One Hit Thunder
271 episodes - English - Latest episode: 23 days ago - ★★★★★ - 121 ratingsJoin musician Chris Fafalios (Punchline, Another Cheetah, Pack) as he listens to different one hit wonders with a revolving door of guests (including his bandmates and/or people from bands that he has toured with). After listening to the back catalog of the week's artist, they decide if the artist is a one hit blunder (shouldn't have had any success) or brought the one hit thunder (deserved to be much bigger than they were).
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Episodes
The 1984 Albums Fantasy Auction Draft
June 26, 2024 20:00 - 1 hourIn 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 trea...
"Party All the Time" by Eddie Murphy (f/ Chris DeMakes)
June 19, 2024 20:00 - 42 minutesAh, 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 Ja...
"Party All the Time" by Eddie Murphy (f/Chris DeMakes)
June 19, 2024 20:00 - 42 minutesAh, 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 Ja...
"Shattered Dreams" by Johnny Hates Jazz
June 12, 2024 18:41 - 43 minutesIn 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 ...
"Supermodel (You Better Work)" by RuPaul (f/ Joe Ferejan)
June 05, 2024 20:06 - 1 hourLabeling 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 ...
"Regulate (feat. Nate Dogg)" by Warren G
May 29, 2024 21:08 - 36 minutesIn 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 cr...
Apple Music 100 Best Albums Reaction Episode
May 24, 2024 08:00 - 1 hourIn 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 deser...
"Right Here Right Now" by Jesus Jones (f/Mike Doyle)
May 22, 2024 19:56 - 49 minutesIf 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 t...
“Lovin’ You” by Minnie Riperton
May 15, 2024 22:25 - 36 minutesIn 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. Fr...
"Faded" by soulDecision (f/Jenae Thompson)
May 08, 2024 19:46 - 53 minutesDuring 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, Sa...
"Closer to Free" by Bodeans
May 01, 2024 19:35 - 55 minutesYou 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 the...
"Come On Eileen" by Dexys Midnight Runners (f/John Franklin)
April 24, 2024 20:11 - 54 minutesJoin 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 ban...
Taylor Swift's THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT Reaction
April 19, 2024 18:26 - 30 minutesTaylor 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
"Butterfly Kisses" by Bob Carlisle
April 17, 2024 17:55 - 1 hourGet 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...
“So Alive” by Love and Rockets (f/ Colin Clive)
April 10, 2024 19:14 - 59 minutesEmerging 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...
Singles From 1994 March Madness Championship Round Results
April 05, 2024 08:00 - 27 minutesWe 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
“Give It To You” by Jordan Knight
April 03, 2024 21:05 - 44 minutesFive 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 sur...
Singles From 1994 March Madness Fifth Round Matchups
March 29, 2024 08:00 - 17 minutesWe 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
"Drinking in LA" by Bran Van 3000 (f/Spose)
March 27, 2024 20:08 - 1 hourThis 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 take...
Singles From 1994 March Madness Fourth Round Matchups
March 22, 2024 08:00 - 19 minutesThe 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
Singles From 1994 March Madness Fourth Round Match-Ups
March 22, 2024 08:00 - 19 minutesWe are into the Final Four! Who won last week and who do we have the highest odds on for this week!? Vote below: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2HQCQLY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"Are You Jimmy Ray?" by Jimmy Ray
March 20, 2024 19:35 - 40 minutesAre 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 su...
Singles From 1994 March Madness Third Round Matchups
March 15, 2024 08:00 - 15 minutesWe have our elite 8 for our March Madness Match-ups ... who makes it to the final four? Vote to make that decision! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/M2PV57G Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"Whoever You Are" by Geggy Tah (f/Taylor Morden)
March 13, 2024 21:00 - 54 minutesThis week we want to thank you all the great drivers out there. Maybe one of you helped inspire Geggy Tah to pen their hit "Whoever You Are". This laid-back track about letting you change lanes was a minor hit in the mid-90s and found itself in car commercials years later but unfortunately Geggy Tah couldn't get another hit. Fan of the band and Bampire director Taylor Morden joins us this week to break down this infectious tune. Donate to Taylor’s movie at http://bampiremovie.com/ If you like...
