Top 10 '90s One-Hit-Wonders That Still Bang
#10: “I’m Too Sexy” (1991)
Right Said Fred
This song really is the definition of a one-hit wonder. Outside of their native U.K., this Right Said Fred song feels like an anonymous track. “I’m Too Sexy” is still the ultimate dance track about narcissism. Famously, the song just lists the things its narrator is way too sexy for. Making fun of the superficiality of gym culture and the narcissism of other men was a pretty novel idea, especially for a hit song. It’s still cultural shorthand for a specific type of man who’s in love with himself. Looking around at the social media landscape now, it still kind of hits.
#9 “Mambo No. 5” (1999)
Lou Bega
Sampling a mambo track from the mid-century, this song hit number one across the world. Lou Bega’s high energy mambo-pop fusion track had the whole world dancing. In the grand tradition of songs that just list people’s names, it’s definitely one of the greats. And while it may have been one of those songs that got old really fast, there’s no denying that when it comes on now, it instantly transports us back to 1999. We’re still waiting for “Mambo No. 6,” Lou. Actually, we still feel cheated that we didn’t get “Mambos” number 1 through 4.
#8: “Return of the Mack” (1994)
Mark Morrison
The title song from this British artist’s most popular album saw crossover success in the U.S. “Return of the Mack” is a soul-inspired new jack swing track told from the point of view of a vengeful ex. Catchy and buoyant, with soul and dance-pop influence, the song still hits. The timeless themes of feeling wronged by an ex paired with an infectious 90s R&B sound is still a winning combo today. Although Morrison had some minor success in his home country, he failed to chart in the U.S. after “Return of the Mack.”
#7: “What Is Love” (1993)
Haddaway
It’s a dance hit from 1993 that asks an age-old question. What is love? Trinidadian-German singer Haddaway dropped this absolute bop and it immediately became a hit all around the world. Though the song doesn’t bring us any closer to an answer, that iconic refrain is still stuck in our heads over 30 years later. Its usage in “SNL”’s Roxbury Guys sketches cemented it forever as a surefire nostalgia bomb. Since then, “What Is Love” has become a meme and was even featured in 2018’s “Black Panther.” But it wouldn’t be half as popular if it weren’t so easy to dance to.
#6: “Macarena (Bayside Boys Remix)” (1995)
Los del Río
Since its first recording in 1993, this song has been remixed across the world. The most famous version, at least in America, was remixed by the Bayside Boys in 1995. They added English verses instead of the original Spanish, and suddenly, an early viral sensation was born. Although the lyrics are pretty cheeky, that’s not what we come back for. It’s all in the dance. If you were there at its height, every hip swing and pose is probably burned in your memory. As soon as you hear those first few electronic notes, it’s hard not to start moving.
#5: “Groove Is in the Heart” (1990)
Deee-Lite
Mixing a bunch of different genres and samples from other songs, this lovable dance track is funky and fresh with a twist of goofiness. Although it sounds distinctly early ‘90s, “Groove Is in the Heart” is kind of timeless. It doesn’t take itself seriously at all. Released in 1990, the song is just an irreverent, referential, and dance-worthy party track. New York-based music group Deee-Lite never had a hit as big as this one. Since then, though, the song has been frequently listed among the best in the dance genre.
#4: “Baby Got Back” (1992)
Sir Mix-a-Lot
Despite a 1992 release, Sir Mix-a-Lot’s anthem to his love of large posterior ends still has a profound effect on the culture. Even if you don’t know the song, you’ve at least heard references to its hilarious chorus and its opening narration. Talk about a cultural footprint. The song and accompanying music video were highly controversial, which just makes it more irresistible. And we’re not the only ones still listening. Nicki Minaj’s “Anaconda” is one of the most famous examples. In fact, Minaj’s now classic track heavily samples sections of the song and even takes its title from a line in “Baby Got Back.”
#3: “Fade into You” (1993)
Mazzy Star
Back in 2013, Vulture made the bold claim that this 1993 indie hit was the most overused needle drop in movies and television. Still, can you blame them? “Fade into You” by alternative pop group Mazzy Star is a dreamy, lovelorn ballad. It’s an incredibly simple song. It maintains the same energy throughout and has a simple chord progression, but it’s one of the most haunting songs ever. Lead vocalist Hope Sandoval’s breathy voice and gentle approach makes it sound like a magic spell. The simplicity and the ethereal sound are what makes “Fade into You” an unforgettable classic.
#2: “Barbie Girl” (1997
Aqua
Deeply ironic and dripping with subtext, this bubblegum pink pop hit is an earworm to end them all. Despite being a satire of the brand, it’s since gone on to become synonymous with the eponymous doll. The Scandinavian dance-pop novelty hit was actually a thorn in Mattel’s side for years. The toymaker unsuccessfully sued MCA Records. Their lawsuit accused the company and the band of damaging their brand. Times have changed though. “Barbie Girl” has stayed with us since its release in 1997. Even Mattel had to get on board. The song reappeared on the official “Barbie” movie soundtrack in 2023, sampled in Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice’s “Barbie World.”
#1: “Bitter Sweet Symphony” (1997)
The Verve
No other song captures that particular brand of 90s malaise like this Britpop sensation. With its haunting violin hook and tranquil vocal track, this is a song that is peak 90s in every way. Frontman and songwriter Richard Ashcroft actually took inspiration from 60s rock music. However, the band updates the sound for a modern audience, mixing a strong beat, a melancholy mood, and a soulful vocal. All these years later, it still goes as hard as it ever did. “Bitter Sweet Symphony” is a perfect hit of nostalgia and genuine musicianship, and it’s still listed among the best songs ever released.
Which of these tracks gave you major nostalgia? Tell us in the comments.