of a well-crafted tune to capture the zeitgeist of an era.
4. Spirit in the Sky – Norman Greenbaum
Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit in the Sky” is a timeless classic that resonated with audiences in the 1970s and beyond. Released in 1969, it became a hit in 1970, blending gospel-inspired lyrics with rock music.
The song’s distinctive guitar riff and spiritual themes struck a chord with listeners, earning it a lasting place in the cultural zeitgeist.
Greenbaum, however, didn’t achieve the same level of success with his subsequent work, leaving “Spirit in the Sky” as his defining hit. Its uplifting message and unique sound continue to inspire music lovers.
5. Come and Get Your Love – Redbone
Redbone’s “Come and Get Your Love,” released in 1974, brought a unique flair to the rock genre with its blend of Native American rhythms and catchy melodies. The song quickly climbed the charts, resonating with a wide audience.
Redbone’s vibrant stage presence and infectious energy made them a standout act of the ’70s. Despite their talent, they struggled to maintain their initial success.
“Come and Get Your Love” remains their most iconic song, celebrated for its joyful sound and cultural significance. It continues to be a favorite on nostalgic playlists.
6. Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl) – Looking Glass
“Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass is a quintessential ’70s tune that tells the poignant story of a barmaid longing for love. Released in 1972, the song’s catchy chorus and storytelling lyrics struck a chord with listeners.
Looking Glass, with its smooth sound and relatable themes, captured the hearts of many. Despite the song’s success, the band struggled to replicate its hit status.
“Brandy” remains a beloved classic, its tale of love and longing enduring through the decades. It captures the romantic spirit of the ’70s music scene.
7. In the Summertime – Mungo Jerry
Mungo Jerry’s “In the Summertime” epitomizes the carefree and laid-back vibe of the ’70s. Released in 1970, the song’s infectious rhythm and feel-good lyrics made it a worldwide hit.
Ray Dorset’s charismatic performance and the band’s unique sound captured the essence of summer, resonating with audiences across generations.
Despite the enduring popularity of “In the Summertime,” Mungo Jerry struggled to achieve similar success with subsequent releases. The song remains a timeless anthem, celebrated for its joyful celebration of sunny days and good times.
8. Hooked on a Feeling – Blue Swede
Blue Swede’s rendition of “Hooked on a Feeling” became an unexpected hit in 1974, with its catchy “ooga-chaka” chant and upbeat sound. The Swedish band brought a unique flair to the song, making it an international sensation.
Their version of the song, originally by B.J. Thomas, reached new heights of popularity, resonating with a wide audience.
Despite the success of “Hooked on a Feeling,” Blue Swede struggled to maintain their momentum, and the song remains their most memorable hit. Its catchy tune and distinctive style continue to charm listeners.
9. Dancing in the Moonlight – King Harvest
“Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest is a feel-good anthem that has stood the test of time. Released in 1972, the song’s smooth melody and uplifting lyrics captured the carefree spirit of the era.
The band’s harmonious sound and relatable themes resonated with listeners, making it a beloved hit.
Despite their success with “Dancing in the Moonlight,” King Harvest struggled to achieve similar acclaim with later releases. The song remains an enduring favorite, celebrated for its joyful embrace of life’s simple pleasures and carefree spirit.
10. Black Betty – Ram Jam
Ram Jam’s “Black Betty” burst onto the rock scene in 1977 with its high-energy beat and powerful vocals. The song’s driving rhythm and distinctive sound made it an instant hit, capturing the rebellious spirit of the ’70s rock scene.
Despite its success, Ram Jam struggled to replicate the song’s popularity with their subsequent work.
“Black Betty” remains their most iconic track, celebrated for its raw energy and memorable hooks. It continues to be a staple at rock events, demonstrating the enduring appeal of classic rock music.
11. The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia – Vicki Lawrence
“The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” by Vicki Lawrence became a surprise hit in 1972, with its haunting narrative and soulful delivery. The song’s intriguing storyline captivated audiences, drawing them into its tale of mystery and revenge.
Lawrence’s powerful performance brought the lyrics to life, earning it a place on the charts.
Despite its success, Vicki Lawrence didn’t achieve the same level of fame with her later releases. The song remains a memorable classic, celebrated for its storytelling and dramatic flair.
