Surprising Second Songs from One-Hit Wonders

Share this post on:

A-ha Beyond “Take On Me” – The Unexpected Depth

Most people know A-ha for their synthpop anthem “Take On Me,” with its soaring vocals and unforgettable animated music video. What’s less known is their follow-up single, “The Sun Always Shines on T.V.,” which actually became a bigger hit in some countries. This track showcases a darker, richer sound, combining poetic lyrics with dramatic instrumentation. It’s an anthem of longing and hope, revealing a side of A-ha that’s more introspective than their debut. The song’s success in the UK, where it reached number one, proved the band’s talent went deeper than a single catchy chorus. Listening to it, you hear the band wrestling with fame and trying to solidify their place in music history. It’s a reminder that sometimes, greatness hides in the shadow of an even bigger hit.

Soft Cell and the Melancholy of “Say Hello, Wave Goodbye”

Soft Cell became synonymous with “Tainted Love,” a song that defined early ‘80s synthpop. But their follow-up, “Say Hello, Wave Goodbye,” is a haunting ballad about the end of a relationship. The song’s bittersweet lyrics and slow-burning melody show a different side of the duo—more reflective and emotionally raw. While it didn’t reach the same dizzying heights on the charts, it developed a cult following, especially among listeners who craved something deeper than their dancefloor smash. The song paints a vivid picture of heartbreak, making it relatable to anyone who’s ever had to let go. Its emotional honesty is both surprising and powerful, standing as proof that Soft Cell had more to offer than just a single hit.

Chumbawamba’s Anthemic Rebellion with “Amnesia”

Most remember Chumbawamba for the raucous, pub-singalong “Tubthumping.” Yet, their follow-up single “Amnesia” carried the same rebellious spirit but with sharper political commentary. The song criticizes societal forgetfulness and hypocrisy, wrapped in an upbeat, catchy tune. Its clever lyrics and pounding rhythm dared listeners to pay attention to the world around them. While “Amnesia” didn’t storm the charts like its predecessor, it revealed the band’s roots in political activism and punk. For those who listened closely, it was a wake-up call hidden in a pop package. The track’s message still rings true, showing that Chumbawamba was never just about having a good time.

Dexys Midnight Runners and the Heartfelt “Jackie Wilson Said”

“Come On Eileen” is the joyful, fiddle-fueled hit that made Dexys Midnight Runners a household name. Few realize that the band’s follow-up, “Jackie Wilson Said (I’m in Heaven When You Smile),” is a vibrant tribute to the soul legend Jackie Wilson. The song bursts with energy and warmth, blending pop, soul, and Celtic influences. It’s a celebration of music’s power to uplift and connect, wrapped in infectious horns and heartfelt vocals. While it didn’t dominate the charts in the same way, it’s cherished by fans for its exuberance and sincerity. The track underscores the band’s deep appreciation for musical history and their desire to do more than just repeat past glories.

Blind Melon’s Dreamy “Galaxie” After “No Rain”

Blind Melon’s “No Rain” is instantly recognizable, thanks in part to the famous “bee girl” music video. Following that runaway success, the band released “Galaxie,” a swirling, psychedelic rock song about lead singer Shannon Hoon’s love for his car. The track is raw, with gritty guitar riffs and confessional lyrics that offer a glimpse into Hoon’s turbulent life. “Galaxie” didn’t achieve the same mainstream adoration, but it’s a fan favorite for its emotional honesty and musical ambition. The song shows a band willing to take risks rather than simply mimic their earlier sound. It’s a window into the band’s evolving artistry, even as fame started to fade.

Gotye’s “Eyes Wide Open” After “Somebody That I Used to Know”

Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know” became a global phenomenon, but his single “Eyes Wide Open” offers a haunting reflection on environmental and personal responsibility. The song features a unique blend of acoustic and electronic sounds, with Gotye’s signature emotive vocals front and center. “Eyes Wide Open” explores themes of regret and foresight, urging listeners to consider the consequences of their actions. Its striking music video, featuring skeletal creatures traversing a barren landscape, adds to the song’s eerie atmosphere. While it never matched the chart success of his breakout hit, “Eyes Wide Open” is a testament to Gotye’s creativity and depth as an artist.

Fountains of Wayne and the Storytelling of “Hey Julie”

Everyone remembers Fountains of Wayne for “Stacy’s Mom,” a cheeky, power-pop track with a playful music video. Their follow-up single, “Hey Julie,” takes a softer, more intimate approach. The song is a sweet ode to the everyday struggles of work and love, featuring jangly guitars and earnest lyrics. It captures the exhaustion of working life and the comfort found in a partner’s support. While it didn’t catch fire on the charts, “Hey Julie” became a hidden gem among fans for its relatable storytelling and catchy melody. It’s proof the band could write songs that tug at the heartstrings as easily as they could make you laugh.

