1

The Knack - "My Sharona" (1979)

Image: Nik Korba

Remember "Ooh, my little pretty one, pretty one…"? You probably do, as it's the opening line of a hit that revolutionized the charts in the '80s: "My Sharona." This iconic track by The Knack reached No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for six weeks! While the band had another fairly well-known song, "Good Girls Don't," they're far better remembered for "My Sharona," a song that even younger generations still recognize.

2

Sugarhill Gang – "Rapper's Delight" (1980)

Image: Gordon Cowie

This song wasn't just a hit; it became one of the first rap tracks to reach mainstream audiences, marking a turning point for a genre that was still in its early stages. While "Rapper's Delight" was The Sugarhill Gang's only song to reach the Billboard Hot 100 in the US, it undeniably secured a lasting place in music history.

3

Lipps Inc. - "Funkytown" (1980)

Image: Kaja Reichardt

The 1980s kicked off with a hit that quickly became one of the defining songs of the decade: "Funkytown" by Lipps Inc., a disco-funk studio group formed in Minneapolis. The track was a worldwide success, hitting #1 not only in the US but also in 28 other countries!

4

Tommy Tutone - "867-5309/Jenny" (1981)

Image: Dan Cristian Pădureț

Few phone numbers became as famous as the one in Tommy Tutone's hit "867-5309/Jenny." This '80s hit wasn't just played everywhere; it jumped off the radio and into real life, with people dialing the number across different area codes. At its peak, it was getting thousands of calls a day!

5

Toni Basil - "Mickey" (1982)

Image: Rajiv Perera

If you hit the dance floor in the '80s, chances are you clapped, jumped, and sang along to "Mickey" by Toni Basil. The choreographer and actress scored her one and only big hit with this track, which became one of the decade's most unforgettable anthems.

6

Norman Greenbaum - "Spirit in the Sky" (1969)

Image: Adi Goldstein

Norman Greenbaum experienced huge success with his 1969 song "Spirit in the Sky." The tune reached the US top 10 and even hit No. 1 in several other countries, but sadly, he didn't have another hit that matched its sensation. Have you sung along to it?

7

Starland Vocal Band- "Afternoon Delight" (1976)

Image: Belinda Fewings

It's time for some soft rock with "Afternoon Delight," a 1976 hit by Starland Vocal Band. Not only did this song reach number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, but it also earned the band a Grammy Award for Best New Artist! Unfortunately, none of their follow-up songs reached the same heights.

8

Wild Cherry - "Play That Funky Music" (1976)

Image: Dee.

Wild Cherry also ranks among the great one-hit wonders of the 1970s, even though they rose to fame in the decade's second half. This Ohio funk rock band became a sensation thanks to their song "Play That Funky Music," a track that totally dominated radio stations.

9

Vanilla Ice - "Ice Ice Baby" (1990)

Image: A J.

One of the songs that defined the '90s was "Ice Ice Baby" by rapper Vanilla Ice. While he had other songs, this was undoubtedly the track that propelled him to fame and became his signature hit. Its catchy beat also helped bring hip-hop to a broader audience, making it an iconic moment in music history.

10

Bobby Bloom – "Montego Bay" (1970)

Image: Assad Tanoli

Bobby Bloom was an American singer and songwriter, best known for his only hit, "Montego Bay," released in 1970. This upbeat tune reached the Top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 8. While Bloom didn't replicate this success as a performer, he enjoyed a prosperous career as a songwriter for other artists.

1

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Image: Girl with red hat

Set against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties, The Great Gatsby captures the essence of an era defined by opulence and excess. The story follows Jay Gatsby, a wealthy and enigmatic man known for his lavish parties in West Egg, Long Island. Gatsby's unrelenting love for Daisy Buchanan, a beautiful and charming former debutante, drives the narrative forward.

As secrets unravel, the novel paints a stark picture of the American Dream's corruption , showcasing the moral decay hidden beneath the glitz and glamor of the Jazz Age. Fitzgerald's prose is both lyrical and poignant , making The Great Gatsby a timeless critique of ambition, love, and loss.

2

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Image: Peter Bond

In J.D. Salinger's classic novel, The Catcher in the Rye , readers are introduced to Holden Caulfield, a teenager navigating the complexities of adolescence in 1950s New York City. Expelled from his prestigious boarding school, Holden embarks on a journey through the city, encountering a series of characters who highlight his deep sense of alienation and disillusionment with the adult world.