Singles From 1994 March Madness Second Round Matchups
March 08, 2024 09:00 - 18 minutesWe are moving into the Sweet 16 with the March Madness Poll! Make sure to get your votes in before Wednesday Night! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6VHKJ96 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Singles from 1994 March Madness Round 2
March 08, 2024 09:00 - 18 minutesWe are moving into the Sweet 16 with the March Madness Poll! Make sure to get your votes in before Wednesday Night! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6VHKJ96 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"We Are the World" by U.S.A. for Africa
March 06, 2024 19:38 - 43 minutesOn a remarkable night in 1985, an ensemble of music's brightest stars united to record a benefit anthem. This song soared to become one of the best-selling singles in music history and has since served as a touchstone for parodies and cultural nods. In celebration of the recent Netflix documentary chronicling the recording session, we at One Hit Thunder have chosen to make an episode about this iconic track—the sole chart-topper by U.S.A. for Africa. If you like the show, be sure to rate, re...
Singles From 1994 March Madness First Round Matchups
March 01, 2024 19:49 - 17 minutesWe decided to join the fun of March Madness by putting various singles from 30 years ago against each other! Please vote and make this the best March Madness. Vote for the 94 Rock Songs and Rap & Other Songs Here Vote for 93 Songs & Pop Music Here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Singles From 1994 March Madness First Round Match-Ups
March 01, 2024 19:49 - 17 minutesWe decided to join the fun of March Madness by putting various singles from 30 years ago against each other! Please vote and make this the best March Madness Vote for the 94 Rock Songs and Rap & Other Songs Here Vote for 93 Songs & Pop Music Here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" by Iron Butterfly
February 28, 2024 22:09 - 47 minutesWhether it was from an 80s horror movie, a Simpsons joke, or your dad’s record collection, you have undoubtedly heard the psychedelic sounds of Iron Butterfly’s 17-minute-long opus “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida”. This week, we’re joined by Joey Ritter to discuss extended drum solos, wild conspiracies, and the bizarre career of these hard rock pioneers that sold over 30 million copies of their landmark album. If you like the show, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. Email us at onehitthunderpodcast@...
"Crush" by Jennifer Paige
February 22, 2024 03:03 - 47 minutes“Crush” became a surprise hit for the previously unknown Jennifer Paige in the fall of 1998. Before her album was even released, she was out on the road, performing the song on television in support of her newfound fame. Unfortunately, she was never able to match the heights of the meteoric rise of her debut single. Our Patreon supporters demanded it, so this week, Matt and I dive into this iconic pop song, and we might solve the mystery (or rewrite history) of why Jennifer wasn’t able to rep...
The 1994 Albums Fantasy Auction Draft
February 14, 2024 19:51 - 1 hourIt could be argued that 1994 is the greatest year for music EVER, so the DREAM TEAM of Chris, Matt, Matthew Milligan, and Tony Hartman are once again reunited to try to outbid each other for the best of the best! A fifth drafter - returning guest Jim Logrando - is also added to the mix, adding an extra layer of complexity and competition to this fun exercise in budgeting money while gushing over some all-time favorite albums. If you like the show, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe. Email...
Chris and Matt Review Usher's Super Bowl Halftime Show
February 12, 2024 21:46 - 30 minutesLast night was the Super Bowl, so naturally, Chris watched for the love of the sport, while Matt tuned in for the love of funny commercials and the halftime show. Today, they break down their thoughts on Usher's Halftime Performance and also quickly go over their favorite commercials. They discuss who will play the Super Bowl halftime show next, commercials for Jesus, and the once-in-a-lifetime talent of Patrick Mahomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"Must be the Money" by Deion Sanders
February 07, 2024 20:56 - 36 minutesIt’s Super Bowl week here at One Hit Thunder, and to celebrate, we’re playing fast and loose with the term “hit” so we can discuss multi-sport athlete turned musician Deion Sanders and his 1994 single “Must Be The Money.” If you were a sports fan in the '90s, you knew how electrifying Prime Time was on the field, but did he match that intensity on the mic? Hammer seemed to think so, even if the public at large didn’t necessarily agree. Stay tuned so you can, at the very least, be impressed wi...
