The 1990s: a decade where music exploded in every direction. Turn on the radio, and you were instantly bombarded with a thrilling mix of sounds. From the raw energy of grunge to the hard-hitting beats of gangsta rap, the infectious rhythms of dancehall to the resurgence of disco, and the unapologetic voice of riot grrrl punk to the catchy tunes of TRL mall-pop, the 90s music scene was a vibrant tapestry. Electronic music branched into countless subgenres, and the Wu-Tang Clan seemed to drop solo records as frequently as hit singles. No matter your taste, the 90s offered an overwhelming abundance of music.
Trying to capture the essence of such a musically rich decade in a single list feels almost impossible. You could easily compile hundreds of incredible songs from just the summer of ’94 alone. However, these 50 essential tracks aim to highlight the most glorious moments from the 90s music explosion. These are the hits, the hidden gems, the cult classics, the dance floor anthems, the guitar-shredding rock songs, and the karaoke staples that truly represent the era. So, join us as we dive into the sounds of a generation. Here we are now, let us entertain you with our Favorite 90s Songs.
Fuzzy – “Flashlight” (1994)
Emerging seemingly from nowhere and then fading back into obscurity, Fuzzy, a band of quasi-grunge musicians from Boston, gifted us with one truly perfect song. “Flashlight” features a melancholic female vocalist singing almost indecipherable lyrics about a flashlight and navigating through darkness. Largely missed by the mainstream, except for a lucky few who caught it on MTV’s 120 Minutes during a late-night music video dump, this song begs the question: how many other magnificent quasi-grunge tunes are buried on forgotten major-label albums from the post-Nirvana gold rush, waiting to be rediscovered? While few may reach the heights of “Flashlight,” the search for these hidden treasures is a worthwhile endeavor.
Britney Spears – “Sometimes” (1999)
Britney’s second hit single, and arguably her first comeback moment. Skepticism surrounded the longevity of the “…Baby One More Time” sensation, with many wondering if she would last beyond her initial splash. “Sometimes” became the Total Request Live anthem that silenced the doubters, firmly establishing Britney Spears as a pop icon and setting the blueprint for a new generation of pop stars. This song signaled the arrival of a new pop era as the century drew to a close, cementing its place as one of the defining 90s songs.
The Offspring – “Self Esteem” (1994)
Another group of Orange County hardcore enthusiasts achieved mega-platinum success with a catchy tune about masochism. The line, “I may be dumb, but I’m not a dweeb,” remains surprisingly relevant, unless, of course, you happen to be a dumb dweeb, in which case you’re probably the subject of this iconic 90s song. “Self Esteem” perfectly captured the slacker angst of the decade, making it a firm favorite among 90s songs.
Selena – “Fotos y Recuerdos” (1994)
The beloved Tejano queen brilliantly reimagined The Pretenders’ hit “Back on the Chain Gang,” translating it into Spanish. “Fotos y Recuerdos” soared into the Top Five on the Billboard Latin charts the very week of Selena’s tragic passing. This poignant track stands as a testament to her talent and enduring legacy as one of the most influential Latina artists and contributors to 90s songs.
Silver Jews – “Random Rules” (1998)
Imagine a honky-tonk lounge in hell, and “Random Rules” is the song playing on the jukebox as closing time approaches. David Berman’s distinctive, melancholic voice croons his fragmented, barstool- философские observations, creating a uniquely haunting and unforgettable addition to the landscape of 90s songs.
Lil Kim featuring Lil Cease – “Crush on You (Remix)” (1997)
Lil' Kim performing "Crush on You" in 1997, showcasing her iconic style and confident persona.
This track is the quintessential Bad Boy hit. Built around a strangely somber synth loop, with Lil Cease echoing Biggie’s swagger, it’s Lil’ Kim, the Queen Bee herself, who truly shines. Her unshakeable bravado is on full display as she flaunts her extravagant collection of wigs and matching furs. The call and response, “Shall I proceed?” “Yes, indeed!” perfectly encapsulates the confident energy of this 90s song.