His candid, often cynical narrative voice offers a raw and honest look at the struggles of growing up. Salinger's portrayal of Holden's inner turmoil and his quest for authenticity amidst the phoniness of society has resonated with readers for decades, making it a perennial bestseller and a touchstone of modern American literature.

3

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Image: Kabiur Rahman Riyad

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a beloved classic that delves into themes of racism and morality through the eyes of young Scout Finch. Set in 1930s Alabama, the story follows Scout, her brother Jem, and their father, Atticus Finch, who is defending a black man, Tom Robinson, falsely accused of raping a white woman.

The novel shines through its memorable characters, especially the wise and principled Atticus and the curious, brave Scout. Lee’s writing is engaging, mixing humor and serious themes to paint a vivid picture of a small Southern town grappling with injustice.

To Kill a Mockingbird is a must-read for its powerful storytelling. It’s a book that challenges you to reflect on your values and the world around you, all while telling a captivating story.

4

Moby Dick by Herman Melville

Image: Claudia Rancourt

Moby Dick is a tale of obsession and adventure on the high seas. The novel chronicles the journey of Ishmael, a sailor aboard the whaling ship Pequod, commanded by the enigmatic and vengeful Captain Ahab. Ahab's single-minded pursuit of the great white whale, Moby Dick, drives the crew into treacherous waters and difficult situations.

Through its richly detailed narrative and profound symbolism, the story explores themes of revenge, humanity, and the sublime power of nature. Melville's masterful storytelling and deep philosophical insights make Moby Dick a cornerstone of American literature and a compelling read for those who seek both adventure and reflection.

5

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

Image: Sonder Quest

Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath transports readers to the heart of the Dust Bowl era, painting a vivid portrait of the Joad family's journey from the barren plains of Oklahoma to the promise of a better life in California. Through the trials and tribulations of the Joads, Steinbeck exposes the harsh realities of poverty, displacement, and the exploitation of migrant workers during the Great Depression.

The novel's timeless themes of resilience, solidarity, and the pursuit of dignity resonate with readers across generations. Steinbeck's evocative prose and deeply human characters make The Grapes of Wrath a classic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

6

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

Image: Hans Vivek

Set during World War II, Joseph Heller's satirical masterpiece introduces us to Captain John Yossarian, a bombardier stationed on the fictional island of Pianosa. Yossarian's attempts to maintain his sanity in the face of bureaucratic absurdity and the arbitrary nature of military logic form the crux of the narrative.

The term "Catch-22" itself becomes a symbol of the absurdity and paradoxes inherent in the military system, where airmen are trapped in a no-win situation. Heller's dark humor and biting wit make Catch-22 a captivating and thought-provoking read, offering insights into the absurdities of war and the human condition. With its unconventional structure and memorable characters, this novel has rightfully earned its place as a classic American bestseller.

7

The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner

Image: Arno Senoner

William Faulkner's The Sound and the Fury delves into the tragic decline of the Compson family, Southern aristocrats grappling with personal and social disintegration. Set in Mississippi, the novel's innovative structure and stream-of-consciousness technique vividly capture the inner turmoil of its characters.

Each of the four sections offers a unique perspective, primarily through the eyes of the Compson siblings: Benjy, Quentin, and Jason. Their stories weave a complex tapestry of time, memory, and loss, reflecting broader themes of identity and change in the American South. Faulkner's masterful storytelling makes The Sound and the Fury a poignant exploration of family, pride, and the inexorable passage of time.

8

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

Image: Jp Valery

Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a seminal work in American literature, offering a vivid depiction of life along the Mississippi River in the mid-19th century. The novel follows the journey of Huckleberry Finn, a young boy who fakes his own death to escape his abusive father; and Jim, a runaway slave seeking freedom. Together, they embark on a raft adventure, encountering a series of colorful characters and challenging societal norms along the way. Through Huck's eyes, Twain addresses themes of race, identity, and moral growth with a blend of humor and biting social commentary.

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn remains a powerful exploration of freedom and friendship, celebrated for its authentic vernacular and enduring impact.

9

Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Image: Brandi Redd

Lolita is a provocative and masterfully written novel that describes the complexities of obsession and desire. The story is narrated by Humbert Humbert, a literature professor with a disturbing infatuation for the twelve-year-old Dolores Haze, who he nicknames Lolita.

