Top 20 One-Hit Wonders From The 2010s: A Nostalgic Trip

The 2010s were a wild time for music, weren't they? We saw the rise of streaming, the explosion of EDM, and a constant churn of new artists vying for our attention. In this whirlwind of musical innovation and trends, many songs became massive hits, but only a select few artists managed to replicate that success. This brings us to the fascinating world of one-hit wonders – those artists who captured our ears and hearts with a single, unforgettable track, only to fade from the limelight shortly thereafter. Let's dive into a nostalgic journey and revisit 20 of the most memorable one-hit wonders from the 2010s, exploring the songs that defined a moment in time and the stories behind their fleeting fame. We’ll look at the catchiness of the tunes, the cultural impact they had, and why they remain stuck in our heads even today. Prepare for some serious flashbacks as we revisit these gems from the recent past. You might be surprised at how many of these you still remember word-for-word! So, buckle up, turn up the volume, and let's get started on this trip down memory lane.

1. Gotye ft. Kimbra - "Somebody That I Used to Know" (2011)

Let's kick things off with a track that was absolutely inescapable in 2011: Gotye's "Somebody That I Used to Know," featuring Kimbra. Guys, this song was everywhere! It's a hauntingly beautiful breakup anthem that resonated with millions, thanks to its distinctive minimalist arrangement, Gotye's emotive vocals, and Kimbra's striking harmonies. The song's music video, with its body-painting concept, was equally captivating and helped propel it to viral status. "Somebody That I Used to Know" topped charts globally, earning Gotye and Kimbra numerous awards and accolades. The song's success was truly meteoric, but Gotye, an experimental musician at heart, seemed less interested in chasing mainstream fame. While he continued to release music, none of his subsequent tracks achieved the same level of commercial success. This makes "Somebody That I Used to Know" a quintessential one-hit wonder, a song that perfectly captured a specific moment in time and remains a powerful reminder of heartbreak and lost connections. The layered vocals and the lyrical narrative made it a standout track, setting it apart from the typical pop fare of the time. It was a song that you could both dance and cry to, a rare combination that contributed to its widespread appeal. The impact of this song is still felt today, as it frequently appears in movies, TV shows, and even memes, proving its lasting cultural relevance.

2. Carly Rae Jepsen - "Call Me Maybe" (2011)

Next up, we have Carly Rae Jepsen's "Call Me Maybe," the epitome of a 2010s bubblegum pop anthem. This infectious tune swept the globe in 2011 and 2012, thanks to its unbelievably catchy chorus and relatable lyrics about having a crush. If you weren’t singing “Hey, I just met you, and this is crazy…” back then, where were you? Seriously. "Call Me Maybe" benefited from a perfect storm of factors, including its viral music video featuring Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez, which amplified its reach exponentially. The song topped charts in numerous countries, becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. While Carly Rae Jepsen has released several albums since "Call Me Maybe," earning critical acclaim for her synth-pop sensibilities, none of her subsequent singles have reached the same stratospheric heights. Nevertheless, she has cultivated a dedicated fan base and continues to create excellent music. "Call Me Maybe" remains her signature song, an undeniable earworm that instantly transports you back to the early 2010s. The simplicity of the melody combined with the relatability of the lyrics made it a perfect storm for pop success. It was the kind of song that you couldn't help but sing along to, and its upbeat tempo made it ideal for parties and road trips. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.

3. PSY - "Gangnam Style" (2012)

No discussion of 2010s one-hit wonders would be complete without mentioning PSY's "Gangnam Style." This K-pop sensation took the world by storm in 2012 with its ridiculously catchy melody, quirky dance moves, and over-the-top music video. "Gangnam Style" was the first YouTube video to reach one billion views, and it went on to become a global phenomenon, introducing K-pop to a mainstream audience in a way that no song had done before. PSY, already a well-known artist in South Korea, became an international superstar overnight. While he released follow-up singles, none achieved the same viral success as "Gangnam Style." The song's impact, however, cannot be overstated. It broke down barriers between cultures and demonstrated the power of the internet to propel music to global fame. "Gangnam Style" was more than just a song; it was a cultural moment, a phenomenon that transcended language and borders. The horse-riding dance became a global craze, and the song was played at parties and events all over the world. Its infectious energy and unique style made it an instant classic, and it remains one of the most iconic viral hits of all time.

4. Baauer - "Harlem Shake" (2012)

Remember the "Harlem Shake" craze of 2012? Baauer's instrumental track spawned countless viral videos, each featuring a group of people initially standing still before erupting into chaotic dancing when the beat dropped. It was a meme in musical form, and it dominated the internet for weeks. The song itself is a trap banger, a raw and energetic track that's perfect for letting loose. While Baauer has continued to produce music, "Harlem Shake" remains his biggest hit, forever associated with the viral video phenomenon it inspired. The beauty of the “Harlem Shake” was its simplicity – anyone could participate, and the videos were often hilarious and unpredictable. This accessibility contributed to its rapid spread across social media platforms. The song became synonymous with the meme, and its impact on internet culture is undeniable. While the craze eventually faded, “Harlem Shake” remains a cultural touchstone, a reminder of the power of viral trends and the internet's ability to turn a song into a global sensation.

