Feature Photo: B. Kim Hagar, CC BY-SA 2.0
Putting together a list of one-hit wonders can be a bit tricky. The term “one-hit wonder” often carries a negative connotation, implying that a band or artist only achieved fleeting success. However, having just one hit does not diminish their musical accomplishments. Many bands and artists who are considered one-hit wonders have enjoyed long and successful careers, often known more for their albums than for individual singles. Any true rock fan knows there are countless bands that never had a chart-topping hit but have still become some of the most beloved names in classic rock history.
However, to the casual fan, many of the artists listed here are remembered only for their one popular single. These are groups and artists that, at least in the United States, didn’t see widespread album sales but instead made their mark with a memorable 45 or heard it on a popular compilation record or CD. Our selection focuses on songs from artists who may not have garnered a massive mainstream following but often cultivated a dedicated cult fan base and those who were also soon forgotten very quickly. Many of these songs also happen to be some of our personal favorites from the 1970s, capturing the essence of that decade’s music scene.
# 40 – “Chick-A-Boom (Don’t Ya Jes’ Love It)” – Daddy Dewdrop (1971)
We thought this one would be the perfect opener to this list. Released in 1971 on Daddy Dewdrop’s self-titled album, “Chick-A-Boom (Don’t Ya Jes’ Love It)” was written by Jerry Samuels. The song reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100.
# 39 – “Put Your Hand in the Hand” – Ocean
“Put Your Hand in the Hand” was released in 1971 by the Canadian gospel-rock band Ocean on their self-titled debut album. Written by Gene MacLellan, the song was originally recorded by Anne Murray but became a massive hit when Ocean’s version climbed to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Cash Box Top 100 chart. The song’s catchy, upbeat melody and inspirational lyrics resonated widely, making it one of the defining hits of the early 70s. Ocean’s success with “Put Your Hand in the Hand” marked the peak of their career, as the band released two albums before disbanding in 1975.
# 38 – “Billy Don’t Be a Hero” – Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods
Released in 1974, “Billy Don’t Be a Hero” became a massive hit for Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was featured on their album Billy Don’t Be a Hero and was written by Mitch Murray and Peter Callander. Its anti-war theme, set against a catchy pop-rock melody, resonated with the public during a time of social and political unrest. The song tells the story of a young man who heroically volunteers for military service despite the pleas of his loved one, only to lose his life in battle.
Interestingly, “Billy Don’t Be a Hero” was first released by the British band Paper Lace in the UK, where it also became a hit, reaching number 1 on the UK Singles Chart. However, in the U.S., Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods’ version overshadowed Paper Lace’s, becoming the more widely recognized rendition.
# 37 – Chevy Van – Sammy Johns
Thinking back about how much hitch hiked when I was a teenager in the 1970s blows my mind about how dangerous that really was. But we didn’t think like that back then. We just wanted to get where we were going, and we were too young to drive. Released in 1973 and re-released in 1975, “Chevy Van” became a soft rock hit for singer-songwriter Sammy Johns, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was featured on his self-titled debut album, Sammy Johns. Written by Johns himself, the track is often hailed as the ultimate “van song” of the 1970s, capturing the spirit of freedom and the freewheeling lifestyle of the era. The lyrics narrate a brief and carefree encounter between a hitchhiker and the narrator in his Chevy van, which resonated deeply with listeners during the time.
# 36 – “It Never Rains in Southern California” – Albert Hammond
Released in 1972, “It Never Rains in Southern California” became Albert Hammond’s signature hit, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was featured on his album of the same name and was co-written by Hammond and Mike Hazlewood. The lyrics describe the ironic struggles of an aspiring musician in Los Angeles, juxtaposing the sunny California image with the harsh realities of showbiz failure.
# 35 – Please Come To Boston – Dave Loggins
Released in 1974, “Please Come to Boston” became a soft rock classic, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and securing the top spot on the Billboard Easy Listening chart. The song was featured on Dave Loggins’ album Apprentice (In a Musical Workshop) and was written solely by Loggins himself. The narrative-driven lyrics tell the story of a man traveling from city to city—Boston, Denver, and Los Angeles—pleading with his love to join him, only to be repeatedly turned down as she asks him to come home instead.
Dave Loggins, a talented singer-songwriter and cousin to Kenny Loggins, found his greatest success with this introspective ballad. Though he released several albums and continued to work as a songwriter for others, “Please Come to Boston” remains his best-known solo hit. Over the years, the song has been covered by artists such as Reba McEntire and Kenny Chesney, adding to its enduring appeal as a poignant tale of longing and distance.
# 34 – “Lotta Love” – Nicolette Larson
“Lotta Love” was released in 1978 and became Nicolette Larson’s signature hit, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Adult Contemporary chart. The song was featured on her debut album, Nicolette, and was written by Neil Young, who originally recorded the song himself before Larson’s version brought it mainstream success. Larson’s rendition is marked by its bright, pop-rock arrangement, complete with a prominent saxophone riff and upbeat rhythm that distinguished it from Young’s more subdued original.
Larson’s vibrant vocals and the song’s sunny production captured the late ’70s California sound, earning her widespread recognition. Despite releasing several albums and collaborating extensively with prominent artists like Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, Larson never replicated the chart success of “Lotta Love.”
Read More: Top 10 Nicolette Larson Songs
# 33 –“I Can Help” – Billy Swan
Released in 1974, “I Can Help” was a breakout hit for singer-songwriter Billy Swan. Written by Swan himself and produced by Chip Young, the song became an instant success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Hot Country Singles charts. The track was featured on Swan’s debut album, I Can Help, and is known for its catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and distinctive keyboard riff played on a Farfisa organ.
Billy Swan recorded the song in a single take at Young’un Sound Studio in Nashville, with an informal and spontaneous vibe that contributed to its charm. The song’s easy-going style and relatable lyrics about offering a helping hand struck a chord with audiences worldwide, and it topped the charts in several countries, including Canada, Australia, and Norway.
“I Can Help” was not only a career-defining hit for Billy Swan but also a staple of 1970s pop and country music. While Swan never replicated the same level of commercial success with subsequent releases, he remained an influential figure in the music industry, known for his songwriting and collaborations with artists like Kris Kristofferson and Carl Perkins.
# 32 – “Tighter, Tighter” – Alive ‘N Kickin’
Released in 1970, “Tighter, Tighter” became the standout hit for the Brooklyn-based band Alive ‘N Kickin’. Written and produced by Tommy James of Tommy James and the Shondells along with Bob King, the song peaked at number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving the band their first and only major chart success. The track was released on the album Alive ‘N Kickin’ and showcases a blend of pop rock and blue-eyed soul, characterized by the distinct lead vocals of Pepe Cardona and Sandy Toder.
# 31 – “Gold” – John Stewart
“Gold” was released in 1979 as part of John Stewart’s album Bombs Away Dream Babies. The song was co-written by Stewart, a former member of the folk group The Kingston Trio, and became his biggest solo hit. Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac contributed backing vocals, and Lindsey Buckingham played guitar on the track, adding to its polished, pop-rock appeal. “Gold” reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a high point in Stewart’s career. We almost didn’t want to put John Stewart on this list because he is released so many albums and have such a long career but the fact is he only had one big hit in the United States and it was this one.
# 30 – “Midnight At The Oasis” – Maria Muldaur
Released in 1973 on the album Maria Muldaur, the song was written by David Nichtern and reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Maria Muldaur’s sultry vocals helped make the song a timeless hit, and it was later featured in films like The Ice Storm.
# 29 – Kung Fu Fighting – Carl Douglas
“Kung Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas was released in 1974 and became a surprise global hit. The song was written by Douglas and producer Biddu and was included on his album Kung Fu Fighting and Other Great Love Songs. It topped the charts in the United States, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and also hit number one in the UK, Canada, Australia, and several other countries. With its infectious disco beat and catchy martial arts-themed lyrics, the song captured the era’s fascination with kung fu movies, making it an iconic track of the 1970s. Despite Douglas releasing other singles, none matched the success of “Kung Fu Fighting,” which remains his only top forty hit
# 28 – “Nice to Be with You” – Gallery (1972)
Written by Jim Gold and released in 1972 on Gallery’s album of the same name, “Nice to Be with You” reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Easy Listening chart. The song’s breezy, feel-good vibe captured the laid-back spirit of the era, making it Gallery’s standout hit and a defining track of early ’70s pop.
# 27 – “Driver’s Seat” – Sniff ‘n’ the Tears (1978)
“Driver’s Seat,” released in 1978 on the album Fickle Heart, was written by the band’s lead singer Paul Roberts. The song became a surprise hit, reaching number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. Sniff ‘n’ the Tears released several albums, and while “Driver’s Seat” remains their only significant U.S. hit, it has maintained a lasting appeal, often featured in films like Boogie Nights.
# 26 – “Thunder Island” – Jay Ferguson (1978)
Released in 1978 on the album of the same name, “Thunder Island” was written by Jay Ferguson, a former member of Spirit and Jo Jo Gunne. The song reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 and became Ferguson’s signature hit. Over his career, Ferguson released a handful of solo albums and later transitioned into composing music for television and film, including the theme for The Office.
