4 one-hit wonders from 1990s that deserved so much less

Speaking of decades, let me share my thoughts on the ’90s. It was a time that introduced us to genres like grunge and Britpop, but also produced a fair share of less popular pop music. Compared to the musical revolution that was the ’70s, it may not have been as impressive in terms of overall impact.

However, similar to each passing decade, the 1990s introduced numerous short-lived sensations, often referred to as one-hit wonders. Some of these tunes sparked anticipation for further musical output from the artists. Unfortunately, in certain instances, they delivered more music, but it fell flat.

To put it straight, it’s fair to say that in each scenario, the musical artists, who seem destined for stardom in our minds, arguably shouldn’t have produced their one-hit wonders. If they had not, we might all be in a musically richer state today.

These 1990s one-hit wonders did not deserve their one popular song

Vanilla Ice – “Ice Ice Baby” (1990)

Reach number 1 on US Billboard 100

The main melody in the song is borrowed from “Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie, but Vanilla Ice unsuccessfully claimed that it was slightly different. Unfortunately, the tune’s shallowness appears even more evident when proper credit for the catchy hook wasn’t acknowledged at first. Vanilla Ice aspired to be a big name in music, yet he denied his inspiration.

Interestingly, Vanilla Ice continues to stay relevant in the public sphere, seemingly unphased by trading his creative spirit for a bit of income. It’s regrettable that our initial support, through purchasing his work, contributed to his wealth accumulation.

House of Pain – “Jump Around” (1992)

Reached number 3 on US Billboard 100

This article isn’t solely focused on famous rappers from the 1990s, but we can’t ignore some of the one-hit wonders who arguably didn’t deserve their success, especially those pretending to represent hip-hop authentically. It’s worth noting that Vanilla Ice’s song was the first hip-hop track to reach number one on the charts, but there were many superior tracks that achieved this milestone before him.

The House of Pain was a deception all along. When inquired about their origins, one might have assumed they hailed from Boston. However, the video for the song attempted to appeal to the Irish community in Boston. Contrary to this portrayal, Everlast originated from Los Angeles and his real surname, Schrody, is of German descent.

Anything to make a buck, it seems. Plus, the song is fluffy silly.

Seven Mary Three – “Cumbersome” (1996)

Reached number 39 on US Billboard 100

This song isn’t terrible, but its structure appears simple enough to be replicated often. What’s surprising is that Seven Mary Three, a band known for this, rarely managed to do so. This suggests that their one-time hit might have been a fluke, which casts doubt on its artistic merit.

This song continues, alright, and it doesn’t have a grand, catchy chorus, but it’s worth tuning in on the radio. However, I wouldn’t suggest investing in one of their albums or going to see them live, as the overall quality seems somewhat shallow.

Marcy Playground – “Sex and Candy” (1998)

Reached number 8 on US Billboard 100

As I hum along to the repetitive drone of this melody, it’s undeniably catchy and enjoyable – even if it borders on the eerie. While some of their other tunes could easily be mistaken for soothing nursery rhymes, there’s definitely a chilling twist to them that adds an unexpected edge.

Actually, there’s something eerie about this tune. Could be the reason we find it so captivating, even if it does make us a bit uneasy as well.

Shawn Mullins – “Lullaby”

Reached number 7 on US Billboard 100

Mullins managed to chart well in the adult contemporary scene, yet his old songs are largely forgotten. The one that sticks in our minds, though, is the overly-sweet and excessively played tune. It’s plausible that Mullins is a good person, but he might share some similarities with the character Tom from the Bridget Jones series.

As a gamer, I’ve got that one iconic track under my belt, and it’s been riding the wave of success ever since. But let me tell you, I’m not planning to create another one. You see, Mullins might be in a similar boat. We all appreciate that unforgettable tune he made, but if only he hadn’t ventured into other compositions with that earworm quality – it just doesn’t seem worth it to us now.

2025-05-01 13:00