Memorable One-Hit Wonders From The ‘70s — Do You Remember Them?

The ‘70s was a memorable era in the music scene, with the likes of the Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, Aerosmith, The Eagles, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath taking over the airwaves at the time. Disco, funk, soul music and smooth jazz were top choices at the time, while rock and its sub-genres were thriving more than ever.

While many artists and bands formed the staple sounds of the decades, some are only remembered for their one-time hits and never replicated such success since their single charting song. Here are some one-hit wonders from the ‘70s you should know:

‘Afternoon Delight’ by Starland Vocal Band

The Starland Vocal Band earned recognition as “Best New Artist” with this 1978 release that hit number one on the U.S. and Canada charts. “Afternoon Delight” was the last successful song from the group prior to their split in 1981.

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‘Beach Baby’ by The First Class

This song has listeners, including The Beach Boys, thinking the British band was Californian. “Beach Baby” by The First Class topped the charts in Canada and peaked at number 4 in the US, thanks to its catchy bubblegum pop vibe. The Beach Boys acknowledged the sound at the time, as it sounded similar to their creations.

‘Black Betty’ by Ram Jam

Ram Jam released “Black Betty” in 1977, which caught the interest of most in the U.S. and Australia. However, its immediate success was not enough to keep the group on the map.

‘Chevy Van’ by Sammy Johns

Sammy Johns’ 1975 release, “Chevy Van,” peaked at number five on the US Billboard charts and has been covered by several other artists, including Waylon Jennings. The song about a driver having a one-night stand with a hitchhiker showcased Johns’ talent to the world but for a fleeting period.

‘Emotion’ by Samantha Sang

Samantha Sang collaborated with the Bees Gees on “Emotion” in 1977, and while her incredible talent was undeniable, the band’s presence may have contributed to the song’s success, too. The single was among the top three hits of that year in the US and Australia, after which not much was heard about Samantha.

‘Hot Child in the City’ by Nick Gilder

Nick Gilder released “Hot Child In The City” as a member of Sweeney Todd, and it was named Single of the Year in 1978. The track also reached number one on the US and Canada Billboard chart.

‘How Long’ by Ace

Ace released “How Long” in 1974, running up the song to number 3 in the U..S and Canada at the time. Paul Carrack would then remake the single in 1996, which would again appear on the Billboard Hot 100.

‘Knock on Wood’ by Amii Stewart

One of these one-hit wonders helped Amii Stewart taste fame for a moment, specifically with a cover of Eddie Floyd’s song before becoming a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. “Knock On Wood” hit number one in the US and Canada in 1979.

‘The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia’ by Vicki Lawrence

Vicki Lawrence proved she was an admirable singer with 1973’s “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” as she was mostly recognized for her acting prowess alongside Carol Burnett. The release was a success upon release, and Reba McEntire also popularized it in the ‘90s by making her own version.

‘Play That Funky Music’ by Wild Cherry

Wild Cherry’s reunion in the late ‘70s birthed their only number-one hit, “Play That Funky Music.” They soon split up again, but their success with the funk-rock disco hit remains memorable.

Which of these one-hit wonders are your favorite?