one-hit wonder
The term "one-hit wonder" is commonly used to describe artists, especially musicians, who achieve significant success with one hit but fail to replicate it.
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Definition
B2Music Industry
(idiomatic, informal)An artist or band that gains significant popularity with one song but does not achieve similar success with other works.
Example
- Nena is often called a one-hit wonder for her song '99 Luftballons.'
- Despite their other songs, Men Without Hats are remembered as a one-hit wonder for 'The Safety Dance.'
B2General
(idiomatic)A person or entity known for achieving significant recognition or success with one notable accomplishment.
Example
- The author became a one-hit wonder with her debut novel, never replicating that success.
- The startup was a one-hit wonder, famous for its first product but failing to innovate further.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "one-hit wonder":