Stereolab – “Cybele’s Reverie” (1996)
“Voulez vous coucher avec le revolution?” These European masters of vintage keyboards crafted album after album of rich, politically charged trance-prog music. “Cybele’s Reverie” stands as the pinnacle of their work, a mesmerizing and intellectually stimulating track that exemplifies the experimental side of 90s songs.
Supergrass – “Alright” (1995)
Supergrass band members in a playful and energetic pose, reflecting the youthful spirit of "Alright."
Choosing just one song from the Clueless soundtrack feels almost as challenging as trying to find depth in a Pauly Shore movie. However, “Alright” by Supergrass perfectly encapsulates the youthful exuberance and carefree spirit of the 90s, making it an undeniable inclusion in any list of favorite 90s songs.
Ace of Base – “The Sign” (1994)
The world’s most successful Swedish reggae band achieved global fame with “The Sign,” a mystical hit that seemingly bypassed native English speakers in its creation (“Life is demanding/Without understanding” – indeed). It was, undeniably, a very Swedish reggae kind of decade, and “The Sign” remains one of the most recognizable and beloved 90s songs.
Sophie B. Hawkins – “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” (1992)
Sophie B. Hawkins in a passionate performance, capturing the raw emotion of "Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover."
A bohemian sex priestess belts out a powerful lament about unrequited desire. In Sophie B. Hawkins’ rendition, the word “damn” carries an unprecedented weight of longing and pain. This raw and honest track resonated deeply with audiences, becoming one of the more emotionally charged 90s songs.
Big Pun featuring Joe – “Still Not a Player” (1998)
Uptown, baby! The late, great Bronx MC, Big Pun, joins forces with R&B crooner Joe over a smooth lovers-rock piano melody. Together, they woo “highly intelligent bachelorettes” with a pan-cultural party vibe (“boricua, morena“) and some undeniably smooth, yet suggestive, lyrics. R.I.P., Pun – he claimed he wasn’t a player, but he certainly won over countless fans with this 90s song.
Sebadoh – “Brand New Love” (1992)
Sebadoh performing live, their raw and emotive performance style mirroring the sentiment of "Brand New Love."
Sebadoh, the punk wolf boys, take a significant step towards emotional maturity with “Brand New Love.” This folk-infused, feedback-laden ballad is about opening your guarded heart to new, potentially frightening feelings, and daring to smile back at someone across the room. This vulnerable and relatable track is a standout among 90s songs.
Geto Boys – “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” (1991)
Arguably the most chilling gangsta rap narrative ever recorded. “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” culminates with Willie D’s visceral screams and bloody fists pounding against concrete, all set against a backdrop of a cold jazz-fusion loop. This song is a stark and powerful example of the storytelling prowess within 90s songs, particularly in hip hop.
New Radicals – “You Get What You Give” (1998)
Gregg Alexander of New Radicals performing "You Get What You Give," embodying the song's energetic and rebellious spirit.
The quintessential one-hit wonder, “You Get What You Give” is a gloriously anthemic prom song, complete with a bucket hat, a mall-riot music video, and playful insults directed at Beck, Hanson, Courtney Love, and Marilyn Manson. And then, just as quickly as they arrived, they were gone. Though the New Radicals’ frontman later received an Oscar nomination for Begin Again in 2015, he tragically missed the opportunity to rock his iconic bucket hat on the red carpet. Despite their brief time in the spotlight, this 90s song remains a timeless feel-good anthem.
Portishead – “Glory Box” (1994)
Elegant trip-hop melancholy at its finest. Beth Gibbons’s haunting vocals perfectly convey heartbreak over a timeless, cheeba-infused Isaac Hayes funk sample from the Seventies. This sample was reintroduced to a new generation in 2015 by Alessia Cara, who wasn’t even born when “Glory Box” first captivated listeners. This song is a sophisticated and atmospheric addition to the collection of 90s songs.
Sheryl Crow – “If It Makes You Happy” (1996)
Sheryl Crow performing "If It Makes You Happy," her relaxed and authentic stage presence mirroring the song's vibe.
