9 70s Rock Bands That Had One Massive Hit and Nothing Else
via Rob Parissi / YouTube
The 1970s produced numerous rock bands that achieved fleeting fame with a single hit. Despite their brief time in the spotlight, these songs have endured over the decades. Here are nine such bands and their standout tracks.
Ram Jam – “Black Betty”
Ram Jam, a New York-based rock band, is best known for their 1977 rendition of “Black Betty.” This high-energy track, rooted in a traditional African-American work song, showcased the band’s hard rock style. Despite its success, peaking at number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100, Ram Jam couldn’t replicate this achievement with subsequent releases.
The band released two albums, but none of their other songs gained significant attention. “Black Betty” remains their defining contribution to rock music, still receiving airplay and featuring in various media.
Wild Cherry – “Play That Funky Music”
In 1976, Wild Cherry, hailing from Ohio, released “Play That Funky Music,” a funk-rock anthem that topped the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s catchy groove and memorable lyrics captured the essence of the era’s dance scene. Despite this chart-topping success, Wild Cherry struggled to produce another hit of similar magnitude.
The band continued to perform and record, but none of their subsequent songs matched the popularity of “Play That Funky Music.” The track remains a staple of ’70s music compilations and continues to be celebrated for its infectious rhythm.
Nazareth – “Love Hurts”
Scottish rock band Nazareth gained international recognition with their 1975 ballad “Love Hurts.” Originally written by Boudleaux Bryant and previously recorded by several artists, Nazareth’s emotive rendition struck a chord with listeners, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Despite a prolific career and multiple album releases, Nazareth couldn’t achieve another major hit in the U.S. “Love Hurts” remains their most enduring song, often associated with heartache and romantic longing.
Starland Vocal Band – “Afternoon Delight”
Washington, D.C.-based Starland Vocal Band soared to fame in 1976 with “Afternoon Delight,” a soft rock tune that climbed to number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Known for its harmonious vocals and suggestive lyrics, the song became emblematic of the mid-’70s sound.
Despite winning several Grammy Awards, the band couldn’t replicate the success of “Afternoon Delight.” They disbanded in the early ’80s, leaving behind a legacy tied primarily to this one hit.
Ace – “How Long”
British band Ace found success in 1975 with “How Long,” a smooth rock track that reached number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Featuring Paul Carrack’s soulful vocals, the song was widely interpreted as a tale of romantic infidelity.
In reality, “How Long” addressed the band’s frustration over a member secretly playing for another group. Despite this hit, Ace couldn’t achieve further chart success and disbanded in 1977.
Stealers Wheel – “Stuck in the Middle with You”
Formed in Scotland, Stealers Wheel is best known for their 1973 hit “Stuck in the Middle with You.” The song, characterized by its catchy melody and satirical lyrics, reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its distinctive sound led many to mistake it for a Bob Dylan track.
Despite the success of “Stuck in the Middle with You,” Stealers Wheel struggled with internal conflicts and lineup changes, preventing them from capitalizing on their initial success. The band dissolved in 1975, leaving this track as their standout legacy.
Head East – “Never Been Any Reason”
American rock band Head East gained recognition with their 1975 song “Never Been Any Reason.” Known for its energetic instrumentation and distinctive synthesizer riffs, the track became a staple on rock radio stations. Despite its popularity, the song only reached number 68 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Head East continued to tour and release albums, but none of their subsequent songs achieved significant commercial success. “Never Been Any Reason” remains their most celebrated track, often featured in classic rock playlists.
Manfred Mann’s Earth Band – “Blinded by the Light”
British group Manfred Mann’s Earth Band achieved their biggest hit with “Blinded by the Light,” a Bruce Springsteen cover released in 1976. The song reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, notable for its catchy chorus and dynamic arrangement.
Despite a series of albums and singles, the band couldn’t replicate the success of “Blinded by the Light” in the U.S. However, they maintained a dedicated fan base in Europe and continued to produce music.
Rick Derringer – “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo”
Guitarist and singer Rick Derringer made a mark with his 1973 hit “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.” The song showcased his prowess on the guitar and became a rock anthem, reaching number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Although Derringer had a prolific career collaborating with other artists and producing music, he didn’t achieve another solo hit of similar magnitude. “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo” remains his signature song, celebrated for its driving rhythm and catchy riffs.
