Top 100 90’s Songs: Relive the Decade of Iconic Music Hits

The 1990s was a transformative decade for music, birthing a dynamic mix of hip-hop, R&B, and pop that continues to influence today’s biggest artists. From the foundational beats that inspire figures like Drake and Kanye West to the pop anthems that dominated the Billboard charts, the 90s set a high bar for musical innovation and diversity.

This curated list celebrates the best songs from the 90s—tracks that not only defined a generation but also paved the way for modern music trends. These are the songs that were the soundtrack to a decade of change, influencing everything from fashion to cultural attitudes.

Presented below is the Nolan Method’s Top 90s songs, a meticulously compiled list that captures the decade’s most impactful hits. This selection of the best songs of the 90s is based on a comprehensive scoring system that considers various metrics including single sales, radio airplay, digital downloads, and streaming numbers. This method ensures a well-rounded view of what truly resonated with listeners throughout the decade.

Each song in this list is more than just a tune; it’s a cultural artifact, encapsulating moments and movements from the 1990s. As you explore these hits, take a trip down memory lane to when these songs were the backdrop of everyday life, shaping the zeitgeist of a generation. These aren’t just popular songs; they are the best 90s songs that have stood the test of time.

The Nolan Method, developed by Jarrett Nolan, a key contributor at Top40Weekly, uses a point system based on an artist’s performance on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This objective approach ensures that the rankings are data-driven and reflect actual popularity and impact.

Explore more about the musical landscape of the decade with our Year in Music series, crafted by radio and music industry veteran Ed Osborne. These overviews highlight the trends and key artists that shaped the Top 40 charts during this vibrant decade.

Further explore the 90s music scene with our Nolan method-based lists of the Top 100 Artists of the 90s and Top 100 Albums of the 90s. Listen to these iconic tracks on our Spotify playlist: 1990s Playlists.

Navigate the 90s Music Time Capsule: 1990 | 1991 | 1992 | 1993 | 1994 | 1995 | 1996 | 1997 | 1998 | 1999

1990: The Dawn of a New Decade in Music

1990 marked the beginning of a decade that would redefine music. Pop sensibilities still reigned supreme, but the undercurrents of hip-hop and R&B were growing stronger, setting the stage for the diverse sounds that would dominate the charts. This year saw the rise of both established artists and fresh faces, creating a rich tapestry of sounds that captured the transition into a new era.

1. HOLD ON by Wilson Phillips
2. IT MUST HAVE BEEN LOVE by Roxette
3. POISON by Bell Biv DeVoe
4. NOTHING COMPARES 2 U by Sinéad O’Connor
5. VISION OF LOVE by Mariah Carey
6. VOGUE by Madonna
7. DO ME! by Bell Biv DeVoe
8. HOLD ON by En Vogue
9. CRADLE OF LOVE by Billy Idol
10. CLOSE TO YOU by Maxi Priest
11. ESCAPADE by Janet Jackson
12. BLAZE OF GLORY by Jon Bon Jovi
13. RUB YOU THE RIGHT WAY by Johnny Gill
14. HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO LIVE WITHOUT YOU by Michael Bolton
15. ALL I WANNA DO IS MAKE LOVE TO YOU by Heart
16. BLACK VELVET by Alannah Myles
17. ALL AROUND THE WORLD by Lisa Stansfield
18. PUMP UP THE JAM by Technotronic featuring Felly
19. THE POWER by Snap!
20. SHE AIN’T WORTH IT by Glenn Medeiros and Bobby Brown
21. I WANNA BE RICH by Calloway
22. (CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT YOUR) LOVE AND AFFECTION by Nelson
23. RELEASE ME by Wilson Phillips
24. OPPOSITES ATTRACT by Paula Abdul and The Wild Pair
25. IF WISHES CAME TRUE by Sweet Sensation
26. SENDING ALL MY LOVE by Linear
27. ANOTHER DAY IN PARADISE by Phil Collins
28. UNSKINNY BOP by Poison
29. LOVE WILL LEAD YOU BACK by Taylor Dayne
30. STEP BY STEP by New Kids on the Block
31. TWO TO MAKE IT RIGHT by Seduction
32. DON’T WANNA FALL IN LOVE by Jane Child
33. I DON’T HAVE THE HEART by James Ingram
34. U CAN’T TOUCH THIS by MC Hammer
35. ICE ICE BABY by Vanilla Ice
36. EVERYTHING by Jody Watley
37. DOWNTOWN TRAIN by Rod Stewart
38. DANGEROUS by Roxette
39. ALRIGHT by Janet Jackson
40. ROAM by The B-52s
41. DON’T KNOW MUCH by Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville
42. I’LL BE YOUR EVERYTHING by Tommy Page
43. HERE AND NOW by Luther Vandross
44. CAN’T STOP by After 7
45. HAVE YOU SEEN HER by MC Hammer
46. UNCHAINED MELODY by the Righteous Brothers
47. RHYTHM NATION by Janet Jackson
48. BLACK CAT by Janet Jackson
49. READY OR NOT by After 7
50. COME BACK TO ME by Janet Jackson
51. THE HUMPTY DANCE by Digital Underground
52. HOW CAN WE BE LOVERS by Michael Bolton
53. DO YOU REMEMBER by Phil Collins
54. JUST BETWEEN YOU AND ME by Lou Gramm
55. PRAYING FOR TIME by George Michael
56. GIVING YOU THE BENEFIT by Pebbles
57. I WISH IT WOULD RAIN DOWN by Phil Collins
58. NO MORE LIES by Michel’le
59. SOMETHING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO HEAVEN by Phil Collins
60. I’LL BE YOUR SHELTER by Taylor Dayne
61. FREE FALLIN’ by Tom Petty
62. JANIE’S GOT A GUN by Aerosmith
63. WE DIDN’T START THE FIRE by Billy Joel
64. WITH EVERY BEAT OF MY HEART by Taylor Dayne
65. LOVE TAKES TIME by Mariah Carey
66. GIRLS NITE OUT by Tyler Collins
67. LOVE SONG by Tesla
68. BACK TO LIFE (HOWEVER DO YOU WANT ME) by Soul II Soul featuring Caron Wheeler
69. ENJOY THE SILENCE by Depeche Mode
70. KING OF WISHFUL THINKING by Go West
71. GET UP! (BEFORE THE NIGHT IS OVER) by Technotronic featuring Ya Kid K
72. PRICE OF LOVE by Bad English
73. EPIC by Faith No More
74. EVERYBODY EVERYBODY by Black Box
75. I REMEMBER YOU by Skid Row
76. MAKE YOU SWEAT (#14) by Keith Sweat
77. WHAT KIND OF MAN WOULD I BE? by Chicago
78. I GO TO EXTREMES by Billy Joel
79. JERK OUT by The Time
80. ROMEO by Dino
81. JUST LIKE JESSE JAMES by Cher
82. C’MON AND GET MY LOVE by D Mob featuring Cathy Dennis
83. WHAT IT TAKES by Aerosmith
84. WHIP APPEAL by Babyface
85. ALL OR NOTHING by Milli Vanilli
86. FOREVER by Kiss
87. WHEN I’M BACK ON MY FEET AGAIN by Michael Bolton
88. OH GIRL by Paul Young
89. HERE WE ARE by Gloria Estefan
90. THIS ONE’S FOR THE CHILDREN by New Kids on the Block
91. MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY by Alias
92. WE CAN’T GO WRONG by The Cover Girls
93. WITHOUT YOU by Mötley Crüe
94. PRAY by M.C. Hammer
95. WHOLE WIDE WORLD by A’me Lorain
96. SWING THE MOOD by Jive Bunny and the Mastermixers
97. BLAME IT ON THE RAIN by Milli Vanilli
98. THIEVES IN THE TEMPLE by Prince
99. FEELS GOOD by Tony! Toni! Tone!
100. JUST A FRIEND by Biz Markie

1991: Genre Fusion and Chart-Topping Anthems

1991 witnessed the rise of genre-bending hits and power ballads that dominated airwaves. From the explosion of New Jack Swing to the enduring appeal of rock anthems, 1991’s top songs showcased a decade embracing diverse musical styles and solidifying the sound of the 90s. This year’s hits captured a generation ready for change and musical exploration.

1. (EVERYTHING I DO) I DO IT FOR YOU by Bryan Adams
2. I WANNA SEX YOU UP by Color Me Badd
3. RUSH RUSH by Paula Abdul
4. GONNA MAKE YOU SWEAT (EVERYBODY DANCE NOW) by C+C Music Factory
5. I LIKE THE WAY (THE KISSING GAME) by Hi-Five
6. UNBELIEVABLE by EMF
7. ONE MORE TRY by Timmy T
8. THE FIRST TIME by Surface
9. MORE THAN WORDS by Extreme
10. MOTOWNPHILLY by Boyz II Men
11. BABY BABY by Amy Grant
12. EMOTIONS by Mariah Carey
13. SOMEDAY by Mariah Carey
14. ROMANTIC by Karyn White
15. HIGH ENOUGH by Damn Yankees
16. LOVE WILL NEVER DO (WITHOUT YOU) by Janet Jackson
17. GOOD VIBRATIONS by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch featuring Loleatta Holloway
18. DO ANYTHING by Natural Selection
19. I ADORE MI AMOR by Color Me Badd
20. RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW by Jesus Jones
21. SENSITIVITY by Ralph Tresvant
22. ALL THE MAN THAT I NEED by Whitney Houston
23. I DON’T WANNA CRY by Mariah Carey
24. HOLD YOU TIGHT by Tara Kemp
25. EVERY HEARTBEAT by Amy Grant
26. TOUCH ME (ALL NIGHT LONG) by Cathy Dennis
27. JOYRIDE by Roxette
28. LOSING MY RELIGION by R.E.M.
29. JUSTIFY MY LOVE by Madonna
30. BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (THE POSTMAN SONG) by Stevie B
31. YOU’RE IN LOVE by Wilson Phillips
32. I’VE BEEN THINKING ABOUT YOU by Londonbeat
33. FROM A DISTANCE by Bette Midler
34. WIND OF CHANGE by Scorpions
35. SUMMERTIME by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
36. HERE WE GO (LET’S ROCK N’ ROLL) by C+C Music Factory featuring Freedom Williams & Zelma Davis
37. IT AIN’T OVER ‘TIL IT’S OVER by Lenny Kravitz
38. HOLE HEARTED by Extreme
39. THE PROMISE OF A NEW DAY by Paula Abdul
40. WHERE DOES MY HEART BEAT NOW by Celine Dion
41. COMING OUT OF THE DARK by Gloria Estefan
42. LOVE IS A WONDERFUL THING by Michael Bolton
43. LOVE OF A LIFETIME by FireHouse
44. IESHA by Another Bad Creation
45. RHYTHM OF MY HEART by Rod Stewart
46. FADING LIKE A FLOWER (EVERY TIME YOU LEAVE) by Roxette
47. P.A.S.S.I.O.N. by Rythm Syndicate
48. CAN’T STOP THIS THING WE STARTED by Bryan Adams
49. THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO HMMM… by C+C Music Factory
50. THIS HOUSE by Tracie Spencer
51. POWER OF LOVE/LOVE POWER by Luther Vandross
52. I CAN’T WAIT ANOTHER MINUTE by Hi-Five
53. I TOUCH MYSELF by Divinyls
54. SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT by Bonnie Raitt
55. AFTER THE RAIN by Nelson
56. PLAY THAT FUNKY MUSIC by Vanilla Ice
57. TOM’S DINER by DNA featuring Suzanne Vega
58. IMPULSIVE by Wilson Phillips
59. NOW THAT WE FOUND LOVE by Heavy D & the Boyz
60. TEMPTATION by Corina
61. CREAM by Prince and The New Power Generation
62. 3 A.M. ETERNAL by The KLF
63. TIME, LOVE AND TENDERNESS by Michael Bolton
64. SADENESS (PART I) by Enigma
65. AROUND THE WAY GIRL by LL Cool J
66. TOO MANY WALLS by Cathy Dennis
67. I’M YOUR BABY TONIGHT by Whitney Houston
68. SIGNS by Tesla
69. CRAZY by Seal
70. CRY FOR HELP by Rick Astley
71. O.P.P. by Naughty by Nature
72. SILENT LUCIDITY by Queensrÿche
73. I’LL BE THERE by The Escape Club
74. THE WAY YOU DO THE THINGS YOU DO by UB40
75. SHOW ME THE WAY by Styx
76. HERE I AM (COME AND TAKE ME) by UB40
77. THE ONE AND ONLY by Chesney Hawkes
78. I’LL GIVE ALL MY LOVE TO YOU by Keith Sweat
79. GET HERE by Oleta Adams
80. PLACE IN THIS WORLD by Michael W. Smith
81. STRIKE IT UP by Black Box
82. I’M NOT IN LOVE by Will to Power
83. SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN by Poison
84. REAL REAL REAL by Jesus Jones
85. EVERYBODY PLAYS THE FOOL by Aaron Neville
86. WICKED GAME by Chris Isaak
87. PIECE OF MY HEART by Tara Kemp
88. RICO SUAVE by Gerardo
89. ROUND AND ROUND by Tevin Campbell
90. LOVE TAKES TIME by Mariah Carey
91. MILES AWAY by Winger
92. ALL THIS TIME by Sting
93. JUST ANOTHER DREAM by Cathy Dennis
94. FREEDOM 90 by George Michael
95. DISAPPEAR by INXS
96. DON’T CRY by Guns N’ Roses
97. ENTER SANDMAN by Metallica
98. I SAW RED by Warrant
99. SHINY HAPPY PEOPLE by R.E.M.
100. THE MOTOWN SONG by Rod Stewart

1992: The Exploding Soundscape of the Early 90s

1992 was a year of groundbreaking hits and genre-defining moments. From the emergence of grunge to the continued dominance of pop and R&B, the music of 1992 showcased a decade hitting its stride. Iconic tracks from this year not only topped charts but also shaped the cultural conversation, proving the 90s were a force to be reckoned with.

1. BABY GOT BACK by Sir Mix-a-Lot
2. END OF THE ROAD by Boyz II Men
3. JUST ANOTHER DAY by Jon Secada
4. BABY-BABY-BABY by TLC
5. SAVE THE BEST FOR LAST by Vanessa Williams
6. TEARS IN HEAVEN by Eric Clapton
7. UNDER THE BRIDGE by Red Hot Chili Peppers
8. MY LOVIN’ (YOU’RE NEVER GONNA GET IT) by En Vogue
9. JUMP by Kris Kross
10. ALL 4 LOVE by Color Me Badd
11. I LOVE YOUR SMILE by Shanice
12. ACHY BREAKY HEART by Billy Ray Cyrus
13. NOVEMBER RAIN by Guns N’ Roses
14. I’M TOO SEXY by Right Said Fred
15. JUMP AROUND by House of Pain
16. LIFE IS A HIGHWAY by Tom Cochrane
17. SOMETIMES LOVE JUST AIN’T ENOUGH by Patty Smyth and Don Henley
18. MASTERPIECE by Atlantic Starr
19. TO BE WITH YOU by Mr. Big
20. FINALLY by CeCe Peniston
21. REMEMBER THE TIME by Michael Jackson
22. SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT by Nirvana
23. CAN’T LET GO by Mariah Carey
24. HUMPIN’ AROUND by Bobby Brown
25. LIVE AND LEARN by Joe Public
26. I’LL BE THERE by Mariah Carey featuring Trey Lorenz
27. DIAMONDS AND PEARLS by Prince and The New Power Generation
28. DON’T LET THE SUN GO DOWN ON ME by George Michael and Elton John
29. IF YOU ASKED ME TO by Celine Dion
30. AIN’T 2 PROUD 2 BEG by TLC
31. THIS USED TO BE MY PLAYGROUND by Madonna
32. TELL ME WHAT YOU WANT ME TO DO by Tevin Campbell
33. THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE by Luther Vandross and Janet Jackson featuring Bell Biv Devoe and Ralph Tresvant
34. COME AND TALK TO ME by Jodeci
35. BLACK OR WHITE by Michael Jackson
36. GIVING HIM SOMETHING HE CAN FEEL by En Vogue
37. DAMN I WISH I WAS YOUR LOVER by Sophie B. Hawkins
38. SHE’S PLAYING HARD TO GET by Hi-Five
39. MAKE IT HAPPEN by Mariah Carey
40. 2 LEGIT 2 QUIT by Hammer
41. TENNESSEE by Arrested Development
42. BREAKIN’ MY HEART (PRETTY BROWN EYES) by Mint Condition
43. BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY by Queen
44. GOOD FOR ME by Amy Grant
45. THE ONE by Elton John
46. PLEASE DON’T GO by KWS
47. STAY by Shakespears Sister
48. MOVE THIS by Technotronic featuring Ya Kid K
49. WISHING ON A STAR by The Cover Girls
50. IT’S SO HARD TO SAY GOODBYE TO YESTERDAY by Boyz II Men
51. I CAN’T DANCE by Genesis
52. PEOPLE EVERYDAY by Arrested Development
53. I’D DIE WITHOUT YOU by P.M. Dawn
54. HAZARD by Richard Marx
55. SET ADRIFT ON MEMORY BLISS by P.M. Dawn
56. MYSTERIOUS WAYS by U2
57. ONE by U2
58. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST by Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson
59. ALL I WANT by Toad the Wet Sprocket
60. HAVE YOU EVER NEEDED SOMEONE SO BAD by Def Leppard
61. IN THE CLOSET by Michael Jackson
62. TOO FUNKY by George Michael
63. HOLD ON MY HEART by Genesis
64. NO SON OF MINE by Genesis
65. KEEP ON WALKIN’ by CeCe Peniston
66. RHYTHM IS A DANCER by Snap!
67. HOW DO YOU TALK TO AN ANGEL by The Heights
68. THE WAY I FEEL ABOUT YOU by Karyn White
69. WILDSIDE by Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch
70. DO I HAVE TO SAY THE WORDS? by Bryan Adams
71. WARM IT UP by Kris Kross
72. EROTICA by Madonna
73. FREE YOUR MIND by En Vogue
74. WHEN A MAN LOVES A WOMAN by Michael Bolton
75. WHEN I LOOK INTO YOUR EYES by FireHouse
76. MISSING YOU NOW by Michael Bolton featuring Kenny G
77. THOUGHT I’D DIED AND GONE TO HEAVEN by Bryan Adams
78. REAL LOVE by Mary J. Blige
79. EVERYTHING ABOUT YOU by Ugly Kid Joe
80. ADDAMS GROOVE by Hammer
81. BLOWING KISSES IN THE WIND by Paula Abdul
82. EVERYTHING CHANGES by Kathy Troccoli
83. THAT’S WHAT LOVE IS FOR by Amy Grant
84. JUSTIFIED AND ANCIENT by The KLF featuring Tammy Wynette
85. FRIDAY I’M IN LOVE by The Cure
86. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FRIENDS by TLC
87. UHH AHH by Boyz II Men
88. WOULD I LIE TO YOU? by Charles & Eddie
89. FOREVER LOVE by Color Me Badd
90. LET’S GET ROCKED by Def Leppard
91. HUMAN TOUCH/BETTER DAYS by Bruce Springsteen
92. KEEP COMING BACK by Richard Marx
93. BACK TO THE HOTEL by N2Deep
94. THINKIN’ BACK by Color Me Badd
95. I WANNA LOVE YOU by Jade
96. TAKE THIS HEART by Richard Marx
97. SLOW MOTION by Color Me Badd
98. O.P.P. by Naughty by Nature
99. RUMP SHAKER by Wreckx-N-Effect
100. WE GOT A LOVE THANG by CeCe Peniston

1993: Musical Boundaries are Broken and New Genres Emerge

1993 saw genres blur and new sounds explode onto the scene. Hip-hop and R&B continued their ascent, while pop music adapted and innovated. This year’s top hits reflect a musical landscape in constant evolution, showcasing the 90s spirit of experimentation and pushing creative limits. From anthems of empowerment to introspective ballads, 1993 had it all.

1. WHOOMP! (THERE IT IS) by Tag Team
2. CAN’T HELP FALLING IN LOVE by UB40
3. FREAK ME by Silk
4. NUTHIN’ BUT A ‘G’ THANG by Dr. Dre
5. I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU by Whitney Houston
6. WEAK by SWV
7. DON’T WALK AWAY by Jade
8. THAT’S THE WAY LOVE GOES by Janet Jackson
9. INFORMER by Snow
10. DREAMLOVER by Mariah Carey
11. KNOCKIN’ DA BOOTS by H-Town
12. LATELY by Jodeci
13. IF I EVER FALL IN LOVE by Shai
14. A WHOLE NEW WORLD by Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle
15. SHOW ME LOVE by Robin S.
16. IF by Janet Jackson
17. RIGHT HERE (HUMAN NATURE REMIX) by SWV
18. I’M SO INTO YOU by SWV
19. DITTY by Paperboy
20. MR. WENDAL by Arrested Development
21. LOVE IS by Vanessa Williams and Brian McKnight
22. LOOKING THROUGH PATIENT EYES by P.M. Dawn
23. SAVING FOREVER FOR YOU by Shanice
24. IN THE STILL OF THE NITE by Boyz II Men
25. THE RIVER OF DREAMS by Billy Joel
26. I HAVE NOTHING by Whitney Houston
27. ORDINARY WORLD by Duran Duran
28. RUMP SHAKER by Wreckx-n-Effect
29. RUNAWAY TRAIN by Soul Asylum
30. TWO PRINCES by Spin Doctors
31. HIP HOP HOORAY by Naughty by Nature
32. I’M EVERY WOMAN by Whitney Houston
33. RHYTHM IS A DANCER by Snap!
34. HAVE I TOLD YOU LATELY by Rod Stewart
35. I’LL NEVER GET OVER YOU (GETTING OVER ME) by Exposé
36. I’M GONNA BE (500 MILES) by The Proclaimers
37. DAZZEY DUKS by Duice
38. IF I HAD NO LOOT by Tony! Toni! Toné!
39. COMFORTER by Shai
40. BABY I’M YOURS by Shai
41. 7 by Prince and The New Power Generation
42. GOOD ENOUGH by Bobby Brown
43. I’D DIE WITHOUT YOU by P.M. Dawn
44. COME UNDONE by Duran Duran
45. ANOTHER SAD LOVE SONG by Toni Braxton
46. SLAM by Onyx
47. I DON’T WANNA FIGHT by Tina Turner
48. HERE WE GO AGAIN! by Portrait
49. WILL YOU BE THERE by Michael Jackson
50. WHOOT, THERE IT IS by 95 South
51. BED OF ROSES by Bon Jovi
52. DEEPER AND DEEPER by Madonna
53. DRE DAY by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Doggy Dogg
54. I’D DO ANYTHING FOR LOVE (BUT I WON’T DO THAT) by Meat Loaf
55. ONE LAST CRY by Brian McKnight
56. WHAT’S UP? by 4 Non Blondes
57. REAL LOVE by Mary J. Blige
58. CAT’S IN THE CRADLE by Ugly Kid Joe
59. I GET AROUND by 2Pac
60. CRYIN’ by Aerosmith
61. HEY MR. D.J. by Zhané
62. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FRIENDS by TLC
63. JUST KICKIN’ IT by Xscape
64. ALL THAT SHE WANTS by Ace of Base
65. WHEN SHE CRIES by Restless Heart
66. BAD BOYS by Inner Circle
67. I GOT A MAN by Positive K
68. DO YOU BELIEVE IN US by Jon Secada
69. THAT’S WHAT LOVE CAN DO by Boy Krazy
70. TO LOVE SOMEBODY by Michael Bolton
71. AGAIN by Janet Jackson
72. ANGEL by Jon Secada
73. SWEAT (A LA LA LA LA LONG) by Inner Circle
74. IT WAS A GOOD DAY by Ice Cube
75. FAITHFUL by Go West
76. TWO STEPS BEHIND by Def Leppard
77. REBIRTH OF SLICK (COOL LIKE DAT) by Digable Planets
78. RAIN by Madonna
79. ANNIVERSARY by Tony! Toni! Toné!
80. WHAT IS LOVE by Haddaway
81. INSANE IN THE BRAIN by Cypress Hill
82. HOW DO YOU TALK TO AN ANGEL by The Heights
83. MORE AND MORE by Captain Hollywood Project
84. BOOM! SHAKE THE ROOM by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
85. THE RIGHT KIND OF LOVE by Jeremy Jordan
86. LOVE IS ON THE WAY by Saigon Kick
87. GIVE IT UP, TURN IT LOOSE by En Vogue
88. FOREVER IN LOVE by Kenny G
89. GET AWAY by Bobby Brown
90. THREE LITTLE PIGS by Green Jellÿ
91. LIVIN’ ON THE EDGE by Aerosmith
92. REASON TO BELIEVE by Rod Stewart
93. WHO IS IT by Michael Jackson
94. NOTHIN’ MY LOVE CAN’T FIX by Joey Lawrence
95. ALRIGHT by Kris Kross
96. SHOOP (#5*) by Salt N’ Pepa
97. WALKING ON BROKEN GLASS by Annie Lennox
98. LITTLE MISS CAN’T BE WRONG by Spin Doctors
99. CONNECTED by Stereo MC’s
100. LAYLA by Eric Clapton

