One-Hit Wonder Rock Songs of the ’70s
In honor of great one-hit wonder rock songs of the ’70s, Audio Ink Radio presents its tally of the best one-hit wonders from the era. – Author: Cat Badra, Iggy Pop photo via Harmony Korine
While the 1970s happened a long time ago, many of the groundbreaking songs released during that decade are still enjoyed today. Of course, classic rock radio keeps the sounds of the ’70s and other decades alive, but even outside of classic rock playlists, some of the most popular songs from the 1970s are played everywhere, from stores to social media to summer barbecue parties. They say that at some point, anything old becomes new again, and that’s certainly the case with some of these classics. In honor, Audio Ink Radio presents its tally of rock one-hit wonders from the 1970s that are still alive today.
One-Hit Wonders of the 1970s in Rock
Bay City Rollers, “Saturday Night”
Those looking for a Saturday evening jam will find it in Bay City Rollers’ “Saturday Night.” This band was famous in the U.K., and they hit it big in the U.S. in 1974 with this anthemic, chanting jam. It’s perfect for any party playlist.
Iggy Pop, “The Passenger”
Before you get all feisty, note that Iggy Pop is a legend with plenty of influential “hits” to his name. Without Pop, it’s possible there would have never been punk rock. Plus, his only technical “hit” in the U.S. came with “Candy” in 1990. But, going back to Iggy’s career in the 1970s, if we had to pick one song that really stood out and got Iggy noticed around the globe, it’s “The Passenger.” The track, off Pop’s 1977 “Lust for Life” album, was written by Iggy Pop and Ricky Gardiner. It’s such a classic that when Pop released it as a single in 1998, it hit No. 22 on the U.K. charts. Pop is still making music today, and he’s a punk blessing to the music world.
Ram Jam, “Black Betty”
“Black Betty” has become such a staple in the world of rock that it’s easy to forget that Ram Jam doesn’t really have another hit that charted as well. It’s all good, though, because “Black Better” totally rocks and has helped Ram Jam pave out an entire career. They have plenty of other solid songs, but “Black Betty” reigns supreme.
Mungo Jerry, “In the Summertime”
British rockers Mungo Jerry arrived on the scene in 1970 with their debut single, “In the Summertime.” The track is famous for being one of the first recorded songs to utilize the “beatboxing” style, and it’s oh-so catchy. This track was a hit overnight, and people couldn’t get enough of its catchy nature. It’s Mungo Jerry’s biggest hit, by a good amount.
T Rex, “Get It On”
T Rex is more than a song, but the English glam rock band scored big with their single “Get It On” off 1971’s “Electric Warrior.” The song, penned by vocalist Marc Bolan, was the band’s only chart-topper in the U.S. It’s absolutely worth noting, however, that T Rex scored numerous hits in the U.K., just not in the States.
So, there are a handful of great rock one-hit wonders from yesteryear. Find more one-offs from the ’70s in this Audio Ink Radio feature, too.
- One-Hit Wonder Rock Songs of the ’70s - June 11, 2025
- Timeless Guilty Pleasure Songs of the ’90s - June 5, 2025
- Original Members of Beloved ’70s Band Back Together - June 4, 2025
