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.
1November Rain
Guns N' Roses
1991
Use Your Illusion I
2Smells Like Teen Spirit
Nirvana
1991
Nevermind (Remastered)
3I Will Always Love You
Whitney Houston
1993
The Bodyguard - Original Soundtrack Album
4Gangsta's Paradise
Coolio,L.V.
1995
Gangsta's Paradise
5I Want It That Way
Backstreet Boys
1999
Millennium
6Bitter Sweet Symphony
The Verve
1997
Urban Hymns (Remastered 2016)
7Baby One More Time
Britney Spears
1999
...Baby One More Time (Digital Deluxe Version)
8U Can't Touch This
MC Hammer
1990
Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em
9Un-break My Heart
Toni Braxton
1996
10Wannabe
Spice Girls
1996
Spice
11Livin' la Vida Loca
Ricky Martin
1999
Ricky Martin
12Black or White
Michael Jackson
1991
Dangerous
13No Scrubs
TLC
1999
Fanmail
14End Of The Road
Boyz II Men
1992
Cooleyhighharmony (Bonus Tracks Version)
15Under the Bridge
Red Hot Chili Peppers
1991
Blood Sugar Sex Magik (Deluxe Edition)
16Ironic
Alanis Morissette
1995
Jagged Little Pill (2015 Remaster)
17Vogue
Madonna
1990
Like a Virgin
18Waterfalls
TLC
1995
Crazysexycool
19MMMBop
Hanson
1997
20The Sign
Ace of Base
1994
21You Oughta Know
Alanis Morissette
1995
Jagged Little Pill (2015 Remaster)
22Tubthumping
Chumbawamba
1997
23My Girl
The Temptations
1964
The Temptations Sing Smokey
24Crash into Me
Dave Matthews Band
1996
Crash
25My Heart Will Go On
Celine Dion
1997
26I'll Be There for You
The Rembrandts
1995
L.P.
27All I Wanna Do
Sheryl Crow
1993
28Macarena
Los Del Rio
1996
29Candle in the Wind 1997
Elton John
1998
30Big Yellow Taxi
Joni Mitchell
1970