What makes Only One by Goo Goo Dolls notable?

'Only One' reached notable chart positions on Billboard, including the Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart, which contributed to the band's rising popularity. The song's success also solidified their place within the alternative rock scene during a period when such sounds were gaining traction on mainstream radio. Released as part of the Goo Goo Dolls' transition from a punk-influenced sound to a more mainstream alternative rock style, 'Only One' came after their 1993 breakthrough album 'Superstar Car Wash'. This single marked a significant moment in their career, as it helped pave the way for their commercial success in the late 90s.

How many songs are on Only One?

Only One has 3 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Only One

Goo Goo Dolls · 1995

8 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of melodic hooks and earnest lyricism that captures the essence of mid-90s alternative rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Only One (radio edit) — This track showcases the Goo Goo Dolls' signature blend of catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, making it an anthem for longing and connection.
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Impersonality — With its introspective lyrics and driving instrumentation, this song highlights the band's knack for encapsulating emotional depth within accessible rock music.
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Hit or Miss — This track features a powerful chorus that exemplifies the band's ability to balance grit with melody, capturing the uncertainty of relationships.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

43 /100

Lowland

Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The single showcases solid songwriting and production typical of mid-90s alternative rock, with varied pacing across its tracks.

What we noticed

The lead track features a prominent guitar riff that drives the melody, while the verses are built around a steady drumbeat and layered vocals.
The second track, 'Impersonality', shifts to a more subdued tone with softer instrumentation and introspective lyrics, contrasting with the opener.
The final track, 'Hit or Miss', returns to an upbeat tempo but introduces a more complex arrangement with harmonized backing vocals.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.