We've covered Deion Sanders and Eddie Murphy on the podcast, but there's still a treasure trove of celebrities turned musicians to discuss. However, the case of Bruce Willis is extra strange. A year before Die Hard transformed him from a TV star to a full-blown movie star, he released the album The Return of Bruno, featuring the Top 10 hit "Respect Yourself." This album of mostly cover songs was released on Motown Records and received very modest reviews from critics. But will Bruce Willis get m...
Sep 04, 2024•46 min•Ep. 235
Matt really let this one slide for no other reason than it's one of his favorite songs, but there's a pretty good chance you don't know "The Whole of the Moon" by The Waterboys. In this episode of One Hit Thunder, we dive into this overlooked gem from 1985. Matt discovered the song through a Netflix Christmas movie, while our guest Paul Menotiades heard it through a friend, and for both of them, it left a huge impact. We explore the rich history of The Waterboys, a band led by Mike Scott known f...
Aug 28, 2024•35 min•Ep. 234
With the 25th anniversary of Jimmie's Chicken Shack's album Bring Your Own Stereo upon us, we're diving into their eclectic catalog, spotlighting their 1999 single "Do Right." Known for running the full gamut of musical styles—sometimes to the point where it might be too much—the band's versatility is both a strength and a challenge. Depending on your perspective, Jimmie's Chicken Shack might be a one-hit wonder, a two-hit wonder, or a no-hit wonder. Join us this week as we explore what they did...
Aug 21, 2024•38 min•Ep. 233
This week, Gene the Werewolf frontman Jon Belan joins us to dive into Nicolette Larson's 1978 hit "Lotta Love." As a young dreamer, Larson headed to San Francisco, where her talent quickly caught the attention of noteworthy artists, leading to collaborations with legends like Neil Young. As luck would have it, she discovered "Lotta Love" on a demo tape lying on the floor of Neil's car. Her voice paired with his song turned it into a hit. While it's easy to dismiss "Lotta Love" as just a minor hi...
Aug 14, 2024•40 min•Ep. 232
Patreon voted for this, so we're diving deep into the world of weed and hip-hop with Luniz (yes, their name is pronounced "Loonies") and their 1995 hit "I Got 5 On It." Both Matt and I were blown away by just how massive this song was when it dropped—contrary to what you might think, it was already a Top 10 hit long before it was resurrected by Jordan Peele’s movie Us. And let's not forget, Luniz boasts the most insane logo we've ever seen—seriously, it’s GROSS and hilarious. Join us as we explo...
Aug 07, 2024•40 min•Ep. 231
In this week’s episode, we’re joined by my longtime friend and music aficionado Shaun Rohland to celebrate the 1969 flower power anthem “Something In the Air” by Thunderclap Newman. We dive into how this song - with its reminder that “we got to get together sooner or later” - perfectly embodies the spirit of its era. Exploring the band’s intriguing history and its connections to The Who, we ponder whether there truly was something in the air that propelled this one-hit wonder to iconic status. T...
Jul 31, 2024•43 min•Ep. 230
This week, Zao guitarist Scott Mellinger joins us to explore Mountain's 1970 smash hit "Mississippi Queen." We ride the musical train back to the roots of metal, exploring how this southern rock anthem, with Leslie West's iconic guitar riffs and raw vocals, helped shape the heavy metal landscape. We trace the genre's evolution from its gritty beginnings to its modern, head-banging incarnations, and speculate on where it might go in the future. So, get your bell bottoms on and join us as we disse...
Jul 24, 2024•51 min•Ep. 229
In this week’s episode, we dive into the Canadian rock band Default and their 2001 hit "Wasting My Time," a song that left an indelible mark on what many would call the "butt rock" genre. Our Patreon supporters voted for this track, so Matt and I are breaking down the elements that make this tune both memorable and, in some ways, quintessentially generic rock. Default's name feels fitting as we struggle to pin down any genre beyond that. Despite their breakup in 2013, the band's lead singer Dall...
Jul 17, 2024•37 min•Ep. 228
This week, we’re thrilled to be joined by Joe and Toby of the Riffs on Riffs podcast to dive into the compelling story of mid-90s artist Tracy Bonham and her iconic hit “Mother Mother.” Tracy, a classically trained musician for over a decade, collaborated with producers who had helped bring Radiohead and The Mighty Mighty Bosstones to the ears of millions, infusing her music with a unique blend of alternative rock and classical influences. Despite her immense talent, record label issues stalled ...
