That 90's Blog

From the angsty anthems of grunge to the infectious melodies of pop and the raw power of hip-hop, these 90s hits are the songs that defined a decade of experimentation, cultural shifts, and unforgettable tunes. So, put on your favorite flannel shirt, dust off your Discman, and get ready to rediscover the soundtrack of the 1990s – one year at a time.

1990: It Must Have Been Love by Roxette 

One of the most memorable 90s love songs, “It Must Have Been Love” exploded onto the scene following its inclusion in a pivotal moment in the blockbuster movie ‘Pretty Woman’. The lyrics poignantly express the pain of a relationship that has ended and lead singer Marie Fredriksson, delivers a powerful vocal performance that adds depth and passion to the song, meanwhile the combination of soaring strings, piano, and electric guitar creates an emotional backdrop that enhances the song’s impact, resulting in a sound that is both moving and instantly recognizable. Years later, the song remains an enduring favorite for fans of power ballads and serves as a testament to the lasting appeal of well-crafted love songs.

1991: Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana

The defining anthem for the disenchanted youth of the early 1990s. Released in 1991, the song tapped into the collective angst and frustrations of a generation that felt misunderstood and marginalized. Its raw, unfiltered emotion resonated with listeners, who found solace in the cathartic energy of Kurt Cobain’s powerful vocals and the band’s aggressive guitar riffs. The song’s success provided a platform for other alternative artists to flourish and the chaotic music video reinforced the song’s anti-establishment message, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon that remains permanently relevant.

1992: Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Both an ode to the underbelly of Los Angeles and a raw, honest portrayal of loneliness and alienation, “Under the Bridge” marked a turning point in the Chili Peppers’ career, showcasing their versatility and emotional depth. One of the song’s key appeals is its raw, honest portrayal of loneliness and alienation. The lyrics, penned by lead singer Anthony Kiedis, reflect his feelings of isolation during a period of the band’s life when he felt disconnected from his bandmates and the world around him. This introspection, combined with the melancholic guitar riff by John Frusciante, creates an emotional landscape that strikes a chord with listeners who have faced similar struggles. The song’s music video, directed by Gus Van Sant, completes its tapestry, making it an iconic representation of the early ’90s alternative rock scene.

1993: I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston

Originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1973, the song reached new heights of fame when Whitney Houston recorded her own version for the film ‘The Bodyguard.’ Houston’s rendition transformed the song into an iconic power ballad that showcased her incredible vocal range and emotive capabilities, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time. Her soaring high notes, combined with her delicate control and emotional nuance, make the song a true testament to her remarkable talent. Houston’s rendition has been widely regarded as one of the greatest vocal performances in music history and has inspired countless artists and fans alike. As perhaps the most memorable early ’90s love song and a testament to the enduring power of love, “I Will Always Love You” continues to captivate and inspire listeners around the world.

1994: Juicy by Notorious B.I.G.

Fueled by its unforgettable beat, which samples Mtume’s “Juicy Fruit”, “Juicy” stands tall as a cornerstone of hip hop music and one of the best 90s songs. The catchy, smooth rhythm, combined with Biggie’s masterful storytelling and flow, creates a truly memorable account of Biggie’s rise from poverty to stardom. It is here, with its relatable and inspirational message, where the song’s long lasting appeal lies. Biggie’s rags-to-riches story resonated with listeners who aspired to overcome their own hardships and achieve success. Through his vivid descriptions and candid reflections on his past struggles, Notorious B.I.G. solidified himself as one of the greatest rappers of all time and “Juicy” now serves as a timeless reminder of the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

1995: California Love by 2 Pac featuring Dr. Dre and Roger Trautman

The defining song of the West Coast rap explosion of the 1990’s, 2 Pac’s celebration of California’s unique culture and lifestyle remains an enduring favorite that continues to influence and inspire new generations of artists and fans alike. 2 Pac and Dr. Dre’s energetic and charismatic vocal performances capture the essence of the California spirit resulting in a powerful combination of distinctive rap styles and production techniques. Roger Troutman’s use of the talk box adds a unique sonic element to the track, further contributing to its distinct sound. Released shortly after 2 Pac’s release from prison (and shortly before his death), “California Love” served as one last statement by an era of rap that was about to come to a tumultuous end.

1996: Macarena (Bayside Boys Remix) by Los Del Rio

Originally released in 1993 by the Spanish duo Los del Río,”Macarena” became a worldwide phenomenon by 1996, topping charts and filling dance floors with its irresistible beat and has managed to endure as a fun, dance-inducing classic that epitomizes the joy and energy of the 1990s. One of the key elements that contributed to the song’s success is the iconic dance associated with it. The easy-to-learn steps, coupled with the song’s upbeat tempo, made “Macarena” a staple at parties, clubs, and gatherings of all kinds. This accessibility allowed people of all ages and skill levels to participate and enjoy the dance craze, making the song a unifying force across generations and cultures. Musically, “Macarena” has a distinctive blend of flamenco, rumba, and dance-pop that helped to pave the way for the increasing popularity of Latin music in mainstream pop culture.

1997: Wannabe by Spice Girls

The debut single of the Spice Girls, this pop anthem quickly became a worldwide sensation, catapulting the British girl group to fame and kickstarting the era of “Girl Power” that would dominate the late ’90s. Featuring a catchy, sing-along melody, the song’s simple yet empowering lyrics, which emphasize the importance of friendship and loyalty over romantic relationships, resonated with audiences and showed off the unique talents of Posh, Scary, Ginger, Sporty and Baby Spice. The impact of “Wannabe” extended beyond the music industry, influencing film, television and, notably, fashion. The Spice Girls’ bold, colorful, and eclectic style choices became emblematic of the decade’s fashion trends.

1998: You Get What You Give by New Radicals

A scathing social commentary disguised as an energetic pop-rock song with a very catchy chorus, “You Get What You Give” is an expression of the disillusionment with the superficial aspects of the entertainment industry and a call to focus on the more profound, meaningful aspects of life. Frontman Gregg Alexander’s emotive vocals, combined with the song’s lively piano riff and driving rhythm, create a unique sonic experience that is both uplifting and energizing, while never forgetting the bigger picture.embodies the spirit of a generation while delivering a universally relatable message. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to inspire and uplift, and it continues to be cherished by listeners as a symbol of hope and perseverance.

1999: I Want It That Way by Backstreet Boys

The song that solidified the Backstreet Boys’ status as the leading force in the late ’90s boy band era, its catchy pop sound, combined with the group’s smooth harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, make it a testament to the lasting appeal of well-crafted love songs. Written by Max Martin, this song contributed to the rise of the Swedish pop production sound, characterized by catchy hooks, polished production, and strong vocal harmonies. This is especially noteworthy in its song structure which employs a mix of ballad-like verses and an anthemic chorus that creates a dynamic contrast. Over the years, “I Want It That Way” has been covered, parodied, and referenced in various forms of media, including television shows, films, and commercials, highlighting its enduring popularity.

Can’t get enough of the 90s? Check our list of Ten 90s Movies That Defined The Decade and relive cinematic era that changed everything.