The 5 Most Forgettable ’80s One-Hit Wonders

The music of the 1980s was characterized by an odd combination of megastars and artists that rose to fame and then vanished. Among them, a few one-hit wonders failed to make the chart jumps they may have merited, leaving behind songs that, despite their influence, have faded from public consciousness.

“Everybody’s Got to Learn Sometime” by The Korgis (1980)

Reaching the U.S. Top 20 and faring even better in the United Kingdom, this track by the Great Britain-based Korgis showcases James Warren’s contemplation on the transformative power of the mind. With its dreamy synthesizer backdrop, the song’s minimalistic lyrics and somewhat downcast choruses create a bittersweet vibe, hinting at future musical genres.

“A Fine, Fine Day” by Tony Carey (1984)

Tony Carey, after his tenure with Rainbow and the Planet P Project, struck a chord with this slice-of-life narrative. “A Fine, Fine Day,” is a story about Uncle Sonny’s mysterious return, reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen’s tales from “Nebraska” but set to the era’s synth-rock sound. Carey masterfully unfolds a story filled with innocence and underlying shades of ambiguity—it’s a journey through the eyes of a youth, hinting at something more adult and somber lurking beneath.

“Cry” by Godley & Creme (1985)

Previously part of 10cc, Kevin Godley and Lol Creme turned their talents to directing in the MTV era, creating an innovative video for “Cry” that featured face-morphing effects. The song itself is a compelling mixture of raw guitar and evolving vocals that capture the complexity of emotional betrayal. Beyond its groundbreaking video, “Cry” stands as a powerful exploration of frustration and hurt.

“Welcome to the Boomtown” by David & David (1986)

Collaborators David Baerwald and David Ricketts offered the world just one album together, which included “Welcome to the Boomtown.” The song provides a gritty, ironic take on urban life, diverging from the mainstream pop of its time. With its driving guitar and haunting chorus, it represents a missed opportunity for a duo that had much to offer.

“I Don’t Mind at All” by Bourgeois Tagg (1987)

Behind the seemingly political name were musicians Brent Bourgeois and Larry Tagg. “I Don’t Mind at All” stands out from much of the ’80s music with its Beatlesque quality, demonstrating that melody and clever lyrics have enduring appeal. The song addresses the end of a relationship with a claim of indifference, yet the music’s melancholy suggests a deeper struggle.