The Chronic Curmudgeon: The 59 Best One Hit Wonders Ever: #17-#15

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February 20, 2007

The 59 Best One Hit Wonders Ever: #17-#15

17. Harvey Danger - "Flagpole Sitta" (1998) I know they're still around, but to date they've only had one song break the US charts -- 1998's exercise in brilliantly witty social observation and self-deprecation, "Flagpole Sitta." The song contains perhaps my favorite lyric ever -- and I do mean ever:

Been around the world and found that only stupid people are breeding; The cretins cloning and feeding -- and I don't even own a TV!

If there's ever been a song lyric I agree or relate with more, I haven't heard it yet. Of course I do now own a TV, but other than that... perfect line. Perfect.

(video removed because it was freaking annoying me coming on all the damn time)

16. Gary Numan - "Cars" (1980) Is there a more quintessential new wave video? This song was one of the first big new wave chart hits, reaching all the way into the top ten in 1980 and playing a significant part in the early rotation of MTV. The distinctive synth & bass line, along with the polymoog melody, are one of the most instantly recognizable riffs in pop music history. How many of you heard this while you were at the roller rink, by the way? (On an unrelated note, anyone else think the odds are very good that the drummer's name is Carmine or Vinnie?)

15. Ace Frehley - "New York Groove" (1979) How dare I list Ace Frehley of KISS as a one hit wonder? Because he only released one single as a solo artist, that's why. Since these are some of my favorite songs ever, being on the list is not an insult. And this is one of my favorite songs... Ace went for pure power pop here and nailed it well. This song is one of the ones you need to have playing when driving into Manhattan on the West Side Highway or the FDR, when the lights of the city are spread out in front of you and you're getting ready for a big night out. Great city song, great rock song, and well deserving of a spot in the top 15.