3 One-Hit Wonders From the 1980s That Just Make You Feel Good

The 1980s were filled with artists who were doing their best to break the monotony of a world focused on business and power. Everywhere you looked, people were running to the stock market for jobs, trying to become bosses, buying expensive cars, and making a life in the suburbs. But there were quirky, candy-coated musicians trying to bring life to this dynamic of drudgery.

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We wanted to explore three examples of that. More specifically, we wanted to explore three one-hit wonders from the 1980s that just knew how to put a smile on your face. Indeed, these are three one-hit wonders from the 1980s that just know how to make you feel good.

“Genius Of Love” by Tom Tom Club from ‘Tom Tom Club’ (1981)

The one-hit wonder band that was born from The Talking Heads, Tom Tom Club, was comprised of husband and wife duo Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth. And on their 1981 song “Genius Of Love”, the artists dabble in the world of disco. They sing about love while also paying tribute to a number of great artists who came before them. Those include James Brown, George Clinton, and Bootsy Collins. It’s a song that hit No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100, with a beat that makes you feel like you’re 50 pounds lighter. And it’s got a vibe that makes you feel a million dollars richer.

“Funkytown” by Lipps Inc. from ‘Mouth To Mouth’ (1980)

Speaking of songs that treaded in the disco pool, “Funkytown” by Lipps Inc. is a Billboard Hot 100 chart-topping track that will get you on your feet and dancing while you install a disco ball on your living room ceiling. Listening to the track, who doesn’t want to pull out their map and find the quickest way to this magical place called Funkytown? Where is it? Who lives there? What do they do for fun there besides wear leotards and roller skate? Maybe if you listen just one more time, you’ll find the way there…

“Whip It” by Devo from ‘Freedom Of Choice’ (1980)

This song, which hit No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100, comes from the band Devo. The whole thing is supposed to be disorienting in the best of ways. Like an amusement park ride, the song sends you topsy-turvy around your consciousness and shoots you out the other side. Suddenly, you’re changed. You’re happier, you’re sillier, you’re ready for more Devo! Maybe that’s what it means to whip it. The band wants you to overcome your past inclinations and get started on your new, fun life!

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