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For many aspiring singers and bands, the one-off hit can be a
bitter-sweet affair. A really big hit can transform lives in
uplifting, positive (and financially rewarding) ways. New careers,
exciting opportunities and a Rock & Roll pension can follow.
And if the hope of finding a successful follow-up becomes an
elusive phantom, there is always solace in the sense of achievement.
Many one hit wonders will answer their critics defiantly; "Well
at least I had one more hit than you!".
Many argue that pop/rock music is more about merit than market
forces. But the big question is; "Do people find themselves
whistling the song?". If the answer is yes then you can bet
staff will be working overtime at record companies all over the
world while the artist eagerly prays their song will be Number One.
But what strange alchemy transmutes one record into pure gold
while so many others flop? Strangely, artists always seem to know
when they have recorded such a gem. They emerge from the studio with
an unnerving confidence. They know the record is special . . .
Many former chart toppers have continued with a musical career
with varying degrees of success. And even if record companies have
dropped them, many carry on via the cabaret circuit or turn to the
internet and market themselves online.
Some turn to other areas of the music business and many former
teenage tunesmiths are now engaged in other grown-up business,
working as financial advisers, pilots, commercial artists, teachers
of actors. Some work in a bar or sell burgers from a van . . .
Only a small minority seem damaged by the experience and
certainly none seem to regret that opportunity knocked (albeit just
the once).
The majority of One Hit Wonders feel only pleasure at the memory
of those extraordinary days when the charts ruled their lives, fans
cheered and studio lights glared.
Here then is a selection of memorable One Hit Wonders from the
50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s;
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