Sheryl Crow had us all hooked from the opening line about scraping mold off bread—a quintessential 90s image of rock & roll stoner apathy. “If It Makes You Happy” is a laid-back yet insightful track that perfectly encapsulates the slacker generation and their approach to life, making it a defining 90s song.
En Vogue – “Don’t Let Go (Love)” (1996)
The funky divas of En Vogue deliver their steamiest slow jam, exploring the themes of lovemaking, heartbreak, and soul-shaking emotions. The standout moment: “If I could wear your clothes… I’d pretend I was you… and looooose controoool!” This song is a masterclass in vocal harmonies and emotional delivery, solidifying its place as a top pick among 90s songs.
Helium – “XXX” (1994)
Mary Timony of Helium playing guitar, her intense and focused performance embodying the energy of "XXX."
Guitar heroine Mary Timony (later of Wild Flag and Ex Hex) delivers a deceptively sweet ballad with a dark edge. “XXX” warns that unwanted street harassment will be met with deadly consequences, as her guitar becomes a lethal weapon. The song culminates with Timony’s hilariously deadpan kiss-off lines: “My heart is a cab…your love is a fad…and you’re a draaag!” This track showcases the fierce and intelligent songwriting that made 90s songs so compelling.
Foxy Brown featuring Jay Z – “I’ll Be” (1996)
Foxy Brown declares, “I’m 2 live, nasty as I wanna be,” while a young Jay-Z responds, “Don’t shake your sassy ass in front of me.” Jay-Z, fresh on the scene with Reasonable Doubt, uses this hit with his teenage protégé to demonstrate his mastery of the rap game. Few could have predicted his decades-long reign at the top, but “I’ll Be” provided early evidence of his staying power and remains a memorable 90s song.
Underworld – “Born Slippy .Nuxx” (1996)
Underworld performing live, their energetic stage presence mirroring the intensity of "Born Slippy .Nuxx."
A sonic assault of techno sensory overload, “Born Slippy .Nuxx” exploded into mainstream popularity after its inclusion in Trainspotting, with its unforgettable “lager lager lager lager” chant. Judging by its frenetic energy, lager might be one of the few substances not involved in the making of this iconic 90s song.
Sir Mix-A-Lot – “Baby Got Back” (1992)
Butt of course! “Baby Got Back” became a cultural phenomenon. Nearly everyone in the English-speaking world can quote at least a few lines from this unapologetically pro-butt anthem. This track’s playful and body-positive message made it a defining and undeniably fun 90s song.
Fiona Apple – “Paper Bag” (1999)
Fiona Apple performing "Paper Bag," her emotive delivery and piano skills highlighting the song's vulnerability.
“He thought he was a man, but he was just a little boy.” Fiona Apple’s poignant lyric encapsulates the disillusionment and heartbreak of realizing a partner isn’t who you believed them to be. “Paper Bag” is a raw and emotionally resonant track, demonstrating the singer-songwriter depth found in 90s songs.
Weezer – “Pink Triangle” (1996)
Years before “overshare” became a common term (many first encountered it in the Kirsten Dunst film Bring It On), Rivers Cuomo took the concept to new heights with “Pink Triangle.” This love song, a prime example of straight-dude obliviousness, sees Cuomo lamenting his crush on a lesbian. While he may have considered himself on par with Nirvana in his own mind, “Pink Triangle” is a uniquely Weezer-esque contribution to 90s songs.
Daft Punk – “Around the World” (1997)
Daft Punk performing in their iconic helmets, their futuristic image matching the innovative sound of "Around the World."
The French techno robots, Daft Punk, take the Chic “Good Times” bassline on an electronic journey to another dimension with “Around the World.” Their signature filter-house sound launched countless imitators and solidified their place as pioneers of electronic music, and this track is a landmark 90s song.
Natalie Imbruglia – “Torn” (1998)
There’s karaoke, and then there’s “Torn” karaoke. (For karaoke enthusiasts, 1998 remains the golden summer). “Torn” is still an undeniably powerful tear-jerker. However, considering Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia’s list of celebrity exes, it’s safe to assume she’s not exactly lacking shoulders to cry on. Nevertheless, “Torn” remains a karaoke classic and a beloved 90s song.