5. Gotye ft. Kimbra - "Somebody That I Used to Know" (2011) (Revisited)

Yes, we're circling back to Gotye and Kimbra because "Somebody That I Used to Know" truly deserves a second mention! This track's impact was so profound that it solidified its place as a defining song of the decade. The raw emotion conveyed in the lyrics, combined with the unique instrumentation and the captivating music video, created a perfect storm for success. What makes this song a quintessential one-hit wonder isn't just the lack of subsequent hits from Gotye, but also the depth of its connection with listeners. It tapped into universal feelings of heartbreak and the complexities of relationships, resonating with a wide audience. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality, and it continues to be rediscovered by new generations of music lovers. It’s a masterclass in songwriting and arrangement, showcasing how a simple melody and powerful lyrics can create a lasting impact. The song’s legacy extends beyond its chart success, cementing its place in the cultural lexicon as a go-to track for portraying the pain and confusion of a breakup.

6 - 20: More Memorable One-Hit Wonders

Now, let's quickly run through some other unforgettable one-hit wonders from the 2010s:

6. Foster the People - "Pumped Up Kicks" (2010): An indie-pop track with a dark lyrical twist, this song was both catchy and thought-provoking.
7. LMFAO - "Party Rock Anthem" (2011): This electro-house banger was the soundtrack to countless parties and dance floors.
8. fun. ft. Janelle Monáe - "We Are Young" (2011): An anthemic pop song that captured the feeling of youthful optimism and rebellion.
9. Walk the Moon - "Shut Up and Dance" (2014): A high-energy dance-rock track that was impossible not to groove to.
10. OMI - "Cheerleader" (Felix Jaehn Remix) (2014): A tropical house remix that became a global summer anthem.
11. MAGIC! - "Rude" (2013): This reggae-pop tune was a lighthearted and catchy summer hit.
12. Hozier - "Take Me to Church" (2013): A soulful and powerful track that showcased Hozier's incredible vocals.
13. Tove Lo - "Habits (Stay High)" (2013): An electronic pop song with raw and honest lyrics about dealing with heartbreak.
14. Silentó - "Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)" (2015): A dance-craze song that inspired countless viral videos.
15. Desiigner - "Panda" (2015): A trap anthem with mumbled lyrics and a distinctive flow.
16. D.R.A.M. ft. Lil Yachty - "Broccoli" (2016): A quirky and upbeat hip-hop track with a memorable melody.
17. Lil Pump - "Gucci Gang" (2017): A mumble rap hit that was both controversial and undeniably catchy.
18. Cardi B ft. Bad Bunny & J Balvin - "I Like It" (2018): A Latin trap song that showcased Cardi B's versatility and charisma. (While Cardi B has had numerous hits, this particular track, with its specific blend of artists and Latin flair, stands out as a unique moment in her career.)
19. Lizzo - "Truth Hurts" (2017): A body-positive anthem that became a slow-burn hit, reaching its peak in 2019. (While Lizzo has become a major star, this song marked her breakthrough moment.)
20. Lewis Capaldi - "Someone You Loved" (2018): A heart wrenching ballad that showcased Capaldi's powerful vocals. (This song propelled Capaldi to fame, though he has had continued success, this song is still his most recognizable.)

The Legacy of 2010s One-Hit Wonders

So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour through 20 of the most memorable one-hit wonders from the 2010s. These songs, while fleeting in their mainstream dominance, left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the decade. They represent a diverse range of genres and styles, from pop and electronic to hip-hop and indie, reflecting the eclectic nature of the 2010s music scene. What makes these songs so special? Perhaps it's their catchiness, their relatability, or their ability to capture a specific moment in time. Whatever the reason, they continue to evoke feelings of nostalgia and remind us of the musical trends and cultural moments that defined the decade. The one-hit wonder phenomenon is a fascinating aspect of the music industry. It highlights the unpredictable nature of fame and the challenges of sustaining success in a rapidly changing environment. These artists may not have become household names, but their one shining moment in the spotlight has earned them a place in music history. They remind us that sometimes, all it takes is one perfect song to capture the world's attention. The 2010s were a unique period for music, with the rise of streaming services, social media, and the increasing globalization of music tastes. These factors all contributed to the rise and fall of these one-hit wonders. It's interesting to consider how the music industry has changed since then and what the future holds for artists seeking to break through in an increasingly crowded market. These songs also serve as a reminder of the power of music to connect us to specific memories and emotions. Hearing one of these tracks can instantly transport you back to a particular time and place, evoking feelings of nostalgia and reminding you of the experiences you had during that era. They are like time capsules, preserving the sounds and sentiments of a bygone era. As we move further away from the 2010s, these songs will likely continue to be rediscovered and enjoyed by new generations of music lovers. Their enduring appeal is a testament to their quality and the impact they had on popular culture. So, the next time you hear one of these tunes, take a moment to appreciate the unique magic of the one-hit wonder and the fleeting nature of fame.