Jul 10, 2024•56 min•Ep. 227
Today, the new Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F movie has dropped on Netflix, and in honor of that, Matt and I decided to dive into the iconic theme song "Axel F," written by Harold Faltermeyer. This breakdance-inspired instrumental not only became a Top 5 hit but also defined the sound of the '80s. We explore the artistry behind this unforgettable tune, marvel at the intense talent of composer Harold Faltermeyer, and try to pinpoint the last time an instrumental song topped the charts. Join us as we c...
Jul 03, 2024•32 min•Ep. 226
In this exciting episode, Chris Fafalios, Matt Kelly, Tony Hartman, Matthew Milligan, and Matt DiStefano dive into an auction draft to see who can curate the best batch of albums from the iconic year of 1984. Armed with a theoretical $100 each, the guys strategically bid on classics from Madonna, Prince, Springsteen, Van Halen, Metallica, and The Cars, while also trying to snag some hidden gems from bands like Cocteau Twins, The Replacements, and The Smiths. As they navigate this musical treasur...
Jun 26, 2024•1 hr 7 min
Ah, the 80s—a time when every celebrity had a secret (or not-so-secret) desire to dominate the music charts. But no actor-turned-singer had a more meteoric rise—and equally swift backlash—than Eddie Murphy. His Rick James-penned chorus for "Party All the Time" might be an earworm you can't escape, but let's be real: the rest of the song is as forgettable as a VHS tape in a Netflix era. This week, we've got a special guest who knows a thing or two about catchy tunes: podcaster and Less Than Jake ...
Jun 19, 2024•43 min•Ep. 225
In the year 1988, Johnny Hates Jazz came just shy of having the number one song in America. Despite their rapid rise to fame, the band disbanded before the year had even ended. This week, we dive into the short-lived career of the band, exploring their international success, the sudden end of their journey, and how it feels impossible that Matt had never heard this song before. Join us as we piece together the story of a band that left us ALL with shattered dreams. One Hit Thunder is brought to ...
Jun 12, 2024•44 min•Ep. 224
Labeling RuPaul as a one-hit wonder seems preposterous in theory. RuPaul has not only hosted a successful talk show and appeared in multiple hit films but also helms the immensely successful RuPaul’s Drag Race. However, all of this success was catalyzed by the song “Supermodel”, RuPaul’s lone charting hit. Joining us this week is Joe Ferejan, host of Fright School, who helps us strut out stuff on the runway! One Hit Thunder is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your mus...
Jun 05, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 459
In this episode, we dive into the infectious groove of Warren G's 1994 smash hit "Regulate," featuring the smooth vocals of the "King of Hooks," Nate Dogg. While we're taking some liberties with what constitutes a one hit wonder, we're willing to wager that amidst a few other notable chart appearances, you're most familiar with the iconic "Regulate." It's a perfect storm of a great sample, Warren G's laid-back rap style, and perfect storytelling reminiscent of Slick Rick, all converging to creat...
May 29, 2024•36 min•Ep. 222
In this episode of One Hit Thunder, we dive headfirst into the freshly released Apple Music 100 Best Albums list, offering our unfiltered, instant reactions to the selections. From timeless classics like The Beatles and Björk to modern trailblazers like Kendrick Lamar and Billie Eilish, we dissect each choice with a blend of praise and critique. We don't hold back as we highlight where we think Apple Music nailed it and where they missed the mark. Tune in to hear which albums we believe deserved...
May 24, 2024•1 hr 39 min
If you were putting together an informercial for a compilation of ‘90s hits, it’s almost certain that a clip of Jesus Jones “Right Here Right Now” would snag a good 8 second chunk of it. This incredibly optimistic alternative rock anthem captured the essence of revolutionary change in Europe and beyond, just a few months before the rise of grunge music made apathy seem decidedly cooler. Joining us this week is Mike Doyle, bassist for Lanemeyer and host of the podcast This Was The Scene, and toge...
May 22, 2024•50 min•Ep. 221
In this week's episode, we embark on a journey through the melodic landscape of Minnie Riperton's unforgettable 1975 hit "Lovin' You," where every note carries the essence of her unparalleled vocal mastery. While the song's presence in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials keeps it firmly in the public consciousness, facets of the life of the woman behind it may be surprising. More than a singer, Minnie was a mother, and her heartbreaking departure from this world came way too early. From ...
May 15, 2024•36 min•Ep. 220
During an era dominated by TRL and boy bands, soulDecision's "Faded" resonated with its infectious melody, showcasing the band’s unique fusion of musicianship and pop sensibilities (a formula that worked wonders only a few years later for Maroon 5). Setting themselves apart from the manufactured acts of the time, the band not only wrote their own songs but also skillfully played their own instruments. Yet, despite this authenticity, their moment in the limelight proved fleeting. This week, SayQu...