Harvey Danger’s Reflective “Sad Sweetheart of the Rodeo”

Harvey Danger’s “Flagpole Sitta” became a late-‘90s anthem for disaffected youth. Their next single, “Sad Sweetheart of the Rodeo,” took a more introspective turn, blending witty lyrics with a bittersweet melody. The song explores themes of longing, regret, and the search for identity, diverging from the rebellious tone of their first big hit. Though it didn’t receive the same radio play, it struck a chord with listeners who appreciated its vulnerability and clever wordplay. “Sad Sweetheart of the Rodeo” is a reminder that bands can have more than one emotional gear, even if the world only remembers the loudest one.

Los del Río’s “La Niña (Del Pañuelo Colorado)” After “Macarena”

The “Macarena” swept across the globe, turning Los del Río into a household name overnight. Their subsequent single, “La Niña (Del Pañuelo Colorado),” aimed to capture the same joyous party spirit but with a traditional Spanish twist. The song’s lively rhythm and catchy chorus made it a favorite at local celebrations, even if it never achieved international fame. It’s a tribute to Andalusian culture, filled with references to folklore and community. While the world may have moved on, “La Niña” remains a staple in the duo’s home country, proving that a second act can sometimes be more meaningful, even if quieter.

Semisonic’s Bittersweet “Singing in My Sleep”

Everyone knows Semisonic for “Closing Time,” the ultimate end-of-the-night anthem. Their follow-up, “Singing in My Sleep,” is a melodic, wistful song about the thrill of receiving a mixtape from someone special. The lyrics are filled with nostalgia and longing, capturing the magic of music as a means of connection. With jangly guitars and a soaring chorus, the song is both uplifting and tinged with sadness. While it didn’t become as iconic as “Closing Time,” it resonated with fans who appreciated its heartfelt simplicity. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the songs that come after the hit carry even more emotional weight.

Fastball’s Narrative Spin with “Fire Escape”

Fastball exploded onto the scene with “The Way,” a catchy tune inspired by a real-life mystery. Their next single, “Fire Escape,” kept their knack for storytelling alive with vivid lyrics about escapism and second chances. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious hook belie the bittersweet narrative at its core. It didn’t soar up the charts, but it found a home among fans who enjoyed Fastball’s blend of pop-rock and thoughtful lyrics. “Fire Escape” is a testament to the band’s ability to craft memorable stories, even if they’re not the ones everyone remembers.

Bowling for Soup’s Nostalgic “Emily” After “1985”

Bowling for Soup’s “1985” is a nostalgic romp through the pop culture of yesteryear, but their follow-up, “Emily,” is a pop-punk love song with a different kind of emotional punch. The track is energetic and heartfelt, telling the story of longing for someone who’s always just out of reach. “Emily” showcases the band’s talent for writing catchy, relatable songs that blend humor and sincerity. Though it never reached the same level of mainstream success, it became a fan favorite at concerts and among those who dug deeper than the radio singles. It’s a reminder that every band has more stories to tell than just the ones that make the biggest splash.

Wheatus and the Coming-of-Age “Leroy”

Wheatus will forever be linked to their quirky hit “Teenage Dirtbag,” the anthem for misunderstood youth everywhere. Their lesser-known single “Leroy” is a coming-of-age tale filled with quirky characters and small-town charm. The song’s playful melody and earnest lyrics paint a vivid picture of growing up and finding your place in the world. While “Leroy” didn’t achieve the same viral success, it’s a hidden gem that resonates with anyone who’s felt like an outsider. Wheatus proved they could capture the awkwardness and hope of youth in more than one song, even if only a devoted few noticed.

Right Said Fred’s Funky “Don’t Talk Just Kiss”

Right Said Fred made everyone laugh and dance with “I’m Too Sexy,” a song that became a cultural phenomenon. Their follow-up, “Don’t Talk Just Kiss,” brings a funky groove and a cheeky sense of romance to the dance floor. The song’s playful lyrics and infectious beat make it impossible not to smile. Though it didn’t reach the same dizzying heights as their debut, it found success in clubs and among fans who appreciated its tongue-in-cheek charm. “Don’t Talk Just Kiss” shows that Right Said Fred had more fun up their sleeves than anyone expected.

Mark Morrison’s “Moan & Groan” After “Return of the Mack”

Mark Morrison’s “Return of the Mack” is a ‘90s classic, known for its swagger and unforgettable hook. His follow-up single, “Moan & Groan,” is a smooth R&B track with a seductive edge. The song showcases Morrison’s distinctive voice and knack for melody. While it didn’t light up the charts in the same way, it remains a favorite among fans of ‘90s R&B. “Moan & Groan” proves that Morrison’s talent extended beyond a single comeback anthem, offering a glimpse into his artistic depth.

Share this post on: