Got to Be Real - Cheryl Lynn (1979) 10/14/22

What makes a one-hit wonder a one-hit wonder?

Sometimes, it's record company negligence or lack of promotion. Sometimes the artist just doesn't have another catchy song to release. Sometimes is might be bad luck. Sometimes. it might even be death.

But sometimes, as was the case with today's "Great Song of the '70s," there's no real good reason on the surface--just a lot of "wondering."

When Cheryl Lynn released "Got to be Real" from her self-titled debut album in 1979, all the stars were in alignment. Cheryl had written the song, along with David Paich and producer David Foster (who was known for his stellar work with Chicago and several other artists, and is currently married to and mentoring singer/actress Katharine McPhee).

Paich played the piano and Ray Parker Jr. ("Ghostbusters") played guitar.

The song was incredibly danceable, featured a great key change, and was a Billboard triple chart hit: (#1 Soul), (#11 Disco), and (#12 Hot 100).

It sold more than two million copies, and was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame in 2005.

"Got to Be Real" has appeared in several TV shows, including "South Park" and "Sex and the City," and was covered by Mary J. Blige and Will Smith for the film, "Shark Tale."

All of this...and Cheryl Lynn became a one-hit wonder. It's mind boggling.

The only consolation: a a co-writer of the song, she at least Cheryl gets royalty checks for it.

"Got to Be Be Real: "A "Great Song of 1979," and a song that's makes you "wonder" why Cheryl Lynn was a one-hit wonder.

Mary J. Blige & Will Smith: