The 1980s were a fertile ground for "one-hit wonders," those artists who achieved significant success with a single song, but then struggled to replicate that success. This era, with its explosion of new wave, synth-pop, and diverse musical styles, provided a unique backdrop for these fleeting moments of stardom. Here's a brief overview:
Diversity of Genres:
The 80s one-hit wonders spanned a wide range of genres, from synth-pop and new wave to rock, dance, and even novelty songs. This diversity reflects the eclectic nature of the decade's music scene.
You'll find examples like the synth-driven "I Ran (So Far Away)" by A Flock of Seagulls, the new wave energy of "Come On Eileen" by Dexys Midnight Runners, and the catchy pop of "867-5309/Jenny" by Tommy Tutone.
The Influence of MTV:
The rise of MTV played a significant role in the success of many one-hit wonders. A visually striking music video could propel a song to the top of the charts, even if the artist had little prior recognition.
This visual element helped to define the 80's music scene.
Technological Advancements:
The widespread use of synthesizers and drum machines created new sonic landscapes, contributing to the unique sound of many 80s one-hit wonders.
The 80s one-hit wonders provide a nostalgic glimpse into a vibrant and experimental era of music history.
6
10 comments
The last great decade
Agreed
Oh how can I forget a song that became a bane of my graveyard shifts in the local gas station.
Good one!!!
Not sure if this would count either but
@hippiechick1967 I didnt think they would, I just couldnt for the life of me remember any others. As stated above I was born in the early 80's so I'm more a 90's.
However, one that I can think that song that was a one hit wonder, but has a multi generational impact through other artists I can think of.
Yes, Jefferson Starship evolved from Jefferson Airplane. The later has been said they sold out to pop, but I like it just the same. The also had another hit that was used in the movie soundtrack for the movie Mannequin but by then they were just going by Starship.
@CallMeMrWrong69 Oh that movie lol okay
@hippiechick1967 Tainted Love my band ended up playing as an impromptu encore one show we played. lol Good times it was a lot of fun that show.
I can't say I have heard this song before. Thank you for the introduction to new music. <3
@hippiechick1967 This one I can say I have heard before. Wow flash backs. lmao.
A one hit wonder is a lot down to perspective. In terms of the American charts, Sexys Midnight Runners are a one hit wonder with Come on Eileen. But here Dexys Midnight Runners had many hit singles and albums.
Although I was just a pup when Mtv premiered its one of my earliest memories. Video Killed The Radio Star. Idk why it was burned into my memory. Then seeing Ah Ha's Take On Me. Coming from a Country music only family at least when my dad was home. As my mom would let us listen to some of her old LPs. I would sneak Mtv on here and there, and my love of music along with the need to always seek out new forms of was born then. I remember in Jr. High being able to go to the CD store in the town just north of my hometown and picking up a cd that was One Hit Wonders, can't for the life of me remember all the songs that were on there, but a good grip of ones you named were there.
Some of which I will sing and not care what people think as if I am singing ya know I am in a good mood.
Now I am going to go put on some of those tunes and burn the midnight candles away.
Thanks for the trip down memory lane. <3
During the 80's and 90's, my best bud and I had a mobile DJ gig we would do. I listen to a lot of stuff, so this time period was what I enjoyed the most. Listening to this one hit wonders bring back fond memories of where I was and with whom.
@CallMeMrWrong69 Although not exactly a one hit wonder unless you count the only song they charted with in the US Somewhere Out There, Our Lady Peace does that to me as with each album since Clumsy and my first time hearing Superman's Dead, their music hitting spot on for me in how I felt in life and things that were going on at the time of each albums release. Their song Life I feel as if it should be in a daily playlist. As the message behind it is one of perseverance and knowing that we will survive.
@81GLantern I am sure there are more one hit wonders of that era that are not mentioned.
This one got left out:
I am sure there are a lot more.