Here’s a nostalgic dive into the Top 20 ’80s One-Hit Wonders You Forgot Were Awesome—songs that defined a moment but whose artists faded from the spotlight soon after. Whether you’re rediscovering old favorites or hearing them for the first time, these ’80s one-hit wonders prove that even fleeting success can leave a lasting impact! These tracks may only have had one brush with mainstream success, but they remain unforgettable gems of the ’80s.
“Take On Me” – A-ha (1985)
Details: Known for its groundbreaking music video featuring rotoscope animation, this Norwegian synth-pop classic topped charts worldwide.
Why It’s Awesome: The infectious melody, Morten Harket’s soaring vocals, and that iconic high note!
Fun Fact: Despite A-ha being a one-hit wonder in the U.S., they had a long, successful career in Europe.
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“Come on Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners (1982)
Details: A blend of Celtic folk and pop, this track hit No. 1 in multiple countries, including the U.S. and UK.
Why It’s Awesome: The rousing tempo changes and infectious energy make it a dancefloor favorite.
Fun Fact: The song was inspired by Kevin Rowland’s teenage experiences.
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“Tainted Love” – Soft Cell (1981)
Details: Originally a 1960s soul song by Gloria Jones, Soft Cell’s synth-driven version became a massive hit.
Why It’s Awesome: Its dark, brooding vibe and catchy beat make it a quintessential ’80s track.
Fun Fact: The song spent a record 43 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100.
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“99 Luftballons” – Nena (1983)
Details: This anti-war anthem, sung in German, became a worldwide hit thanks to its infectious melody and political message.
Why It’s Awesome: The unique fusion of pop and protest resonated with a Cold War-era audience.
Fun Fact: There’s an English version, but it didn’t match the success of the original.
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“I Ran (So Far Away)” – A Flock of Seagulls (1982)
Details: With its spacey synths and futuristic vibe, this track became an MTV staple.
Why It’s Awesome: The combination of new wave sound and unforgettable hairstyle made it an ’80s icon.
Fun Fact: The band’s unique hairstyle is as famous as their music!
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“Video Killed the Radio Star” – The Buggles (1979)
Details: While technically released in 1979, this song’s influence peaked in the ’80s after being the first video ever played on MTV.
Why It’s Awesome: A futuristic lament for old media, perfectly capturing the era’s obsession with technology.
Fun Fact: The Buggles were a studio creation and didn’t tour much after the song’s success.
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“Mickey” – Toni Basil (1981)
Details: This cheerleader anthem topped the U.S. charts and became synonymous with 1980s pop culture.
Why It’s Awesome: The catchy chorus and energetic rhythm still make it a karaoke favorite.
Fun Fact: Toni Basil was 39 years old when the song became a hit, a rarity in the pop world.
“I Melt with You” – Modern English (1982)
Details: A staple of 1980s teen movie soundtracks, this song captured the euphoric feelings of young love.
Why It’s Awesome: The dreamy guitar riff and heartfelt lyrics make it a timeless classic.
Fun Fact: The song gained cult status after being featured in the film Valley Girl.
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“Turning Japanese” – The Vapors (1980)
Details: With its catchy hook and controversial lyrics, this song became an unexpected hit.
Why It’s Awesome: Its quirky sound and upbeat tempo made it an instant favorite on the radio.
Fun Fact: Despite speculation, the band insists the song is not about any controversial subjects, but rather feelings of alienation.
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“She Blinded Me with Science” – Thomas Dolby (1982)
Details: A quirky mix of new wave and synth-pop, this track became a massive MTV hit.
Why It’s Awesome: The playful theme, oddball lyrics, and Dolby’s mad scientist persona made it a standout.
Fun Fact: Dolby went on to a successful career in music technology after this hit.
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“Electric Avenue” – Eddy Grant (1982)
Details: This reggae-infused track about social unrest in London became an international hit.
Why It’s Awesome: The infectious rhythm and political undertones gave it depth beyond a typical pop song.
Fun Fact: The title refers to a street in Brixton, London, that was the site of race riots.
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“I Want Candy” – Bow Wow Wow (1982)
Details: Originally a 1960s hit by The Strangeloves, Bow Wow Wow’s version became a pop culture staple.
Why It’s Awesome: The upbeat rhythm and infectious energy make it impossible not to dance to.
Fun Fact: Lead singer Annabella Lwin was only 15 years old when the song was recorded.
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“Take Me Home Tonight” – Eddie Money (1986)
Details: A power ballad featuring vocals from Ronnie Spector, this song became Eddie Money’s biggest hit.
Why It’s Awesome: The nostalgic nod to ’60s girl groups combined with ’80s rock made it unforgettable.
Fun Fact: The chorus is a tribute to the Ronettes’ hit Be My Baby.
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Too Shy” – Kajagoogoo (1983)
Details: With its smooth bassline and catchy melody, this new wave hit dominated the charts.
Why It’s Awesome: The song’s irresistible hook and clean production make it an ’80s gem.
Fun Fact: Kajagoogoo’s lead singer Limahl went on to perform the theme for The NeverEnding Story.
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“Pass the Dutchie” – Musical Youth (1982)
Details: A reggae-inspired track performed by a group of kids from the UK, this became an international sensation.
Why It’s Awesome: Its irresistible beat and youthful energy made it a dance floor favorite.
Fun Fact: The song was a cleaned-up version of a song about smoking marijuana, replacing “kouchie” with “dutchie,” referring to a Dutch cooking pot.
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“Funky Town” – Lipps Inc. (1980)
Details: This disco-influenced track was one of the last major hits of the disco era.
Why It’s Awesome: The infectious beat and futuristic sound kept dance floors packed.
Fun Fact: Despite being known for this one hit, Lipps Inc. had several other successful tracks in the dance charts.
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“In a Big Country” – Big Country (1983)
Details: With its bagpipe-like guitar riffs, this track became an anthem for ’80s rock lovers.
Why It’s Awesome: The soaring chorus and unique instrumental sound set it apart from other rock songs of the era.
Fun Fact: The band used guitar effects to emulate traditional Scottish instruments.
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“The Safety Dance” – Men Without Hats (1982)
Details: This quirky synth-pop anthem encouraged freedom of expression and became a club favorite.
Why It’s Awesome: The infectious melody and bizarrely fun music video made it a cultural staple.
Fun Fact: The song’s lyrics were a response to clubs banning pogo dancing due to safety concerns.
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“Everybody’s Got to Learn Sometime” – The Korgis (1980)
Details: A haunting ballad that charted in the UK and US, this song showcased emotional vulnerability.
Why It’s Awesome: Its simple yet powerful melody still resonates decades later.
Fun Fact: The song has been covered by artists from Beck to Zucchero.
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“Relax” – Frankie Goes to Hollywood (1983)
Details: Banned by the BBC for its suggestive lyrics, this track nonetheless became a huge hit.
Why It’s Awesome: The driving beat and bold message made it an anthem of the decade.
Fun Fact: The controversy surrounding the song only fueled its success.
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