Harvey Danger – “Flagpole Sitta” (1998)
Harvey Danger performing "Flagpole Sitta," their quirky and relatable stage presence echoing the song's ironic lyrics.
Similar to “Torn,” there’s karaoke, and then there’s “Flagpole Sitta” karaoke. “I wanna publish zines and rage against machines” perfectly sums up an era. “I don’t even own a TV” is the kind of statement hipsters stopped making the moment the 90s ended. “Flagpole Sitta” is an anthem for the alternative generation and a quintessential 90s song.
Aaliyah – “Are You That Somebody?” (1998)
One of Timbaland’s most avant-garde productions, yet Aaliyah transforms it into pure pop perfection with her effortlessly cool vocals. “Are You That Somebody?” showcases the innovative soundscapes and smooth R&B vocals that defined a significant portion of 90s songs.
Oasis – “Wonderwall” (1995)
Oasis brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher performing "Wonderwall," their iconic Britpop image synonymous with the song's popularity.
Noel Gallagher later confessed he had no idea what a wonderwall actually was. And neither did anyone else. But it didn’t matter then, and it doesn’t matter now. “Wonderwall” possesses the magical ability to transform any space into a raucous, slightly off-key pub singalong. This Britpop anthem became a global phenomenon and a must-include on any list of favorite 90s songs.
Mobb Deep – “Shook Ones Pt. II” (1995)
A hip-hop “Gimme Shelter,” “Shook Ones Pt. II” delivers a stark report from the urban warzone by Queensbridge duo Prodigy and Havoc. In their world, even a fleeting moment of fear, or any emotion for that matter, can be fatal, because “there ain’t no such thing as halfway crooks.” Mobb Deep were the grittiest of the mid-90s East Coast hip-hop crews, and their signature hit remains as chilling and impactful today as it was upon release, cementing its status as a crucial 90s song.
Smashing Pumpkins – “1979” (1995)
Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins performing "1979," his introspective and emotional stage presence matching the song's nostalgic mood.
Billy Corgan’s ode to the bittersweet pangs of a generic suburban Midwestern adolescent summer, “1979” features a captivating hook built around James Iha’s shimmering guitar work. Even Corgan-skeptics couldn’t deny its brilliance. Also famously known as “the one so good Pavement covered it.” “Faster than the speed of sound, faster than we thought we’d go”—lyrics that perfectly capture the fleeting nature of youth and the nostalgia that permeates many 90s songs.
Beck – “Loser” (1993)
The poet of his generation—the 90s had a surplus of them (the poet-per-generation ratio reached unprecedented levels). Beck arrived on the scene with a blues riff, a beatbox, a leaf blower, and a music video that playfully violated George Lucas’ copyrights. “Loser” was a genre-bending, ironic anthem that perfectly encapsulated the slacker spirit of the 90s, and remains one of the most distinctive 90s songs.
Whitney Houston featuring Faith Evans and Kelly Price – “Heartbreak Hotel” (1998)
Whitney Houston performing "Heartbreak Hotel," her powerful vocals and emotional delivery highlighting the song's themes of heartbreak and resilience.
Whitney Houston dismisses a trifling man with “Heartbreak Hotel.” Her voice builds from subtle whispers to soaring high notes, delivering sweet revenge with every octave. At the time, it felt like the dawn of a new era for Whitney. Sadly, it marked a turning point, and while a powerful track, it became a poignant reminder of what could have been, yet remains a powerful 90s song.
Garbage – “Queer” (1995)
Shirley Manson’s haunting vocals meet alt-rock super-producer Butch Vig’s polished studio effects in “Queer.” Whispering, “You can touch me if you want/But you can’t stop,” Manson’s voice burrows under your skin and lingers. Eerie and captivating, “Queer” showcases the darker, more industrial-tinged side of 90s songs.
Beastie Boys – “Sure Shot” (1994)
Beastie Boys performing "Sure Shot," their energetic and playful stage presence mirroring the song's vibe.
