4 One-Hit Wonders From the ’70s That Shocked Everyone by Hitting No. 1

The mid-to-late 1970s weren’t all that great. Life was hard, the economy was weak, and pop culture often reflected a society that seemed to be breaking apart. Just look at the movies from that time—they were gritty city dramas with tough characters and plots full of strife.

This mood extended to music as well. Yet, oddly enough, even during these difficult times, certain songs emerged out of nowhere, topped the charts, and made a name for themselves—even if their singers didn’t stick around for long. These one-hit wonders soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 but quickly faded back into obscurity.

“The Hustle” by Van McCoy (1975): The Dance Floor Anthem
The disco craze was in full swing in 1975. People were donning platform shoes, hitting nightclubs, and dancing to flashy, upbeat songs. Van McCoy was at the forefront.

McCoy didn’t just ride the wave with “The Hustle”; he helped create it. The song quickly became a disco hit thanks to its catchy strings, groovy beat, and iconic flute riff. It was almost impossible not to get up and dance—even if you didn’t know the moves yet. The track felt lighthearted, yet its simplicity also carried a hypnotic quality.

“The Hustle” went straight to number one and became Van McCoy’s lone major success. Although his time at the top was brief, his contribution to the disco revolution is still remembered today on dance floors, retro playlists, and every wedding DJ’s best song selections.

“Convoy” by C.W. McCall (1975): A Trucker Song with a Twist
While disco ruled the charts, trucker country music was also gaining popularity in the U.S.

C.W. McCall’s “Convoy” told the story of a group of truck drivers banding together on the open road. Packed with CB radio jargon and a steady rolling rhythm, the song tapped into the mystery and freedom of life behind the wheel. It was quirky and cool, arriving just as truckers were becoming pop culture icons.

Strangely, “Convoy” wasn’t just a hit; it was a massive hit. It topped both the country and pop charts, marking McCall’s big break. What happened next? He went back to being a regional ad manager. But for a while, he was the voice of every big rig speeding down the highway.

“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor (1978): The Ultimate Survival Anthem
Some songs strike a chord that never fades. “I Will Survive” is one of those.

Gloria Gaynor’s powerful anthem, released in 1978, became more than just a disco track—it became a declaration of strength. The lyrics tell the story of overcoming heartbreak and reclaiming personal power. The song quickly became a favorite among anyone going through tough times.

Its blend of pain and empowerment, paired with an irresistible beat, gave the song lasting impact long after its release. It reached number one, won a Grammy, and became an enduring symbol of resilience. While Gaynor had other songs, none matched the fame of this one.

People of all ages still belt out “I Will Survive” at karaoke nights, dance parties, and anywhere they need a reminder that they can overcome.

Nick Gilder’s “Hot Child in the City” (1978): A Dark Tale in Disguise
Nick Gilder’s “Hot Child in the City” might sound like a bright pop ode to nightlife, but beneath its shiny surface lies a much darker story.

Gilder, a British-Canadian musician living in Los Angeles, witnessed the darker side of the city’s nightlife, especially how young people were exploited on the streets. Instead of ignoring it, he wrote about it. The song was catchy and radio-friendly but carried a serious message about the harsh realities outside the club doors.

The public embraced it, sending the song to number one and marking Gilder’s only major hit. What made it stand out was how smooth it sounded despite its solemn theme. Although Gilder didn’t stay on the charts long, he managed to turn a troubling issue into a song people couldn’t stop playing.

Hits That Last

None of these artists ever scored another chart-topping hit, but their brief reign at number one remains unforgettable. Each song captured a unique facet of the 1970s—from disco dreams to gritty realities. These one-hit wonders may have topped the charts only once, but decades later, they’re still heard on the radio, proving that a single great song can make music history.