12. The Hustle – Van McCoy
Van McCoy’s “The Hustle” became synonymous with the disco era, capturing the essence of ’70s dance culture with its iconic rhythm. Released in 1975, the instrumental track quickly rose to fame, inspiring a dance craze that swept the nation.
McCoy’s masterful production and catchy melody ensured its place as a timeless favorite.
Despite his success with “The Hustle,” McCoy struggled to achieve the same acclaim with his subsequent work. The song remains a beloved anthem of the disco movement, celebrated for its irresistible beat and danceability.
13. Stuck in the Middle with You – Stealers Wheel
“Stuck in the Middle with You” by Stealers Wheel became a classic ’70s hit with its catchy tune and relatable lyrics. Released in 1972, the song’s witty commentary on social situations resonated with audiences.
The band’s engaging sound and clever lyrics made it a standout track of the era.
Despite the song’s success, Stealers Wheel struggled to maintain their momentum, and “Stuck in the Middle with You” remains their most iconic hit. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the universal appeal of its themes.
14. Video Killed the Radio Star – The Buggles
“Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles became an iconic anthem of the technological era, released in 1979. The song’s futuristic sound and prophetic lyrics captured the imagination of listeners, marking a shift in the music industry.
The Buggles’ innovative approach and catchy melody ensured its place as a memorable hit.
Despite the success of “Video Killed the Radio Star,” the band struggled to replicate its impact. The song remains a defining track of the ’70s, celebrated for its visionary message and catchy tune.
15. Seasons in the Sun – Terry Jacks
Terry Jacks’ “Seasons in the Sun” touched hearts in 1974 with its poignant lyrics and gentle melody. The song’s reflective themes of life and farewell resonated deeply with listeners, earning it a lasting place in the music world.
Jacks’ heartfelt performance and the song’s emotional depth made it a standout hit.
Despite its success, Jacks struggled to achieve similar acclaim with his later work. “Seasons in the Sun” remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its touching narrative and enduring emotional impact.
16. Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) – Edison Lighthouse
Edison Lighthouse’s “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” became a romantic anthem of the ’70s with its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. Released in 1970, the song quickly rose to fame, capturing the essence of young love.
The band’s charming sound and relatable themes resonated with audiences, making it a memorable hit.
Despite its success, Edison Lighthouse struggled to maintain their momentum, and the song remains their most iconic track. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the universal appeal of its romantic message.
17. Magnet and Steel – Walter Egan
Walter Egan’s “Magnet and Steel,” released in 1978, captured the essence of ’70s soft rock with its smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song’s romantic themes and catchy tune resonated with listeners, making it a memorable hit.
Egan’s charismatic performance and the song’s polished production ensured its place on the charts.
Despite the success of “Magnet and Steel,” Egan struggled to replicate its impact with later releases. The song remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its timeless appeal and emotional depth.
18. Pop Muzik – M
“Pop Muzik” by M, released in 1979, became a defining hit of the late ’70s with its infectious beat and innovative sound. The song’s catchy chorus and futuristic vibe captured the zeitgeist of the era, resonating with audiences worldwide.
M’s unique style and energetic performance ensured its place as a standout track.
Despite its success, M struggled to achieve similar acclaim with subsequent releases. “Pop Muzik” remains a beloved anthem of the ’70s, celebrated for its playful energy and forward-thinking sound.
19. Cruel to Be Kind – Nick Lowe
Nick Lowe’s “Cruel to Be Kind,” released in 1979, captured the essence of power pop with its upbeat melody and clever lyrics. The song’s catchy chorus and relatable themes made it a hit, resonating with listeners.
Lowe’s engaging performance and the song’s polished production ensured its success on the charts.
Despite its popularity, Lowe struggled to maintain the same level of fame with later releases. “Cruel to Be Kind” remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its timeless charm and witty storytelling.
20. Funkytown – Lipps Inc.
Lipps Inc.’s “Funkytown,” released in 1979, became an iconic disco hit with its catchy melody and futuristic sound. The song’s irresistible beat and energetic vibe captured the spirit of the disco era, making it a dance floor favorite.
Lipps Inc.’s innovative approach and lively performance ensured its place as a memorable track.
Despite the success of “Funkytown,” the band struggled to replicate its impact with later releases. The song remains a beloved anthem of the ’70s, celebrated for its infectious energy and enduring appeal.