The Beastie Boys flex their intellectual prowess with “Sure Shot,” featuring Adam Yauch’s shout-out “to all the mothers and the sisters and the wives and friends.” “Because you can’t, you won’t and you don’t stop”—a mantra that perfectly encapsulates the Beastie Boys’ enduring energy and innovation, and this track is a prime example of their contribution to 90s songs.
Sleater-Kinney – “Get Up” (1999)
The Portland punk goddesses, Sleater-Kinney, perfectly capture the feeling of being lost and isolated, yet refusing to surrender quietly. “Get Up” features guitars that sound like a cascade of stars falling into the universe, raw and powerful. This song embodies the riot grrrl spirit and the fierce independence that defined a segment of 90s songs.
Outkast – “Rosa Parks” (1998)
Outkast, André 3000 and Big Boi, performing "Rosa Parks," their dynamic stage presence and Southern hip-hop style defining the song's energy.
This Dirty South booty-shaking anthem, “Rosa Parks,” became the funky bus jam of the decade, complete with the harmonica solo of the decade (apologies to Blues Traveler!). It was the first taste for much of the country of what Big Boi and André 3000 were brewing in ATLien nation. It also introduced the word “crunk” to the mainstream lexicon. And even today, it still sounds absolutely insane, making it a truly groundbreaking 90s song.
R.E.M. – “Nightswimming” (1992)
A prediction no one would have made on New Year’s Eve 1989: “R.E.M.’s best albums are still ahead of them—in fact, they’re about to release four stone-cold classics in a row. And Michael Stipe will slow-dance with Natalie Merchant at the inauguration of our next president. Yes, a Democrat.” “Nightswimming” is a bittersweet piano reverie about skinny-dipping in the Georgia pines, with Stipe trying to preserve these fleeting memories before they fade and are replaced by the mundane. This song is a beautiful and nostalgic reflection, a hallmark of the introspective side of 90s songs.
Ol’ Dirty Bastard – “Brooklyn Zoo” (1995)
Ol' Dirty Bastard performing "Brooklyn Zoo," his wild and unpredictable stage persona mirroring the song's chaotic energy.
The Wu-Tang universe was designed for intricate album-length explorations, but “Brooklyn Zoo” was their most successful and humorous attempt at radio airplay. ODB, a.k.a. Big Baby Jesus, unleashes his signature chaotic energy all over RZA’s broken piano keys. Proof that Wu-Tang truly is for the children, and that even their most unconventional tracks could become beloved 90s songs.
The Breeders – “Cannonball” (1993)
Kim Deal emerges from the ashes of alt-rock icons the Pixies with her twin sister, Kelley, on guitar, and delivers “Cannonball,” a wonderfully messy, big-hearted song. “Cannonball” became one of the strangest radio hits of the 90s—or any decade before it, showcasing the quirky and unpredictable nature of 90s songs.
Hole – “Doll Parts” (1994)
Courtney Love of Hole performing "Doll Parts," her raw emotion and powerful stage presence embodying the song's vulnerability and strength.
Courtney Love’s finest moment. “Doll Parts” is emotionally raw and intensely personal. You know those nights when your mom puts on this song, then goes to the driveway to cry alone in the car? Someday, you will ache with the same depth of feeling. “Doll Parts” is a powerful and enduring representation of the emotional honesty found in 90s songs.
TLC – “No Scrubs” (1999)
Oh yes, son, she’s talking directly to you. TLC, the crazy-sexy-cool Atlanta trio, closed out the decade they dominated with “No Scrubs,” a hilarious and pointed rant aimed at street harassment, and much more. Burn on, Left Eye, and burn on this iconic 90s song.
Liz Phair – “Fuck and Run” (1993)
Liz Phair performing "Fuck and Run," her direct and honest stage presence mirroring the song's raw lyrics.
Believe it or not, we thought we had problems back in 1993. Liz Phair testifies about disposable men in a plainspoken voice that cuts straight to the heart. The unfortunate truth is that the song’s themes never become outdated. Same old story: “Boys only want love if it’s torture.” “Fuck and Run” is a brutally honest and relatable track, demonstrating the confessional singer-songwriter style prominent in 90s songs.