1994: Pop Culture and Chart-Toppers Define the Mid-90s

1994 was a year where pop culture and music charts became deeply intertwined. Soundtracks dominated, ballads soared, and hip-hop’s influence permeated the mainstream. The best songs of 1994 captured a generation’s mood, reflecting both introspective moments and celebratory anthems, cementing the decade’s diverse appeal.

1. THE SIGN by Ace of Base
2. I SWEAR by All-4-One
3. THE POWER OF LOVE by Céline Dion
4. STAY (I MISSED YOU) by Lisa Loeb and Nine Stories
5. DON’T TURN AROUND by Ace of Base
6. BREATHE AGAIN by Toni Braxton
7. WILD NIGHT by John Mellencamp featuring Me’shell Ndegeocello
8. I’LL REMEMBER by Madonna
9. HERO by Mariah Carey
10. YOU MEAN THE WORLD TO ME by Toni Braxton
11. BUMP N’ GRIND by R. Kelly
12. I’LL MAKE LOVE TO YOU by Boyz II Men
13. ALL FOR LOVE by Bryan Adams, Rod Stewart and Sting
14. THE MOST BEAUTIFUL GIRL IN THE WORLD by Prince
15. CAN YOU FEEL THE LOVE TONIGHT by Elton John
16. WITHOUT YOU / NEVER FORGET YOU by Mariah Carey
17. WHATTA MAN by Salt-n-Pepa and En Vogue
18. BABY, I LOVE YOUR WAY by Big Mountain
19. IF YOU GO by Jon Secada
20. WHEN CAN I SEE YOU by Babyface
21. ALL THAT SHE WANTS by Ace of Base
22. ANY TIME, ANY PLACE by Janet Jackson
23. BACK & FORTH by Aaliyah
24. FANTASTIC VOYAGE by Coolio
25. REGULATE by Warren G featuring Nate Dogg
26. NOW AND FOREVER by Richard Marx
27. SHINE by Collective Soul
28. SO MUCH IN LOVE by All-4-One
29. PLEASE FORGIVE ME by Bryan Adams
30. RETURN TO INNOCENCE by Enigma
31. ALL I WANNA DO by Sheryl Crow
32. STROKE YOU UP by Changing Faces
33. AGAIN by Janet Jackson
34. BECAUSE THE NIGHT by 10,000 Maniacs
35. FUNKDAFIED by Da Brat
36. MMM MMM MMM MMM by Crash Test Dummies
37. SHOOP by Salt-n-Pepa
38. SAID I LOVED YOU…BUT I LIED by Michael Bolton
39. 100% PURE LOVE by Crystal Waters
40. I’M READY by Tevin Campbell
41. NEVER LIE by Immature
42. CAN WE TALK by Tevin Campbell
43. CANTALOOP (FLIP FANTASIA) by Us3
44. BECAUSE OF LOVE by Janet Jackson
45. ENDLESS LOVE by Luther Vandross and Mariah Carey
46. ANYTIME YOU NEED A FRIEND by Mariah Carey
47. LINGER by The Cranberries
48. GIN AND JUICE by Snoop Doggy Dogg
49. THIS D.J. by Warren G
50. TOOTSEE ROLL by 69 Boyz
51. (AT YOUR BEST) YOU ARE LOVE by Aaliyah
52. STREETS OF PHILADELPHIA by Bruce Springsteen
53. ANOTHER NIGHT by Real McCoy
54. WHOOMP! (THERE IT IS) by Tag Team
55. GETTO JAM by Domino
56. CRY FOR YOU by Jodeci
57. UNDERSTANDING by Xscape
58. I MISS YOU by Aaron Hall
59. YOUR BODY’S CALLIN’ by R. Kelly
60. GANGSTA LEAN by DRS
61. LOSER by Beck
62. SECRET by Madonna
63. I’D DO ANYTHING FOR LOVE (BUT I WONT DO THAT) by Meat Loaf
64. FLAVA IN YA EAR by Craig Mack
65. NEVER KEEPING SECRETS by Babyface
66. COME TO MY WINDOW by Melissa Etheridge
67. ROCK AND ROLL DREAMS COME THROUGH by Meat Loaf
68. CRAZY by Aerosmith
69. ANYTHING by SWV
70. KEEP YA HEAD UP by 2Pac
71. DECEMBER, 1963 (OH, WHAT A NIGHT) by The Four Seasons
72. ALWAYS by Bon Jovi
73. GROOVE THANG by Zhané
74. I WANNA BE DOWN by Brandy
75. HERE COMES THE HOTSTEPPER by Ini Kamoze
76. WHAT’S MY NAME? by Snoop Doggy Dogg
77. JUST KICKIN’ IT by Xscape
78. MR. VAIN by Culture Beat
79. PRAYER FOR THE DYING by Seal
80. BEAUTIFUL IN MY EYES by Joshua Kadison
81. ALWAYS by Erasure
82. MARY JANE’S LAST DANCE by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
83. I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW by Jimmy Cliff
84. I’M THE ONLY ONE by Melissa Etheridge
85. DON’T TAKE THE GIRL by Tim McGraw
86. AMAZING by Aerosmith
87. GOT ME WAITING by Heavy D & the Boyz
88. FAR BEHIND by Candlebox
89. STAY by Eternal
90. INDIAN OUTLAW by Tim McGraw
91. LUCKY ONE by Amy Grant
92. WHAT IS LOVE by Haddaway
93. TURN THE BEAT AROUND by Gloria Estefan
94. I’LL STAND BY YOU by Pretenders
95. ALWAYS IN MY HEART by Tevin Campbell
96. THE WAY SHE LOVES ME by Richard Marx
97. I’LL TAKE YOU THERE by General Public
98. WHAT’S THE FREQUENCY, KENNETH? by R.E.M.
99. YOU WANT THIS/70S LOVE GROOVE by Janet Jackson
100. CIRCLE OF LIFE by Elton John

1995: Mid-Decade Musical Revolution

1995 marked a turning point, with R&B and hip-hop solidifying their dominance and pop music evolving to incorporate these influences. Grunge paved the way for alternative sounds, and female artists took center stage. The top songs of 1995 mirrored a musical landscape in flux, innovative and deeply impactful.

