3 One-Hit Wonders From the 70s That Are Still Relevant Today

Sometimes music goes the way of the Dodo. Sure, a song might rise up and tickle the fancy of an audience and stick around for a little while. But tracks—especially quirkier one-hit wonders—can often pop up and then fade away as culture changes. It’s just a fact of nature. Here today, and gone tomorrow. Some songs, though, have longer lives.

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Some tunes can have an impact for years, decades, or longer. We wanted to explore three examples of just that. This is a trio of one-hit wonders that not only made a big splash in the moment they were released but that also have subsisted over the generations since they hit the airwaves. Indeed, these are three one-hit wonders from the 70s that are still relevant today.

[RELATED: 3 One-Hit Wonders You Didn’t Know Were Merely One-Hit Wonders]

“Video Killed The Radio Star” by The Buggles from ‘The Age Of Plastic’ (1979)

In an age with rapidly moving technology, it’s good to take a step back and remember the past. There was a time when sheet music was all we had to share songs. Then it turned into radio, vinyl, cassette tapes, CDs, and now everything is streaming. If this song were written today, would it be about how streaming killed the MP3 star? Who is to say? Not only is this track from The Buggles fun and catchy, but it is also one that reminds us that history is important to hold onto.

“The Boys Are Back In Town” by Thin Lizzy from ‘Jailbreak’ (1976)

This is one of those songs that you can hear in your mind as soon as you say the title or start singing the chorus. It’s ubiquitous thanks to its catchy lyrics and its over-the-top delivery. Sometimes that’s what it takes for a tune to hold on and continue throughout culture. But Thin Lizzy nailed it. “The Boys Are Back In Town” is a song that continually shows up in movies and TV commercials due to its familiarity and charm. And we expect it will continue to do so throughout the ages.

“One Toke Over The Line” by Brewer And Shipley from ‘Tarkio’ (1971)

When it comes to stoner—er, cannabis—culture, some songs will always live on. There is a certain vibe that remains associated with those who enjoy a smoke during the day. And this acoustic-driven song is right at the top of the list. It just sounds like getting high (uh, we’re told…) and that’s why Brewer And Shipley‘s 1971 single has and will continue to remain in the cannabis zeitgeist for eternity. One listen and you’re smiling like someone with the munchies.

Photo by Fin Costello/Redferns