Yesterday, I was discussing Two Hit Wonders – the artists who have two big hits then fade away. Here are a few more that just didn’t have the staying power:
Paula Cole – “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone” and “I Don’t Wanna Wait”
Female singers had an incredible run in the late 90s and Paula Cole was no exception. “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone” went to #8 and “I Don’t Wanna Wait” (you may remember it as the “Dawson’s Creek” theme song) went to #11. But 1997 was the last time Paula would be on the charts – at least so far. Paula seems to have fallen victim to the “Best New Artist” Grammy curse.
Paula Cole Update: There is anticipation that Paula’s fourth studio album is in the works and she performed “God Bless America” at the 2007 MLB All-Star Game. She has also toured with Mandy Moore.
Golden Earring – “Radar Love” and “Twilight Zone”
It hurts me to write that Golden Earring is a two hit wonder and I love their music. But, it is true – “Radar Love” hit the airwaves in 1974, peaking at #13 and almost ten years later, their second hit, “Twilight Zone,” peaked at #10 in 1983. Their song “When the Lady Smiles” did hit the U.S. charts…at #76. Regardless of being a two hit wonder, Golden Earring has been the most successful Dutch band on the international charts.
Golden Earring Update: Golden Earring formed in 1961 and this year is celebrating their 47th anniversary. The lineup has remained the same since 1970 and they have concerts planned in the UK for March 2009.
Young MC – “Bust a Move” and “Principal’s Office”
The hip-hop and rap world was still intertwined in the late 80s. Even Will Smith was referred to as a rapper back then, which is a far cry from what we consider rappers to be today. Young MC hit the charts hard in 1989 with his song “Bust a Move.” He also hit again in 1990 when “Principal’s Office” hit #33. But before he faded away, Young MC became something of a two hit wonder squared – he co-wrote two hits for another rapper, Tone Loc.
Young MC Update: Young MC returned to the limelight in 2006 on Celebrity Fit Club 3.
More about Tone Loc’s stint as a two hit wonder tomorrow!