The Top 10 One-Hit Wonders of 1995: Songs That Defined an Era
The mid-’90s were packed with unforgettable songs, but not all artists managed to replicate their success. These one-hit wonders left a lasting mark through massive chart success, pop culture ubiquity, or sheer nostalgia. While some of these artists had other minor hits, these songs are what they’re remembered for.
Ranking Criteria
- Cultural Impact – How much did the song influence pop culture and remain relevant over time?
- Chart Performance – Peak position and longevity on major charts like the Billboard Hot 100.
- Longevity – Does the song still resonate today, appearing in media, playlists, or nostalgia-driven discussions?
Now, let’s count down the biggest one-hit wonders of 1995!
10. Blessid Union of Souls – “I Believe”
Album: Home
Release Date: March 21, 1995
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #8
This emotional ballad blended pop and R&B with a heartfelt message about love, racial unity, and faith. Inspired by frontman Eliot Sloan’s real-life interracial relationship, the lyrics struck a chord with many listeners. Though Blessid Union of Souls had other minor hits, none matched “I Believe.”
9. Nicki French – “Total Eclipse of the Heart”
Album: Secrets
Release Date: November 21, 1994 (U.S. impact in 1995)
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #2
A high-energy Eurodance remake of Bonnie Tyler’s 1983 power ballad, this version turned a dramatic rock hit into a club anthem. French’s take became a global hit, riding the ‘90s dance music wave. Despite her strong start, she never found similar mainstream success again.
8. The Rembrandts – “I’ll Be There for You”
Album: L.P.
Release Date: May 23, 1995
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #17 (Airplay Chart #1 for 8 weeks)
Best known as the Friends theme song, this track became one of the most recognizable TV theme songs ever. While The Rembrandts had minor success before and after, they couldn’t escape the shadow of their association with the sitcom. The song remains a staple of ‘90s nostalgia and TV history.
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7. Rednex – “Cotton Eye Joe”
Album: Sex & Violins
Release Date: August 12, 1994 (U.S. impact in 1995)
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #25
A bizarre fusion of techno and country, this Swedish group’s reworking of the folk song “Cotton-Eyed Joe” was both absurd and addictive. Love it or hate it, the song became a worldwide novelty hit and is still a go-to at sports events and parties. However, Rednex faded into obscurity outside of Europe.
6. Luniz – “I Got 5 on It”
Album: Operation Stackola
Release Date: May 23, 1995
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #8
A West Coast hip-hop classic, this song was an anthem for smokers and partygoers alike. Built around a haunting sample of Club Nouveau’s “Why You Treat Me So Bad,” the track’s eerie instrumental later gained renewed attention when Jordan Peele used it in the Us movie trailer (2019). Despite its success, Luniz never reached the same heights again. Listen to “I Got 5 On It.”
5. Everything but the Girl – “Missing” (Todd Terry Remix)
Album: Amplified Heart
Release Date: August 8, 1994 (Remix gained popularity in 1995)
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #2
Originally a melancholic folk-pop song, DJ Todd Terry’s deep house remix turned “Missing” into an international club hit. Tracey Thorn’s longing vocals over the hypnotic beat struck a deep emotional chord with listeners. Everything but the Girl had a respected career before and after, but this was their only major crossover pop success.
4. Montell Jordan – “This Is How We Do It”
Album: This Is How We Do It
Release Date: February 6, 1995
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #1 (7 weeks)
A quintessential ‘90s party anthem, Montell Jordan’s debut single topped the charts and became synonymous with weekend celebrations. Blending smooth R&B with hip-hop beats, it was a defining track of the era. Though Jordan had some follow-ups, none matched this song’s legendary status.
3. Deep Blue Something – “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”
Album: Home
Release Date: July 4, 1995
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #5
A catchy alt-rock hit, this song is often remembered for its infectious chorus and its reference to the classic Audrey Hepburn film. The track’s storytelling approach made it stand out, and while the band had other minor songs, they never replicated its success. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” remains a nostalgic favorite from the ‘90s.
2. Joan Osborne – “One of Us”
Album: Relish
Release Date: February 21, 1995
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #4
This thought-provoking rock ballad, penned by Eric Bazilian of The Hooters, asked, “What if God was one of us?” The song’s deep existential themes and Joan Osborne’s soulful delivery made it one of the most talked-about tracks of the year. Though she had a successful career in blues and folk music, this was her only major pop hit.
Feel old yet? Don’t worry—our BOB FM plays these bangers like it’s still 1995!
1. Coolio – “Gangsta’s Paradise”
Album: Gangsta’s Paradise
Release Date: August 1, 1995
Billboard Hot 100 Peak: #1 (3 weeks)
Arguably the biggest one-hit wonder of the year, “Gangsta’s Paradise” was a cultural phenomenon. With its haunting Stevie Wonder-sampled melody and introspective lyrics about street life, it became the defining song of Dangerous Minds (1995). While Coolio had other hits like “Fantastic Voyage,” none reached this level of impact. Even today, the song is regarded as one of the greatest rap tracks ever.
These Songs Defined 1995—And Our Nostalgia
The music of 1995 gave us some truly unforgettable one-hit wonders. While these artists may not have dominated the charts for long, their songs continue to live on—at parties, in films, and in nostalgic ‘90s playlists. Whether it’s a dance hit, a hip-hop anthem, or an emotional ballad, these tracks helped define a generation.
Which of these one-hit wonders is your favorite? Let us know!