1. CREEP by TLC
2. TAKE A BOW by Madonna
3. WATERFALLS by TLC
4. ANOTHER NIGHT by Real McCoy
5. I CAN LOVE YOU LIKE THAT by All-4-One
6. DON’T TAKE IT PERSONAL (JUST ONE OF DEM DAYS) by Monica
7. RUN-AROUND by Blues Traveler
8. ON BENDED KNEE by Boyz II Men
9. KISS FROM A ROSE by Seal
10. FREAK LIKE ME by Adina Howard
11. I KNOW by Dionne Farris
12. WATER RUNS DRY by Boyz II Men
13. YOU GOTTA BE by Des’ree
14. THIS IS HOW WE DO IT by Montell Jordan
15. CANDY RAIN by Soul for Real
16. HOLD MY HAND by Hootie & the Blowfish
17. ALWAYS by Bon Jovi
18. BOOMBASTIC by Shaggy
19. HAVE YOU EVER REALLY LOVED A WOMAN? by Bryan Adams
20. GANGSTA’S PARADISE by Coolio featuring L.V.
21. RED LIGHT SPECIAL by TLC
22. TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE HEART by Nicki French
23. STRONG ENOUGH by Sheryl Crow
24. ONE MORE CHANCE by The Notorious B.I.G.
25. ONLY WANNA BE WITH YOU by Hootie & the Blowfish
26. LET HER CRY by Hootie & the Blowfish
27. I BELIEVE by Blessid Union of Souls
28. SUKIYAKI by 4 P.M.
29. YOU ARE NOT ALONE by Michael Jackson
30. RUN AWAY by Real McCoy
31. BIG POPPA / WARNING by The Notorious B.I.G.
32. BEFORE I LET YOU GO by Blackstreet
33. BABY by Brandy
34. IF YOU LOVE ME by Brownstone
35. HERE COMES THE HOTSTEPPER by Ini Kamoze
36. RUNAWAY by Janet Jackson
37. I’M THE ONLY ONE by Melissa Etheridge
38. COLORS OF THE WIND by Vanessa Williams
39. SOMEONE TO LOVE by Jon B. featuring Babyface
40. I GOT 5 ON IT by Luniz
41. IN THE HOUSE OF STONE AND LIGHT by Martin Page
42. FANTASY by Mariah Carey
43. AS I LAY ME DOWN by Sophie B. Hawkins
44. HE’S MINE by Mokenstef
45. DEAR MAMA by 2Pac
46. I WANNA BE DOWN by Brandy
47. EVERY LITTLE THING I DO by Soul for Real
48. KEEP THEIR HEADS RINGIN’ by Dr. Dre
49. DECEMBER by Collective Soul
50. I’LL MAKE LOVE TO YOU by Boyz II Men
51. SHY GUY by Diana King
52. I’LL BE THERE FOR YOU/YOU’RE ALL I NEED TO GET BY by Method Man featuring Mary J. Blige
53. THE RHYTHM OF THE NIGHT by Corona
54. YOU WANT THIS / 70’S LOVE GROOVE by Janet Jackson
55. ROLL TO ME by Del Amitri
56. FREEK’N YOU by Jodeci
57. BELIEVE by Elton John
58. SCREAM by Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson
59. HOLD ON by Jamie Walters
60. TOOTSEE ROLL by 69 Boyz
61. CARNIVAL by Natalie Merchant
62. YOU DON’T KNOW HOW IT FEELS by Tom Petty
63. BACK FOR GOOD by Take That
64. BROKENHEARTED by Brandy featuring Wanya Morris
65. TELL ME by Groove Theory
66. IF I WANTED TO / LIKE THE WAY I DO by Melissa Etheridge
67. ALL I WANNA DO by Sheryl Crow
68. SECRET by Madonna
69. THIS LIL’ GAME WE PLAY by Subway featuring 702
70. THE SWEETEST DAYS by Vanessa Williams
71. SHORT DICK MAN by 20 Fingers featuring Gillette
72. EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK by Jade
73. THIS AIN’T A LOVE SONG by Bon Jovi
74. CAN’T YOU SEE by Total featuring The Notorious B.I.G.
75. I WISH by Skee-Lo
76. CONSTANTLY by Immature
77. TURN THE BEAT AROUND by Gloria Estefan
78. HOLD ME, THRILL ME, KISS ME, KILL ME by U2
79. PLAYER’S ANTHEM by Junior M.A.F.I.A. featuring The Notorious B.I.G.
80. NAME by Goo Goo Dolls
81. I’LL STAND BY YOU by The Pretenders
82. WHO CAN I RUN TO by Xscape
83. 100% PURE LOVE by Crystal Waters
84. I’LL BE THERE FOR YOU/THIS HOUSE IS NOT A HOME by the Rembrandts
85. 1ST OF THA MONTH by Bone Thugs-n-Harmony
86. ASK OF YOU by Raphael Saadiq
87. FEEL ME FLOW by Naughty by Nature
88. COME AND GET YOUR LOVE by Real McCoy
89. PRACTICE (WHAT YOU PREACH) by Barry White
90. MISERY by Soul Asylum
91. DO YOU SLEEP? by Lisa Loeb & Nine Stories
92. NO MORE I LOVE YOU’S by Annie Lennox
93. I’D LIE FOR YOU (AND THAT’S THE TRUTH) by Meat Loaf
94. THANK YOU by Boyz II Men
95. HOW HIGH by Redman/Method Man
96. BANG AND BLAME by R.E.M.
97. YOU REMIND ME OF SOMETHING by R. Kelly
98. DECEMBER, 1963 (OH, WHAT A NIGHT) by The Four Seasons
99. COTTON EYE JOE by Rednex
100. SUGAR HILL by AZ

1996: The Global Pop Phenomenon Takes Hold

1996 saw the rise of global pop sensations and the continued evolution of R&B and hip-hop. Female voices dominated the charts, and international sounds began to permeate mainstream music. The top songs of 1996 showcased a world embracing musical diversity and catchy, unforgettable melodies.

