3 One-Hit Wonders From 1970 We’re Sure You’ve Never Heard Of

Generally speaking, when it comes to one-hit wonders, the songs and the artists who made them are well known. Or at least known. That’s kind of the thing about the designation. A one-hit wonder is a track that rocketed up the charts because it was popular, well-received, and perhaps even beloved.

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But sometimes a one-hit wonder can come and go so quickly that their entire being seems to vanish from the cultural zeitgeist. Below, we wanted to explore three such examples. Indeed, these are three one-hit wonders from 1970 that we’re sure you’ve never heard of.

“Jennifer Tomkins” by Street People (Single, 1970)

This song, which hit no. 36 on the Billboard Hot 100, was released in 1970 under the moniker Street People by songwriter Rupert Holmes. The song was originally recorded, though, in 1969 by Holmes and Ron Dante and was set for release for their group, The Cuff Links. But due to some internal difficulties, Dante dropped out, and Holmes had to change up the plan and the band name for the “Jennifer Tomkins” hit. Either way, he got his success as the soulful tune stayed on the charts for nearly four months. Yet, it remains forgotten now.

“Go Back” by Crabby Appleton from ‘Crabby Appleton’ (1970)

The debut single from Crabby Appleton’s self-titled 1970 LP, this energetic, rhythmic tune hit no. 36 on the Billboard Hot 100. The success helped the group hit the road and open for big-name bands like The Doors, Sly And The Family Stone, Three Dog Night, and ABBA. Crabby Appleton never found the same type of chart success again, though. Perhaps their name had something to do with it? Either way, this song was fun and inspiring, even if it is forgotten today.

“Games” by Redeye from ‘Redeye’ (1970)

This Los Angeles-born rock band released their self-titled LP in 1970. And with it came their best charting single, “Games”, which hit no. 27 on the Billboard Hot 100. The harmony-driven, propellant offering is the kind of song that would make for a good montage soundtrack in a movie or a good tune for a road trip. And while it’s a fun tune to revisit today, few if any music fans remember that it even exists today. Such is the capricious nature of pop culture!

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