May 08, 2024•53 min•Ep. 219
You may remember this week's song as the theme song to a 90s teen drama, but buckle up because you're about to learn about the long and prolific career of BoDeans before they broke into the mainstream with "Closer to Free". Believe it or not, this influential jangle pop staple were a favorite of fans and critics alike for well over a decade before their big break. Thanks to our Patreon supporters, this week we dive into the long (and occasionally dark) history of this iconic band, tracing their ...
May 01, 2024•56 min•Ep. 218
Join us this week as we welcome back comedian and reality show star John Franklin to explore the irresistible "Come On Eileen" by Dexys Midnight Runners. While you may only remember them for their one US hit and for dressing in overalls, Dexys Midnight Runners are far more than just a novelty act. Led by the visionary Kevin Rowland, the band is a fully fledged concept group, revered by critics and cherished by fans worldwide. Tune in to discover the depth and brilliance behind this iconic band, ...
Apr 24, 2024•54 min•Ep. 217
Taylor Swift released THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT this morning as well as a version with 15 bonus tracks called THE ANTHOLOGY. Chris and Matt woke up at 5:30am to listen to it and give you their immediate reactions on it. The world has been begging for two guys with a podcast about one hit wonders to weigh in on Taylor Swift's eleventh album and we were happy to oblige! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Apr 19, 2024•30 min
Get ready to step onto the dance floor of nostalgia as we unpack the sentimental anthem of fatherly love, "Butterfly Kisses" by Bob Carlisle. If you've ever attended a wedding, chances are you've swayed to the heartfelt melody of this timeless track, which has become a staple choice for the cherished Father-Daughter Dance. However, amidst the emotions of this episode, there lies a strong and divisive opinion: it's Chris's least favorite one-hit wonder EVER. But can Matt's in-depth research on th...
Apr 17, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 216
Emerging from the haunting echoes of gothic rock pioneered by Bauhaus, Love and Rockets swiftly conquered the college radio scene during the mid-80s. By 1989, the band had made a significant leap into the mainstream with their smash hit "So Alive," inspired by vocalist Daniel Ash's glimpse of a captivating woman across a dimly lit room. Join us this week as we're joined by Mustard Plug guitarist Colin Clive, exploring his enduring admiration for Love and Rockets. Colin's firsthand experiences wi...
Apr 10, 2024•59 min•Ep. 215
We finally have the conclusion to our March Madness bracket for Singles Released in 1994. Who won the epic battle of Green Day's Basket Case vs. Counting Crow's Mr. Jones. But first we breakdown each song with some fun facts and history behind each song. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Apr 05, 2024•28 min
Five years after New Kids On The Block disbanded, Jordan Knight made a comeback with a lively, carnival-themed song about wild sex. The track boasted a memorable video, a contemporary sound, and an irresistible chorus. Despite knocking it out of the park with “Give It To You”, Knight fell short in comparison to another former boy band member who ventured into solo territory. This week, we explore why the most talented New Kid couldn't keep us wet with another hit. If you like the show, be sure t...
Apr 03, 2024•44 min•Ep. 214
We officially have our final matchup! Who are the last 2 songs to make it? Listen and find out and then vote with the link below! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5FZ2ZMS Also hear some thoughts on Fall Out Boy covering Punchline at a show! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mar 29, 2024•18 min
This week, we're welcoming back a One Hit Thunder favorite—indie rap sensation Spose. He has brought with him the deepest cut we've discussed in ages: Bran Van 3000's "Drinking in L.A.," a song that soared in Canada but made only a small ripple in the States. Yet, for Spose, hailing from Maine where the song's melodies permeated the airwaves, it left an impression on him that remains even decades later. Join us as we give this song a ring-a-ding-ding and decide if more people should have taken a...
Mar 27, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 213
The voters have determined the Final Four of the Singles From 1994 March Madness tournament! Tune in to find out who's in and who's out, and then cast your vote for the Championship round! Vote below: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2HQCQLY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mar 22, 2024•20 min
Are we One Hit Thunder? Who wants to know? Jimmy Ray seemed to possess all the makings of superstardom in the late 90s: a striking appearance, an unforgettable chorus that echoed his identity, and the backing of a renowned manager. He even embarked on a tour opening for one of the biggest boy bands of his time. Yet, as swiftly as he ascended, he vanished without a trace…until a few years ago. This week, One Hit Thunder transforms into Unsolved Mysteries as we endeavor to unravel the enigma surro...
Mar 20, 2024•41 min•Ep. 212