1. NOBODY KNOWS by The Tony Rich Project
2. MACARENA (BAYSIDE BOYS MIX) by Los del Río
3. BECAUSE YOU LOVED ME by Celine Dion
4. ONE SWEET DAY by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men
5. YOU’RE MAKIN’ ME HIGH / LET IT FLOW by Toni Braxton
6. GIVE ME ONE REASON by Tracy Chapman
7. MISSING by Everything but the Girl
8. ALWAYS BE MY BABY by Mariah Carey
9. TWISTED by Keith Sweat
10. IRONIC by Alanis Morissette
11. C’MON N’ RIDE IT (THE TRAIN) by Quad City DJ’s
12. FOLLOW YOU DOWN / TIL I HEAR IT FROM YOU by Gin Blossoms
13. SITTIN’ UP IN MY ROOM by Brandy
14. CHANGE THE WORLD by Eric Clapton
15. I LOVE YOU ALWAYS FOREVER by Donna Lewis
16. NAME by Goo Goo Dolls
17. EXHALE (SHOOP SHOOP) by Whitney Houston
18. HOW DO U WANT IT / CALIFORNIA LOVE by 2Pac featuring K-Ci & JoJo / featuring Dr. Dre
19. ONE OF US by Joan Osborne
20. THA CROSSROADS by Bone Thugs-n-Harmony
21. INSENSITIVE by Jann Arden
22. IT’S ALL COMING BACK TO ME NOW by Celine Dion
23. HEY LOVER by LL Cool J
24. BE MY LOVER by La Bouche
25. YOU LEARN / YOU OUGHTA KNOW by Alanis Morissette
26. LOUNGIN by LL Cool J
27. WHO WILL SAVE YOUR SOUL by Jewel
28. I CAN’T SLEEP BABY (IF I) by R. Kelly
29. WHERE DO YOU GO by No Mercy
30. DOWN LOW (NOBODY HAS TO KNOW) by R. Kelly featuring The Isley Brothers
31. NOT GON’ CRY by Mary J. Blige
32. YOU’RE THE ONE by SWV
33. BEFORE YOU WALK OUT OF MY LIFE / LIKE THIS AND LIKE THAT by Monica
34. BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S by Deep Blue Something
35. GANGSTA’S PARADISE by Coolio featuring L.V.
36. ANYTHING by 3T
37. COUNTING BLUE CARS by Dishwalla
38. ONLY YOU by 112 featuring The Notorious B.I.G. and Mase
39. SWEET DREAMS by La Bouche
40. YOU’LL SEE by Madonna
41. 1979 by The Smashing Pumpkins
42. WHY I LOVE YOU SO MUCH / AIN’T NOBODY by Monica
43. DIGGIN’ ON YOU by TLC
44. 1, 2, 3, 4 (SUMPIN’ NEW) by Coolio
45. FANTASY by Mariah Carey
46. COUNT ON ME by Whitney Houston featuring CeCe Winans
47. TIME by Hootie & the Blowfish
48. WONDER by Natalie Merchant
49. KISSIN’ YOU by Total
50. WONDERWALL by Oasis
51. LAST NIGHT by Az Yet
52. TELL ME by Groove Theory
53. DOIN’ IT by LL Cool J
54. ELEVATORS (ME & YOU) by Outkast
55. ALL THE THINGS (YOUR MAN WON’T DO) by Joe
56. IF YOUR GIRL ONLY KNEW by Aaliyah
57. FASTLOVE by George Michael
58. WOO HAH!! GOT YOU ALL IN CHECK by Busta Rhymes
59. MOUTH by Merril Bainbridge
60. THE WORLD I KNOW by Collective Soul
61. TONITE’S THA NIGHT by Kris Kross
62. KEY WEST INTERMEZZO (I SAW YOU FIRST) by John Mellencamp
63. NO DIGGITY by Blackstreet featuring Dr. Dre
64. RUNAWAY by Janet Jackson
65. NOBODY by Keith Sweat featuring Athena Cage
66. LADY by D’Angelo
67. OLD MAN AND ME (WHEN I GET TO HEAVEN) by Hootie & the Blowfish
68. IF IT MAKES YOU HAPPY by Sheryl Crow
69. THIS IS FOR THE LOVER IN YOU by Babyface featuring LL Cool J and Shalamar
70. AS I LAY ME DOWN by Sophie B. Hawkins
71. CLOSER TO FREE by BoDeans
72. THE EARTH, THE SUN, THE RAIN by Color Me Badd
73. THEME FROM MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE by Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen
74. HIT ME OFF by New Edition
75. BACK FOR GOOD by Take That
76. YOU REMIND ME OF SOMETHING by R. Kelly
77. UN-BREAK MY HEART by Toni Braxton
78. CHILDREN by Robert Miles
79. TOUCH ME, TEASE ME by Case featuring Foxy Brown
80. PONY by Ginuwine
81. I GOT ID / LONG ROAD by Pearl Jam
82. BEAUTIFUL LIFE by Ace of Base
83. I WANT TO COME OVER by Melissa Etheridge
84. WHEN YOU LOVE A WOMAN by Journey
85. KEEP ON, KEEPIN’ ON by MC Lyte featuring Xscape
86. WHO DO U LOVE by Deborah Cox
87. UNTIL IT SLEEPS by Metallica
88. ONLY WANNA BE WITH YOU by Hootie & the Blowfish
89. JESUS TO A CHILD by George Michael
90. SOON AS I GET HOME by Faith Evans
91. SET U FREE by Planet Soul
92. KISS FROM A ROSE by Seal
93. FREE AS A BIRD by the Beatles
94. LET’S MAKE A NIGHT TO REMEMBER by Bryan Adams
95. PO PIMP by Do or Die featuring Twista
96. ROLL TO ME by Del Amitri
97. JEALOUSY by Natalie Merchant
98. I’M STILL IN LOVE WITH YOU by New Edition
99. HOOK by Blues Traveler
100. HAY by Crucial Conflict

1997: Girl Power and the Rise of Pop Groups

1997 was synonymous with the explosion of pop groups and the powerful message of “girl power.” Teen pop began its ascent, and R&B continued to innovate. The top songs of 1997 were catchy, energetic, and culturally significant, defining the sound of the late 90s and hinting at the pop dominance to come.

1. FOOLISH GAMES / “YOU WERE MEANT FOR ME” by Jewel
2. UN-BREAK MY HEART by Toni Braxton
3. RETURN OF THE MACK by Mark Morrison
4. I’LL BE MISSING YOU by Puff Daddy featuring Faith Evans and 112
5. I BELIEVE I CAN FLY by R. Kelly
6. CAN’T NOBODY HOLD ME DOWN by Puff Daddy featuring Mase
7. QUIT PLAYING GAMES (WITH MY HEART) by Backstreet Boys
8. DON’T LET GO (LOVE) by En Vogue
9. FOR YOU I WILL by Monica
10. SEMI-CHARMED LIFE by Third Eye Blind
11. HARD TO SAY I’M SORRY by Az Yet featuring Peter Cetera
12. WANNABE by Spice Girls
13. HOW DO I LIVE by LeAnn Rimes
14. BARELY BREATHING by Duncan Sheik
15. MO MONEY MO PROBLEMS by The Notorious B.I.G. featuring Puff Daddy and Mase
16. I WANT YOU by Savage Garden
17. BITCH by Meredith Brooks
18. NOBODY by Keith Sweat
19. MMMBOP by Hanson
20. THE FRESHMEN by The Verve Pipe
21. EVERY TIME I CLOSE MY EYES by Babyface
22. DO YOU KNOW (WHAT IT TAKES) by Robyn
23. YOU MAKE ME WANNA… by Usher
24. G.H.E.T.T.O.U.T. by Changing Faces
25. SAY YOU’LL BE THERE by Spice Girls
26. ALL FOR YOU by Sister Hazel
27. NO DIGGITY by Blackstreet featuring Dr. Dre
28. IN MY BED by Dru Hill
29. SUNNY CAME HOME by Shawn Colvin
30. 2 BECOME 1 by Spice Girls
31. I BELONG TO YOU (EVERY TIME I SEE YOUR FACE) by Rome
32. I BELIEVE IN YOU AND ME by Whitney Houston
33. HYPNOTIZE by The Notorious B.I.G.
34. DA’ DIP by Freak Nasty
35. HONEY by Mariah Carey
36. WHERE HAVE ALL THE COWBOYS GONE? by Paula Cole
37. 4 SEASONS OF LONELINESS by Boyz II Men
38. I’M STILL IN LOVE WITH YOU by New Edition
39. IT’S YOUR LOVE by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill
40. MOUTH by Merril Bainbridge
41. CUPID by 112
42. ALL CRIED OUT by Allure featuring 112
43. LOOK INTO MY EYES by Bone Thugs-n-Harmony
44. INVISIBLE MAN by 98 Degrees
45. SOMETHING ABOUT THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT / “CANDLE IN THE WIND 1997” by Elton John
46. OOH AAH… JUST A LITTLE BIT by Gina G
47. NOT TONIGHT by Lil’ Kim featuring Da Brat, Left Eye, Missy Elliott and Angie Martinez
48. WHERE DO YOU GO by No Mercy
49. IT’S ALL COMING BACK TO ME NOW by Celine Dion
50. BUILDING A MYSTERY by Sarah McLachlan
51. NEVER MAKE A PROMISE by Dru Hill
52. IF IT MAKES YOU HAPPY by Sheryl Crow
53. GET IT TOGETHER by 702
54. WHEN YOU LOVE A WOMAN by Journey
55. ALL BY MYSELF by Celine Dion
56. MY LOVE IS THE SHHH! by Somethin’ for the People featuring Trina & Tamara
57. COLD ROCK A PARTY by MC Lyte
58. I FINALLY FOUND SOMEONE by Barbra Streisand and Bryan Adams
59. I LOVE YOU ALWAYS FOREVER by Donna Lewis
60. I’LL BE by Foxy Brown featuring Jay-Z
61. PONY by Ginuwine
62. UP JUMPS DA BOOGIE by Timbaland & Magoo featuring Missy Elliott and Aaliyah
63. THE ONE I GAVE MY HEART TO by Aaliyah
64. MY BABY DADDY by B-Rock and the Bizz
65. EVERYDAY IS A WINDING ROAD by Sheryl Crow
66. LAST NIGHT by Az Yet
67. WHAT ABOUT US by Total
68. GOTHAM CITY by R. Kelly
69. C U WHEN U GET THERE by Coolio featuring 40 Thevz
70. TUBTHUMPING by Chumbawamba
71. FLY LIKE AN EAGLE by Seal
72. BIG DADDY by Heavy D
73. NO TIME by Lil’ Kim featuring Puff Daddy
74. SMILE by Scarface featuring 2Pac and Johnny P.
75. ON & ON by Erykah Badu
76. I DON’T WANT TO / “I LOVE ME SOME HIM” by Toni Braxton
77. DON’T CRY FOR ME ARGENTINA by Madonna
78. BARBIE GIRL by Aqua
79. YOUR WOMAN by White Town
80. MACARENA (BAYSIDE BOYS MIX) by Los del Río
81. YOU SHOULD BE MINE (DON’T WASTE YOUR TIME) by Brian McKnight featuring Mase
82. CHANGE THE WORLD by Eric Clapton
83. SOMEONE by SWV and Puff Daddy
84. BUTTA LOVE by Next
85. TWISTED by Keith Sweat
86. WHAT KIND OF MAN WOULD I BE by Mint Condition
87. SECRET GARDEN by Bruce Springsteen
88. CRIMINAL by Fiona Apple
89. I MISS MY HOMIES by Master P featuring Pimp C & the Shocker
90. MY BODY by LSG
91. I DON’T WANT TO WAIT by Paula Cole
92. EVERYTHING by Mary J. Blige
93. WHAT’S ON TONIGHT by Montell Jordan
94. STEP BY STEP by Whitney Houston
95. YOU’RE MAKIN’ ME HIGH / “LET IT FLOW” by Toni Braxton
96. THIS IS YOUR NIGHT by Amber
97. FEELS SO GOOD by Mase
98. THIS IS FOR THE LOVER IN YOU by Babyface featuring LL Cool J and Shalamar
99. DON’T WANNA BE A PLAYER by Joe
100. I SHOT THE SHERIFF by Warren G