Pulp – “Common People” (1995)
Jarvis Cocker exudes more soul and swagger with a single puff of smoke than most singers possess in their entire careers. “Common People” is a Britpop masterpiece brimming with sex, sarcasm, and despair—but mostly sex. This song is a witty and insightful social commentary wrapped in an irresistible melody, a hallmark of the best 90s songs.
Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott – ”The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” (1997)
Missy Elliott performing "The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)," her innovative style and futuristic visuals mirroring the song's groundbreaking sound.
Introducing Missy Elliott and Timbaland, the dynamic duo who essentially stole the entire decade of 90s songs. Together, they warp a 70s R&B sample into a long, steamy Southern night, complete with crickets chirping and storm clouds gathering. “Oh, Missy, try to maintain”—words that are both humorous and a testament to the innovative soundscapes they created. “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” is a groundbreaking and iconic 90s song.
Pavement – “Gold Soundz” (1994)
All the boyish heart-on-sleeve urgency of Pet Sounds packed into just three minutes. Stephen Malkmus and his slacker crew waste not a single second of “Gold Soundz.” Every guitar twang, every breathy mumble contributes to a note-perfect emotional surge. Almost as if they actually care or something. “Gold Soundz” is a masterclass in indie rock songwriting and a crucial 90s song.
Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg – “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” (1992)
Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg performing "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang," their West Coast hip-hop style and laid-back swagger defining the song's vibe.
Dr. Dre, already a legend, returned mightier than ever, with significant help from the rising star Snoop Dogg. “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is a groove that makes any car bounce, with a bassline as authentic as “Real Deal” Holyfield. This track launched West Coast G-funk into the mainstream and remains one of the most influential 90s songs.
Bikini Kill – “Rebel Girl” (1993)
Bikini Kill, three riot grrrls (led by the fierce Kathleen Hanna) and their token male guitarist, entered a recording studio with Joan Jett and emerged with “Rebel Girl,” a seven-inch single that fulfilled every radical promise punk rock ever made. “Rebel Girl” is an anthem for the neighborhood girl with revolution in her hips. Rock & roll with political and emotional force? How truly bizarre and utterly essential to the landscape of 90s songs.
Notorious B.I.G. featuring Mase and Puff Daddy – “Mo Money Mo Problems” (1997)
The Notorious B.I.G. performing "Mo Money Mo Problems," his larger-than-life persona and smooth delivery defining the song's appeal.
The late, great Notorious B.I.G. possesses more soul and swagger just clearing his throat before his verse than most rappers have in their entire careers. “Mo Money Mo Problems” became an unintentional epitaph, reaching Number One shortly after his death, yet making him sound incredibly alive. The burning question remains: Did Mase ever get to see his name on a blimp? Regardless, this track is a timeless 90s song.
Blackstreet – “No Diggity” (1996)
A utopian celebration of the rump-shaking essence of American music. Teddy Riley, the beatmaster from Virginia via Harlem, crafted a groove from doo-wop, Dr. Dre, old-school R&B harmonies, a piano rumble, and a Bill Withers acoustic blues guitar sample. We are all living in the future this song envisioned, and all the luckier for it. “No Diggity” is a genre-blending masterpiece and a celebratory 90s song.
Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (1991)
Nirvana performing "Smells Like Teen Spirit," Kurt Cobain's raw energy and iconic grunge image defining the song's impact.
The song that detonated across the globe. The song that defied every rule about music composition and the sheer volume of raw emotion that could be crammed into four simple chords and a deliberately sloppy guitar solo. The song that kicked the future squarely in the teeth. The song that shattered any complacency about accepting the status quo. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was Kurt Cobain’s challenge to the audience—and after all these years, that challenge still resonates, making it the defining 90s song.
The 1990s was truly a golden age for music, a decade overflowing with creativity and innovation across genres. These 50 songs represent just a small slice of the incredible music that defined the era. From pop anthems to grunge manifestos, hip-hop innovations to electronic explorations, these favorite 90s songs continue to resonate and remind us of the decade’s unparalleled musical landscape.
