30 Best 90s Songs: The Ultimate Throwback Playlist

The 1990s: a decade that redefined popular music. This era gifted us an incredible tapestry of sounds, from the raw energy of grunge to the smooth sophistication of R&B, the infectious pop anthems that dominated the airwaves, and the groundbreaking hip-hop that pushed boundaries. To celebrate this iconic period and introduce its unforgettable sounds to a new generation (and rekindle the memories of those who lived through it), we've compiled a list of the best songs from the 90s. This isn't just a collection of chart-toppers; it's a journey through the emotional landscape of a generation, showcasing the diverse styles that captivated millions. Think power ballads that soared to epic heights, unforgettable hooks that instantly became ingrained in popular culture, and innovative sounds that remain influential today. From the heart-wrenching vulnerability to the defiant energy that resonated throughout the decade, these songs capture the essence of the 90s.

This curated list offers a diverse sonic experience, traversing genres and highlighting the era's most iconic artists and their unforgettable contributions. Prepare to be transported back in time, or perhaps discover for the first time, the magic and lasting impact of these incredible tracks. You'll find yourself tapping your feet to the irresistible rhythms, feeling the emotional depth of some of the most poignant lyrics ever written, and ultimately understanding why the music of the 90s continues to resonate with listeners worldwide. It's a testament to the artistry and lasting power of these songs that they continue to inspire and entertain, a legacy that deserves to be celebrated and rediscovered.

  • November Rain
    1

    November Rain

    Guns N' Roses

    1991

    Use Your Illusion I

  • Smells Like Teen Spirit
    2

    Smells Like Teen Spirit

    Nirvana

    1991

    Nevermind (Remastered)

  • I Will Always Love You
    3

    I Will Always Love You

    Whitney Houston

    1993

    The Bodyguard - Original Soundtrack Album

  • Gangsta's Paradise
    4

    Gangsta's Paradise

    Coolio,L.V.

    1995

    Gangsta's Paradise

  • I Want It That Way
    5

    I Want It That Way

    Backstreet Boys

    1999

    Millennium

  • Bitter Sweet Symphony
    6

    Bitter Sweet Symphony

    The Verve

    1997

    Urban Hymns (Remastered 2016)

  • Baby One More Time
    7

    Baby One More Time

    Britney Spears

    1999

    ...Baby One More Time (Digital Deluxe Version)

  • U Can't Touch This
    8

    U Can't Touch This

    MC Hammer

    1990

    Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em

  • Un-break My Heart
    9

    Un-break My Heart

    Toni Braxton

    1996

  • Wannabe
    10

    Wannabe

    Spice Girls

    1996

    Spice

  • Livin' la Vida Loca
    11

    Livin' la Vida Loca

    Ricky Martin

    1999

    Ricky Martin

  • Black or White
    12

    Black or White

    Michael Jackson

    1991

    Dangerous

  • No Scrubs
    13

    No Scrubs

    TLC

    1999

    Fanmail

  • End Of The Road
    14

    End Of The Road

    Boyz II Men

    1992

    Cooleyhighharmony (Bonus Tracks Version)

  • Under the Bridge
    15

    Under the Bridge

    Red Hot Chili Peppers

    1991

    Blood Sugar Sex Magik (Deluxe Edition)

  • Ironic
    16

    Ironic

    Alanis Morissette

    1995

    Jagged Little Pill (2015 Remaster)

  • Vogue
    17

    Vogue

    Madonna

    1990

    Like a Virgin

  • Waterfalls
    18

    Waterfalls

    TLC

    1995

    Crazysexycool

  • MMMBop
    19

    MMMBop

    Hanson

    1997

  • The Sign
    20

    The Sign

    Ace of Base

    1994

  • You Oughta Know
    21

    You Oughta Know

    Alanis Morissette

    1995

    Jagged Little Pill (2015 Remaster)

  • Tubthumping
    22

    Tubthumping

    Chumbawamba

    1997

  • My Girl
    23

    My Girl

    The Temptations

    1964

    The Temptations Sing Smokey

  • Crash into Me
    24

    Crash into Me

    Dave Matthews Band

    1996

    Crash

  • My Heart Will Go On
    25

    My Heart Will Go On

    Celine Dion

    1997

  • I'll Be There for You
    26

    I'll Be There for You

    The Rembrandts

    1995

    L.P.

  • All I Wanna Do
    27

    All I Wanna Do

    Sheryl Crow

    1993

  • Macarena
    28

    Macarena

    Los Del Rio

    1996

  • Candle in the Wind 1997
    29

    Candle in the Wind 1997

    Elton John

    1998

  • Big Yellow Taxi
    30

    Big Yellow Taxi

    Joni Mitchell

    1970