1998: Late 90s Pop and R&B Take Center Stage

1998 was a year dominated by the burgeoning sounds of late 90s pop and R&B. Boy bands and female solo artists ruled the charts, while hip-hop and R&B continued to evolve with smoother, more melodic sounds. The top songs of 1998 were polished, catchy, and perfectly captured the youthful energy of the era.

1. TRULY MADLY DEEPLY by Savage Garden
2. TOO CLOSE by Next
3. YOU’RE STILL THE ONE by Shania Twain
4. THE BOY IS MINE by Brandy and Monica
5. ALL MY LIFE by K-Ci & JoJo
6. TOGETHER AGAIN by Janet
7. HOW DO I LIVE by LeAnn Rimes
8. MY WAY by Usher
9. ADIA / ANGEL by Sarah McLachlan
10. NO, NO, NO by Destiny’s Child
11. NICE AND SLOW by Usher
12. CRUSH by Jennifer Paige
13. HOW’S IT GOING TO BE by Third Eye Blind
14. THE FIRST NIGHT by Monica
15. GETTIN’ JIGGY WIT IT by Will Smith
16. I DON’T WANT TO WAIT by Paula Cole
17. THIS KISS by Faith Hill
18. EVERYBODY (BACKSTREET’S BACK) by Backstreet Boys
19. MY ALL by Mariah Carey
20. NEVER EVER by All Saints
21. SEX AND CANDY by Marcy Playground
22. WHEN THE LIGHTS GO OUT by Five
23. BEEN AROUND THE WORLD / IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BENJAMINS by Puff Daddy featuring Lil’ Kim, The Lox and The Notorious B.I.G.
24. I DON’T WANT TO MISS A THING by Aerosmith
25. BODY BUMPIN’ (YIPPIE-YI-YO) by Public Announcement
26. YOU MAKE ME WANNA by Usher
27. MAKE IT HOT by Nicole featuring Missy Elliott and Mocha
28. FROZEN by Madonna
29. LET’S RIDE by Montell Jordan featuring Master P and Silkk the Shocker
30. SOMETHING ABOUT THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT / CANDLE IN THE WIND 1997 by Elton John
31. MY HEART WILL GO ON by Celine Dion
32. I DON’T EVER WANT TO SEE YOU AGAIN by Uncle Sam
33. COME WITH ME by Puff Daddy featuring Jimmy Page
34. I WANT YOU BACK by ‘N Sync
35. A SONG FOR MAMA by Boyz II Men
36. GONE TILL NOVEMBER by Wyclef Jean
37. SAY IT by Voices of Theory
38. WHAT YOU WANT by Mase featuring Total
39. DAYDREAMIN’ by Tatyana Ali
40. SHOW ME LOVE by Robyn
41. TUBTHUMPING by Chumbawamba
42. ONE WEEK by Barenaked Ladies
43. TIME AFTER TIME by INOJ
44. MY BODY by LSG
45. I’LL BE by Edwin McCain
46. I GET LONELY by Janet Jackson featuring Blackstreet
47. I STILL LOVE YOU by Next
48. THE ARMS OF THE ONE WHO LOVES YOU by Xscape
49. DEJA VU (UPTOWN BABY) by Lord Tariq and Peter Gunz
50. LATELY by Divine
51. LOOKIN’ AT ME by Mase featuring Puff Daddy
52. ARE U STILL DOWN / THEY DON’T KNOW by Jon B.
53. HOW DEEP IS YOUR LOVE by Dru Hill featuring Redman
54. MAKE ‘EM SAY UHH! by Master P featuring Fiend, Silkk the Shocker, Mia X and Mystikal
55. FEEL SO GOOD by Mase featuring Kelly Price
56. GHETTO SUPASTAR (THAT IS WHAT YOU ARE) by Pras Michel featuring Ol’ Dirty Bastard and Mýa
57. FRIEND OF MINE by Kelly Price featuring R. Kelly and Ron Isley
58. IT’S ALL ABOUT ME by Mýa and Sisqo
59. CRUEL SUMMER by Ace of Base
60. BECAUSE OF YOU by 98 Degrees
61. TOUCH IT by Monifah
62. LOOKING THROUGH YOUR EYES by LeAnn Rimes
63. TURN IT UP (REMIX)/FIRE IT UP by Busta Rhymes
64. ROMEO AND JULIET by Sylk-E. Fyne featuring Chill
65. MY LOVE IS THE SHHH! by Somethin’ for the People featuring Trina & Tamara
66. KISS THE RAIN by Billie Myers
67. WE’RE NOT MAKING LOVE NO MORE by Dru Hill
68. RAY OF LIGHT by Madonna
69. I GOT THE HOOK UP by Master P featuring Sons of Funk
70. WESTSIDE by TQ
71. SWING MY WAY by K. P. & Envyi
72. I WILL COME TO YOU by Hanson
73. I DO by Lisa Loeb
74. ARE YOU JIMMY RAY? by Jimmy Ray
75. THINKIN’ BOUT IT by Gerald Levert
76. THE POWER OF GOOD-BYE by Madonna
77. TOO MUCH by Spice Girls
78. MY LITTLE SECRET by Xscape
79. ALL CRIED OUT by Allure featuring 112
80. COME AND GET WITH ME by Keith Sweat Featuring Snoop Dogg
81. NOBODY’S SUPPOSED TO BE HERE by Deborah Cox
82. DANGEROUS by Busta Rhymes
83. SEMI-CHARMED LIFE by Third Eye Blind
84. SPICE UP YOUR LIFE by Spice Girls
85. STILL NOT A PLAYER by Big Pun featuring Joe
86. THE ONE I GAVE MY HEART TO by Aaliyah
87. VICTORY by Puff Daddy featuring The Notorious B.I.G. and Busta Rhymes
88. STOP by Spice Girls
89. MONEY, POWER & RESPECT by The LOX featuring DMX and Lil’ Kim
90. DOO WOP (THAT THING) by Lauryn Hill
91. BITTER SWEET SYMPHONY by The Verve
92. BUTTA LOVE by Next
93. I CAN DO THAT by Montell Jordan
94. FOOLISH GAMES / YOU WERE MEANT FOR ME by Jewel
95. STILL A G THANG by Snoop Dogg
96. QUIT PLAYING GAMES (WITH MY HEART) by Backstreet Boys
97. FATHER by LL Cool J
98. NOBODY DOES IT BETTER by Nate Dogg Featuring Warren G
99. THE MUMMERS’ DANCE by Loreena McKennitt
100. JUST THE TWO OF US by Will Smith

1999: The Cusp of a New Millennium and Musical Evolution

1999 marked the end of an era and the dawn of a new millennium. Teen pop reached its zenith, Latin pop exploded onto the scene, and R&B and hip-hop continued to dominate and diversify. The top songs of 1999 were a mix of celebratory anthems, heartfelt ballads, and genre-bending hits, perfectly encapsulating the energy and anticipation of a new century.

