Top 10 2000s One Hit Wonders You Forgot Were Awesome
#9: “Move Ya Body” (2004)
move by u SwimDown
Nina Sky feat. Jabba Created by the pop sister duo Nina Sky, "Move Your Body" has all of the trademark elements that make for an exciting dance hit. It reached 4 on the Hot 100 as well as achieving gold certification by taking the best elements from multiple music genres. Despite its somewhat dated production, there's still something to love about this track's inviting and bouncy rhythms. Nina Sky went on to other releases and remixes as featured artists. And yet, this remains their biggest single as a headline act. Even though it fits well in the early aughts, it still deserves another chance at your next party.
#8: “Boston” (2006)
Augustana Augustana brought another meaningful ballad to the mid-2000s with their tune “Boston.” Although it might not be immediately recognizable, the singer’s trademark falsetto in the chorus will likely send people back in time. The emotional song found its way into various media from television shows to movies during the decade, including a memorable appearance on “One Tree Hill.” On the charts, the single fared better on the Adult Top 40 as it reached the tenth spot. While the rock band’s next two albums ended up receiving some attention on the indie charts, they never celebrated another release that was as powerful or resonant as ”Boston” was.
#7: “Young Folks” (2006)
Top 10 Singers You've Never Seen Young
Peter Bjorn and John feat. Victoria Bergsman Swedish indie rock crew Peter Bjorn and John catapulted to fame with this unlikely and deserving hit. Backed by an endlessly catchy whistle, Young Folks has just the right amount of clever songwriting that could easily make it a viral sensation in today's social media landscape. The song became a success around the world and on the US alternative music charts. And thanks to their simple and engaging production, the band further charmed audiences with appearances on TV shows. “Young Folks” was both a platinum track and a shining example of the indie movement going mainstream in the 2000s. Between its light and airy sounds and nostalgic qualities, we wouldn’t mind if this track made a comeback.
#6: “This Is Why I’m Hot” (2007)
Top 10 80s One Hit Wonders You Forgot Were AWESOME
MIMS Rapper MIMS burst onto the scene in 2007 with the single “This Is Why I’m Hot.” All swagger and attitude, the artist staked his claim in the music business with this number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The hip-hop track instantly transports you back to the mid-2000s with its bold production and memorable chorus. While it might not be the most verbose or complex message ever recorded, this song has enough entertainment value for any fun night out on the town. The rapper’s debut song and accompanying album “Music Is My Savior” introduced him to a massive audience. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to keep him in the spotlight for long.
#5: “Flavor of the Weak” (2000)
American Hi-Fi When pop punk was all over the radio in the early 2000s, bands like American Hi-Fi had a chance to rock out in front of massive crowds with “Flavor of the Weak.” The song expertly chronicles the ill-fated relationship between a girl and her loser boyfriend. While the guy seems to focus on substances and video games, he neglects his significant other in a bittersweet tale of a doomed couple. Outside of the sharp story, the track also has a collection of heavy riffs that will satisfy any fans of loud guitars. American Hi-Fi have remained a prolific act in their own right. But “Flavor of the Weak” stands as their calling card in the industry.
#4: “1 Thing” (2005)
Top 20 Songs From The 2000s You Forgot Were Awesome
Amerie Amerie’s certifiable pop classic “1 Thing” rocked radio stations upon release and should definitely get a resurgence on streaming playlists. Some might say her sound is reminiscent of other artists like Beyoncé. Considering that Amerie's vocals are powerful and the song is ridiculously catchy, we think she’d take that comparison as a compliment. Over a thrilling drumbeat, Amerie’s compelling performance reveals that she’s the real deal and has an enviable range. And it’s difficult to hear this kind of song and not imagine it working the dance floor of any year. Her four albums attempted to capitalize on her early success. However, nothing hit the zeitgeist quite like “1 Thing” did in 2005.
#3: “American Boy” (2008)
Casey James' Favorite American Idol Moments & Paying His Dues | From Kenya to London With Tymilyfe
Estelle feat. Kanye West British singer Estelle came to prominence in the states with her hit single “American Boy.” The catchy number engages the listener with its quality sounds and a star making vocal turn from the lead artist. Not to be outdone, Kanye West joins in on the session in a few lines to keep the energy high. The track managed to crack the top ten on the Hot 100 and it also won a well-deserved Grammy. After climbing the charts, Estelle would go on to break into TV with her role as Garnet on “Steven Universe” as well as some other musical ventures. But many people still remember her best as the vocalist for this dance-pop song.
#2: “Absolutely (Story of a Girl)” (2000)
Nine Days "Absolutely (Story of a Girl)" by Nine Day's stands as one of the signature rock tracks from the early 2000s. Originating on the album "The Madding Crowd," this classic tale has become synonymous with early 21st century pop rock. The song's opening lines also feature some of the most famous and oft-quoted words of any musical era. Using some surprisingly beautiful metaphors, Nine Days never got the credit they deserve for their inventive songwriting prowess. Their lyrics were even referenced in the spectacular 2022 sci-fi hit, “Everything, Everywhere, All at Once!” While the single might have been their only significant hit, the rock band continued on with several subsequent releases that have been chasing this one ever since.
#1: “Teenage Dirtbag” (2000)
Wheatus “Teenage Dirtbag” encapsulates all of the complicated feelings associated with being young and in love. The lyrics tell an intricate story that invites viewers to follow along and become invested in the singer's journey. Not only was it a big hit that went platinum in several countries, but it also reached the top ten on numerous music charts. Through its inclusion on the soundtrack of films like "Loser" and the TV show "Generation Kill," the single only grew in popularity. The self-deprecating words and the quotable chorus make for a production that's relatable to every listener. Even if you don’t know the band’s name by heart, there’s a decent chance you’ll come across their hit on a nostalgic radio channel or your favorite tv show.