The 66th Annual Grammy Awards Reactions
February 05, 2024 21:26 - 40 minutesLast night Chris and Matt watched the 66th Annual Grammy Awards and today they're discussing their thoughts. The show was more a collection of performances than anything else so they discuss the best and worst performances and any award upsets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"Through the Fire and the Flames" by DragonForce (f/Matt DiStefano)
February 01, 2024 01:00 - 56 minutesIf you played Rock Band or Guitar Hero in the mid-2000s, you know DragonForce. If you mastered their power metal classic "Through the Fire and Flames," you'd be the talk of any party (the talk being, "imagine if that guy could actually play that song on a real guitar instead of tapping colors on a piece of plastic"). Joining us this week is One Hit Thunder favorite Matt DiStefano to discuss this cult-favorite band and their one and only trip to the Billboard Hot 100. If you like the show, be ...
“Everything Falls Apart” by Dog’s Eye View (f/ Jimmy Mowery)
January 24, 2024 21:27 - 1 hourThis week, we’re joined by my friend (and the only person I know who’s competed on The Voice) Jimmy Mowery to discuss one of his favorite songs from the ‘90s, Dog’s Eye View’s “Everything Falls Apart”. This quickly written song about a hangover was everywhere in 1996, and vocalist and songwriter Peter Stuart seemed to be a favorite of many of his more well-known contemporaries…so why did it all seem to fall apart for this promising band? Stay tuned as we investigate the band’s the back catalo...
Green Day “Saviors” Album Review
January 20, 2024 21:19 - 46 minutesIn this bonus episode, Matt and Chris review the new Green Day album "Saviors," which was released this weekend. Before we dive into the album, however, Matt tells us about going to the SiriusXM record release party in New York that Thursday. We also discuss our Green Day fandom leading up to this album and vent about how much we dislike Jimmy Fallon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"Take Me Out" by Franz Ferdinand
January 17, 2024 21:18 - 46 minutesIf you played EA Sports video games in 2005—or if you simply tuned into the radio—you couldn't escape Franz Ferdinand’s “Take Me Out,” a disco-inspired rock song with an unusual structure and an even stranger music video. Critics showered praise on this stylish band's hook-laden dance music, and although the song only reached #66 on the Hot 100, it has become an inescapable classic that remains relevant even today. At the request of our Patreon supporters, we’re diving deeper into the band th...
“Cheerleader” by OMI (f/ Tony Hartman)
January 10, 2024 20:47 - 43 minutesIf you reflect on the joyous music that graced the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 2015, it would be hard to believe that people were engaged in activities beyond falling in love and relishing a warm breeze. No song illustrated this point more vividly than OMI’s “Cheerleader,” a whimsical tropical tune that soared to the coveted #1 spot on the charts. However, the question remains: why didn’t the US clamor for more of OMI, considering he undeniably had songs worthy of being soundtracks to ...
"Send Me On My Way" by Rusted Root
January 03, 2024 20:41 - 44 minutesBlending influences from around the globe, Pittsburgh’s own Rusted Root made their mark on music history with their unforgettable 1992 hit, “Send Me On My Way”. This joyous tune only hit #72 on the Billboard Hot 100, but the song’s prominence in movies, TV, and commercials has eclipsed its initial chart performance. This week, we’ll dive further into the story and back catalog of Rusted Root to decide if we’d like to hold their little hand or tell them to run. If you like the show, be sure to...
"Tarzan Boy" by Baltimora (f/Jim Logrando)
December 27, 2023 21:00 - 39 minutesYou might not know the name Baltimora, but you have almost certainly encountered the anthemic “Tarzan Boy” in unexpected places. From iconic Listerine commercials to grand wrestling entrances, this unforgettable 80s song continues to live on decades after this Italian music project burst onto the scene. This week, we’re joined by Jim Logrando to unravel the mystery of who actually sang the song, the fascinating concept of the “millennial whoop”, and the biggest question of all: is there any n...