Through Humbert's eloquent yet unreliable narration, Nabokov (a Russian expatriate who became an American citizen in 1945) explores themes of manipulation, guilt, and the dark side of human nature. The novel's controversial subject matter is handled with linguistic brilliance, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Despite its challenging themes, Lolita remains a significant work for its literary artistry and its unflinching look at the intricacies of forbidden love.

10

Beloved by Tony Morrison

Image: Sibel Yıldırım

Beloved is a masterpiece that beautifully intertwines the horrors of slavery with the power of love and memory. The novel, set after the American Civil War, follows Sethe, an escaped slave, as she grapples with the haunting presence of her past.

Morrison's lyrical prose and profound storytelling bring to life the emotional and psychological scars of slavery, making the reader feel deeply connected to the characters. The ghost of Sethe's daughter, Beloved, serves as a powerful symbol of unresolved trauma and the enduring need for reconciliation.

While the themes are heavy, Morrison's compassionate and poetic approach offers a sense of hope and resilience. Beloved is a poignant reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of confronting our history with honesty and empathy. It's a must-read for anyone who appreciates deeply moving and thought-provoking literature.

1

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s triple career

Image: E R

Arnold Schwarzenegger lifted his way to bodybuilding fame, then jumped into blockbuster movies, and later into California politics. Each chapter looked completely different from the last, yet he tackled them with the same drive. Few Americans can say they succeeded in three major worlds.

2

Ronald Reagan’s journey from film to the White House

Image: Nathan DeFiesta

Long before he sat in the Oval Office, Ronald Reagan was a rising actor in Hollywood. His path from movie sets to politics took time, but he carried his communication skills with him. By the time he reached the presidency, he was already a familiar face to millions.

3

Robert De Niro’s taste for fine dining

Image: Jakub Dziubak

Robert De Niro made his name in gritty films, yet he had a soft spot for world-class sushi. His partnership with chef Nobu Matsuhisa created a restaurant brand recognized worldwide. The chain brought Japanese fusion to a huge audience and showed that De Niro’s instincts go far beyond Hollywood.

4

Serena Williams is sewing her own path

Image: Aleksandr Galichkin

Serena Williams is known for dominating tennis, but she also made a name for herself in fashion. Her line on HSN featured modern, easy-to-wear pieces that made it to New York Fashion Week. With guidance from industry legends, Serena proved she could design clothes with the same confidence she brings to the court.

5

George Clooney’s smooth move into spirits

Image: Max Böhme

George Clooney and his friend Rande Gerber loved tequila so much that they created their own. What started as a private passion soon turned into Casamigos , a top-shelf brand with awards, celebrity fans, and plenty of buzz. The duo went from movie sets to tasting rooms without missing a beat.

6

Magic Johnson’s winning streak off the court

Image: Adeolu Eletu

After lighting up the NBA, Magic Johnson built a powerhouse company focused on investing in underserved communities. His deals stretched from movie theaters to restaurants to major teams. His business success soon rivaled his days on the court, turning him into one of America’s most admired entrepreneurs.

7

Kate Hudson turns activewear into a powerhouse

Image: Lauren

Kate Hudson co-founded Fabletics and quickly tapped into a growing fitness fashion market. The brand became the fastest-growing label under its parent company, TechStyle Fashion Group, and expanded from online sales into plans for dozens of physical stores. Even with challenges surrounding its parent company, Fabletics kept gathering new fans.

8

Will Ferrell builds a comedy hub

Image: 0xk

Will Ferrell helped launch Funny or Die , a comedy site filled with sketches, celebrity appearances, and user videos. It became a big name in online humor and produced shows and specials that fans still talk about. Even through bumps in the road, the company stayed influential in the comedy world.

9

Martha Stewart reinvents herself

Image: Ella Jardim

Before becoming the queen of homemaking, Martha Stewart modeled professionally and worked as a stockbroker. She later blended her love of cooking, decorating, and organization into a full lifestyle brand. That leap turned her into one of the most recognizable names in American media.

10

Kevin Costner tackles ocean cleanup

Image: OCG Saving The Ocean

Kevin Costner’s big career twist came after an oil spill caught his attention. He invested in technology that could separate oil from water and pushed the idea forward for years. When the Gulf of Mexico spill happened, BP bought dozens of its machines to help with the cleanup. His invention pulled in millions and showed a surprising side of the movie star.