1. WHERE MY GIRLS AT? by 702
2. SLIDE by Goo Goo Dolls
3. NO SCRUBS by TLC
4. KISS ME by Sixpence None the Richer
5. …BABY ONE MORE TIME by Britney Spears
6. BELIEVE by Cher
7. EVERY MORNING by Sugar Ray
8. I WANT IT THAT WAY by Backstreet Boys
9. GENIE IN A BOTTLE by Christina Aguilera
10. ALL STAR by Smash Mouth
11. ANGEL OF MINE by Monica
12. HEARTBREAK HOTEL by Whitney Houston featuring Faith Evans and Kelly Price
13. IF YOU HAD MY LOVE by Jennifer Lopez
14. NOBODY’S SUPPOSED TO BE HERE by Deborah Cox
15. HAVE YOU EVER? by Brandy
16. ANGEL by Sarah McLachlan
17. LIVIN’ LA VIDA LOCA by Ricky Martin
18. SAVE TONIGHT by Eagle-Eye Cherry
19. I’M YOUR ANGEL by R. Kelly and Celine Dion
20. SMOOTH by Santana featuring Rob Thomas
21. SOMEDAY by Sugar Ray
22. FORTUNATE by Maxwell
23. UNPRETTY by TLC
24. BILLS, BILLS, BILLS by Destiny’s Child
25. LAST KISS by Pearl Jam
26. ALL I HAVE TO GIVE by Backstreet Boys
27. JUMPER by Third Eye Blind
28. LULLABY by Shawn Mullins
29. SCAR TISSUE by Red Hot Chili Peppers
30. MAMBO NO. 5 by Lou Bega
31. BAILAMOS by Enrique Iglesias
32. WILD WILD WEST by Will Smith featuring Dru Hill and Kool Moe Dee
33. THE HARDEST THING by 98 Degrees
34. LATELY by Divine
35. HANDS by Jewel
36. SUMMER GIRLS by LFO
37. IT’S NOT RIGHT BUT IT’S OKAY by Whitney Houston
38. THAT DON’T IMPRESS ME MUCH by Shania Twain
39. WHAT’S IT GONNA BE?! by Busta Rhymes featuring Janet
40. HEARTBREAKER by Mariah Carey featuring Jay-Z
41. FROM THIS MOMENT ON by Shania Twain
42. WHO DAT by JT Money featuring Solé
43. DOO WOP (THAT THING) by Lauryn Hill
44. I STILL BELIEVE by Mariah Carey
45. SWEET LADY by Tyrese
46. 808 by Blaque
47. PLEASE REMEMBER ME by Tim McGraw
48. IF YOU by Silk
49. MY LOVE IS YOUR LOVE by Whitney Houston
50. WHAT IT’S LIKE by Everlast
51. SHE’S SO HIGH by Tal Bachman
52. ANYWHERE by 112 featuring Lil Zane
53. TELL ME IT’S REAL by K-Ci & JoJo
54. I DO (CHERISH YOU) by 98 Degrees
55. SHE’S ALL I EVER HAD by Ricky Martin
56. TRIPPIN’ by Total featuring Missy Elliott
57. BECAUSE OF YOU by 98 Degrees
58. I NEED TO KNOW by Marc Anthony
59. (GOD MUST HAVE SPENT) A LITTLE MORE TIME ON YOU by ‘N Sync
60. FLY AWAY by Lenny Kravitz
61. LOVE LIKE THIS by Faith Evans
62. GIVE IT TO YOU by Jordan Knight
63. STEAL MY SUNSHINE by Len
64. YOU by Jesse Powell
65. MIAMI by Will Smith
66. I WILL REMEMBER YOU by Sarah McLachlan
67. CHANTÉ’S GOT A MAN by Chanté Moore
68. IRIS by Goo Goo Dolls
69. BACK AT ONE by Brian McKnight
70. CAN I GET A… by Jay-Z featuring Amil and Ja Rule
71. HAPPILY EVER AFTER by Case
72. WE CAN’T BE FRIENDS by Deborah Cox & R.L.
73. STAY THE SAME by Joey McIntyre
74. BLACK BALLOON by Goo Goo Dolls
75. JAMBOREE by Naughty by Nature featuring Zhané
76. I DON’T WANT TO MISS A THING by Mark Chesnutt
77. SO ANXIOUS by Ginuwine
78. SATISFY YOU by Puff Daddy featuring R. Kelly
79. BACK THAT AZZ UP by Juvenile featuring Mannie Fresh and Lil Wayne
80. THIS KISS by Faith Hill
81. LOST IN YOU by Garth Brooks as Chris Gaines
82. ALMOST DOESN’T COUNT by Brandy
83. EX-FACTOR by Lauryn Hill
84. SPEND MY LIFE WITH YOU by Eric Benét featuring Tamia
85. ALL NIGHT LONG by Faith Evans featuring Puff Daddy
86. TAKE ME THERE by Blackstreet featuring Mýa, Mase and Blinky Blink
87. TAKING EVERYTHING by Gerald Levert
88. IT AIN’T MY FAULT 1 & 2 by Silkk the Shocker Featuring Mystikal
89. THESE ARE THE TIMES by Dru Hill
90. (YOU DRIVE ME) CRAZY by Britney Spears
91. BACK 2 GOOD by Matchbox 20
92. FADED PICTURES by Case featuring Joe
93. C’EST LA VIE by B*Witched
94. SOMETIMES by Britney Spears
95. MY FAVORITE MISTAKE by Sheryl Crow
96. GET GONE by Ideal
97. GHETTO COWBOY by Mo Thugs
98. THE FIRST NIGHT by Monica
99. MUSIC OF MY HEART by ‘N Sync and Gloria Estefan
100. NO PIGEONS by Sporty Thievz Featuring Mr. Woods

The Enduring Legacy of 90s Music

What was the most popular music in the 1990s?

The 1990s was a melting pot of musical innovation, where pop songs shared the spotlight with the raw energy of grunge, the rhythmic beats of rap, and the soulful melodies of R&B. This decade was defined by iconic artists like Nirvana, Madonna, and Whitney Houston, each contributing to a diverse and vibrant soundscape that continues to resonate today.

The top 100 songs of the 90s represent a rich tapestry of sounds, showcasing the dynamic musical landscape of the decade. These memorable hits not only topped charts but also became cultural touchstones, influencing generations of music lovers. Each track on this list stands as a testament to the varied influences that continue to shape contemporary music.

What was the biggest hit of the 90s?

While pinpointing the “biggest” hit is subjective, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana is often cited as the quintessential anthem of the 90s. Its groundbreaking impact on music and culture symbolized the decade’s shift towards alternative sounds and raw emotional expression. This track is undeniably one of the best 90s songs, representing a pivotal moment in music history.

However, the top 100 songs of the 90s also celebrate massive global hits like “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston, demonstrating the incredible range of musical styles that achieved phenomenal success. These songs not only dominated radio airwaves and sales charts but also left an indelible mark on the music industry, highlighting the depth and breadth of 90s pop songs and beyond.

What song was number 1 in 1990?

The number 1 song in 1990, according to the Nolan Method, was “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips. This track, a standout among 1990 top songs, perfectly encapsulates the year’s blend of pop sensibilities and emerging vocal harmonies. “Hold On,” alongside other 1990 music hits, set the stage for the decade’s diverse musical journey.

Songs from 1990 often bridge the gap between the synth-heavy sounds of the 80s and the eclectic styles that would fully blossom in the 90s. The 1990 songs list is a fascinating mix of enduring classics and early indicators of the musical revolution to come, making it a crucial year in the story of 90s music.

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