"Barbie Girl" by Aqua
December 20, 2023 22:46 - 47 minutesIn celebration of our 200th episode, we're revisiting our lost first episode and giving “Barbie Girl” another chance on One Hit Thunder. The resounding popularity of Aqua and their iconic song has experienced a second life, thanks to a resurgence in the wake of the unbelievably popular Barbie movie. As fate would have it, one of us is an Aqua superfan, and it's high time for us to dive back into the discography and cultural impact of Denmark's biggest musical export. Join us as we explore the...
Reactions to Spin Magazine's 88 Best Alternative Songs from 1998
December 18, 2023 03:58 - 23 minutesA listener tagged us in the Spin Magazine Instagram post about the Spin Magazine list of 88 Best Alternative Songs from 1998 saying they'd love to hear what our thoughts were on the listing. Since Matt and Jim Logrando were staying at Chris' house before the Punchline Holiday show this weekend they decided to go through the list and give you just that! Enjoy!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our Fourth Year Countdown
December 13, 2023 20:39 - 1 hourAs we conclude another year of podcasting we look back at the songs past and try to determine the ranking from worst to best. In the past this was done by Chris and Matt and a guest ... this year we did it as a livestream event featuring 5 guests!! We were joined by Podcast fan favorites Matt DiStefano, PJ Caruso, Jim Logrando, Joey Ritter and Johnny Yetsconish You can watch the extended livestream version of this episode with the link below! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvhXzGLKxUQ Learn...
"My Boyfriend's Back" by The Angels
December 06, 2023 22:08 - 36 minutesHey now, hey now, One Hit Thunder’s back! This week, we're stepping back in time to explore the fascinating story behind one of the early '60s most beloved hits. A group of talented teenagers from New Jersey, The Angels, joined forces with three brilliant songwriters to craft “My Boyfriend’s Back”, a timeless classic that was inspired by a real-life incident. This iconic song not only left an undeniable mark on the era but continues to resonate with audiences today. We don't often dive into t...
Chris Reviews Matt's Spotify Wrapped 2023
December 01, 2023 09:00 - 28 minutesIt's the best time of the year ... Spotify Wrapped Season. Since Matt has the most unpredictable of musical tastes, Chris gives a live reaction to his top 20 most listened to songs this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
“Magic” by Pilot (f/Kai Dodson)
November 29, 2023 21:46 - 43 minutesThis week, we’re taking flight with the Scottish band Pilot and their timeless hit “Magic”. Together with our guest Kai Dodson, we get right to the point: does selling out and changing the lyrics to your hit to hawk pharmaceuticals change the legacy of a song? We also dive into Pilot’s musical journey that intersected with an impressive array of legendary musicians and bands. Stay tuned to see if we think the sun should continue to shine on the creators of this pop gem, or if we think the mag...
"Connected" by Stereo MCs
November 22, 2023 21:00 - 41 minutesToday, we're diving into the infectious world of Stereo MCs and their iconic track, "Connected." Even if you think you don't know it, chances are you've crossed paths with this chart-topping British group's masterpiece, thanks to a cleverly placed sample and irresistible vocal melody that propelled them onto the US charts. These musical innovators also made waves by producing remixes for some of the biggest artists of their time. Despite their rise to fame in the early 90s, it took them over ...
“I Love It (feat. Charli XCX)" by Icona Pop (f/Sarah and Maggie of Unstable Topics)
November 15, 2023 21:00 - 53 minutesThis week, we're joined by Sarah and Maggie from the Unstable Topics podcast to discuss the unforgettable hit “I Love It” by Icona Pop. In the decade since its release, this song has remained a constant presence, gracing commercials, television, and the radio. Together, we'll explore the mystery of Charlie XCX's involvement in the song, share our emotional connections to it, and reminisce about the world of 2013, a time when this song made a significant impact on the music scene and beyond. G...