I'd bet that you know many of these songs, but do you know the artists? And do you know any of their other work?
The 1970s were a definite decade for music, but like in any era, many of its biggest hits were made by artists and groups that never had another.
Here are the biggest one-hit wonders from the 1970s.
1
My Sharona - 1979
"My Sharona" was The Knack’s first single, and made it to number one.
2
Dancing in the Moonlight - 1970-1972
Written by Sherman Kelly, originally recorded in 1970 by Kelly's band Boffalongo. It became a hit single when recorded by King Harvest in 1972.
3
Ring My Bell - 1979
"Ring My Bell" is a 1979 disco song written by Frederick Knight. The song was originally written for eleven-year-old Stacy Lattisaw, but was sung by Anita Ward.
4
In the Summertime - 1970
Mungo Jerry are a British rock band formed by Ray Dorset.
5
Spirit in the Sky - 1970
By Norman Joel Greenbaum.
6
I Love the Nightlife - 1978
“I Love the Nightlife” was released as the first single from Alicia Bridges’ debut album.
7
Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) - 1970
This was the debut single by Edison Lighthouse.
8
Mississippi Queen - 1970
By Mountain, headed by Leslie West.
9
The Hustle - 1975
By Van McCoy and the Soul City Symphony.
10
Kung Fu Fighting - 1974
By Jamaican vocalist Carl Douglas, written by Douglas and produced by British-Indian musician Biddu.
11
Afternoon Delight - 1976
The Starland Vocal Band had three other singles chart after “Afternoon Delight,” but less after that.
12
Black Betty - 1977
Performed by Ram Jam, Huddie "Lead Belly" Ledbetter is credited as the author. Some believe the song was adapted from even earlier folk material.
13
"Brother Louie" - 1973
The Stories topped the charts when they covered “Brother Louie.”
14
Don't Give Up On Us - 1977
Written by Tony Macaulay, and recorded by David Soul.
15
“Seasons in the Sun” - 1974
16
Play That Funky Music - 1976
By Rob Parissi and recorded by the band Wild Cherry.
17
"Lovin' You" - 1975
This song with a unique sound was the biggest hit Maya Rudolph’s mother would ever have.
18
"Brandy (You're a Fine Girl)" - 1972
This single from Looking Glass’s debut album reached number one.
19
"The Rapper" - 1970
The Jaggerz reached number one with their only major hit.