# 25 –“My Angel Baby” – Toby Beau (1978)
“My Angel Baby,” released in 1978 on the album Toby Beau, was co-written by band members Danny McKenna and Balde Silva. The song became a major hit, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. Toby Beau released a few albums throughout their career, but this song was their standout success, capturing the soft rock vibe of the late ’70s.
# 24 – “Dancin’ Shoes” – Nigel Olsson (1978)
Nigel Olsson, best known as Elton John’s longtime drummer, released “Dancin’ Shoes” in 1978 on his album Nigel. Written by Carl Storie, the song reached number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100. Olsson enjoyed moderate solo success alongside his work with Elton John, releasing several albums and singles, though none matched the popularity of “Dancin’ Shoes.”
# 23 – “Magnet and Steel” – Walter Egan (1978)
Walter Egan released “Magnet and Steel” in 1978 on his album Not Shy, with the song co-written by Egan and inspired by Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks. The track became Egan’s biggest hit, reaching number eight on the Billboard Hot 100. Egan released several albums, and although none matched the success of “Magnet and Steel,” he remained active in the music industry as a songwriter and performer.
# 22 – “The Night Chicago Died” – Paper Lace
Released in 1974 on the album Paper Lace and Other Bits of Material, the song was written by Peter Callander and Mitch Murray. It reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains the band’s most famous track. Paper Lace, a UK band, was also known for “Billy Don’t Be a Hero.”
# 6 – “How Long” – Ace
Released in 1974 on the album Five-A-Side, “How Long” was written by lead vocalist Paul Carrack. The song reached number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Carrack later had a successful solo career and was a key member of bands like Squeeze and Mike + The Mechanics.
# 5 – “Shannon” – Henry Gross (1976)
Released in 1976 on the album Release, “Shannon” was written by Henry Gross and was inspired by the death of Beach Boys member Carl Wilson’s Irish Setter, Shannon. The song became a hit, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100. Henry Gross, formerly of the band Sha Na Na, released several albums throughout his career but “Shannon” remains his most well-known single.
# 4 –“Moonlight Feels Right” – Starbuck (1976)
Released in 1976, “Moonlight Feels Right” was the debut single from Starbuck, appearing on their album of the same name. Written by the band’s lead vocalist and keyboardist, Bruce Blackman, the song became a defining hit of the summer of ’76, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Starbuck, known for their fusion of pop rock and jazz influences, released three albums during their career, but “Moonlight Feels Right” remained their most successful track.
# 3 – “Hold Your Head Up” – Argent
“Hold Your Head Up” was released in 1972 by the British rock band Argent on their third studio album, All Together Now. The song was written by band members Rod Argent and Chris White and became the group’s biggest hit. It reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and peaked at number 5 in the UK Singles Chart, solidifying Argent’s place in the early 70s rock scene. Rod Argent, the band’s namesake, was already well-known for his earlier success with The Zombies, having co-written hits like “She’s Not There” and “Time of the Season.”
# 2 – “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” – Looking Glass
Released in 1972, “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” was featured on Looking Glass’s self-titled debut album. Written by band member Elliot Lurie, the song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This catchy track tells the story of a barmaid named Brandy and her unrequited love for a sailor who remains devoted to the sea. Looking Glass released two albums and had a few minor hits, but none matched the commercial success of “Brandy.” The song’s enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in various movies, including Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, cementing its status as a classic pop-rock anthem of the early ’70s.
# 1 – My Sharona – The Knack
I think we got the number spot right with this one. Released in 1979, “My Sharona” was the lead single from The Knack’s debut album, Get the Knack. Written by lead vocalist Doug Fieger and guitarist Berton Averre, the song became an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for six weeks. Inspired by Fieger’s real-life romance with Sharona Alperin, the song’s infectious hook and punchy guitar riff made it a defining track of the power pop genre and one of the most recognizable hits of the late ’70s. The song’s provocative lyrics, coupled with Fieger’s energetic vocal delivery, captured the rebellious spirit of the time.
Recorded at MCA Whitney Studios in Glendale, California, and produced by Mike Chapman, known for his work with Blondie and Sweet, “My Sharona” was a commercial triumph and a cultural touchstone, bringing The Knack both massive fame and criticism for its perceived exploitation of teen lust. Despite its success, The Knack struggled to maintain their momentum, and while they released several more albums, none matched the impact of their debut hit.
“My Sharona” has been covered by various artists and has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, most notably in the movie Reality Bites (1994), which helped revive the song’s popularity in the ’90s.
40 Of Our Favorite One-Hit Wonders Songs Of The 1970s article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
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