In the music industry, some bands strike gold with just one hit song that changes their lives forever. These lucky artists created a single track that resonated so strongly with audiences that it generated enough money to set them up for life. Their stories prove that sometimes, all it takes is one perfect moment to create a lasting legacy in music.
Many of these bands continued making music after their big hit, but none of their other songs achieved the same success or financial reward. Still, that one magical track was enough to secure their place in music history and their financial future.
House of Pain – Jump Around
Released in 1992, this energetic hip-hop track became a permanent fixture at sporting events. The song’s infectious beat and chorus made it instantly recognizable worldwide. The group earned substantial royalties from record sales and licensing deals. It continues to generate income through sports venues and media use.
Norman Greenbaum – Spirit in the Sky
Greenbaum wrote this iconic rock song in just 15 minutes, inspired by watching country singers on TV. Since its release in 1969, the song has been licensed for over 100 movies, TV shows, and commercials. Spirit in the Sky has earned Greenbaum steady royalties for over 50 years. He openly admits he’s lived comfortably off this one song and never needed another hit.
Right Said Fred – I’m Too Sexy
The British band created this novelty hit in 1991, which topped the charts worldwide. The song has been sampled by major artists including Taylor Swift, generating significant royalties. I’m Too Sexy continues to earn money through TV shows, movies, and advertisements. The band members live comfortably off the royalties despite never achieving similar success with other songs.
Bobby McFerrin – Don’t Worry Be Happy
This a cappella song became an unexpected global hit in 1988, winning three Grammy Awards. McFerrin created the entire song using only his voice, making it unique. The song has been used in countless advertisements and movies, generating substantial licensing fees. While McFerrin continued his career in jazz and classical music, this song remains his most significant commercial success.
Chumbawamba – Tubthumping
Released in 1997, this anthemic track earned the band over $10 million in royalties. The infectious “I get knocked down” chorus became a global sports anthem and party favorite. The song’s popularity at sporting events generates consistent licensing fees. Despite the band’s punk roots, this mainstream hit provided financial security for all members.
Baha Men – Who Let the Dogs Out
Released in 2000, this song became a stadium anthem at sporting events worldwide. The band won a Grammy for Best Dance Recording and secured numerous licensing deals. The song continues to generate substantial income through sports events and commercial use. While the band released other music, none matched the financial success of their famous dog-themed hit.
Dexys Midnight Runners – Come On Eileen
This 1982 hit topped the charts in multiple countries and won Best British Single at the Brit Awards. The song has maintained popularity through decades of radio play and movie soundtracks. Come On Eileen generates significant royalties through streaming and licensing deals. The band disbanded and reformed several times but never matched this song’s success.
Modern English – I Melt With You
Released in 1982, this new wave classic gained popularity through MTV rotation. The song has been used in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, including a famous Burger King campaign. I Melt With You continues to generate substantial licensing fees and streaming revenue. The band admits this single song has provided most of their income over four decades.
Soft Cell – Tainted Love
This cover of a 1964 soul song became a global hit in 1981 and set a Guinness World Record. The song spent 43 weeks on the US Billboard Hot 100, the longest run then. Tainted Love has earned millions through consistent radio play and countless covers by other artists. The band never reached similar commercial success but continues to receive royalties from this track.
a-ha – Take On Me
The Norwegian band’s breakthrough hit topped charts worldwide and pioneered innovative video animation. The song has generated millions through streaming, radio play, and commercial licensing. Take On Me gained renewed popularity through TV shows, movies, and video games. While a-ha remained successful in Europe, this song provides their global income stream.
Ram Jam – Black Betty
This 1977 rock adaptation of an old work song became the band’s only major hit. The powerful guitar riffs and driving rhythm made it a lasting rock classic. The song has earned millions through licensing for movies, TV shows, and video games. Its continued use in media ensures steady royalty payments.
4 Non Blondes – What’s Up
Released in 1993, this song became an unexpected global hit and cultural phenomenon. Lead singer Linda Perry wrote the song in frustration during band practice. What’s Up has generated millions through radio play, streaming, and cover versions. The band broke up shortly after but continues to receive substantial royalties from their only hit.
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