The 1990s were a transformative era for music, a thrilling free-for-all where genres collided and new sounds emerged from every corner. Radio waves buzzed with an eclectic mix, showcasing everything from the raw energy of grunge to the defiant beats of gangsta rap, the infectious rhythms of dancehall, and the resurgence of disco. Riot grrrl punk clashed with the sugary sweetness of TRL mall-pop, while electronica branched into countless subgenres, mirroring the prolific output of the Wu-Tang Clan’s solo endeavors. No matter your taste, the 90s offered a sonic feast, a richer and more diverse musical landscape than any decade before. While no single list can fully encapsulate such a vibrant period – you could easily compile hundreds of amazing tracks just from the summer of ’94 – these 50 essential songs represent the highlights of the 90s music explosion. These are the hits, the hidden gems, the cult favorites, the dance floor anthems, the guitar-driven rock anthems, and the karaoke staples that defined a generation. So, get ready to dive back into the 90s and rediscover some of the coolest songs that shaped the decade.
Fuzzy, “Flashlight” (1994)
Emerging seemingly from nowhere and just as quickly disappearing, Fuzzy, a band of grunge-adjacent musicians from Boston, gifted us with one truly exceptional song. “Flashlight” features a melancholic female vocalist singing almost unintelligible lyrics about a flashlight and navigating through darkness. Largely overlooked, it was a treasure discovered by those fortunate enough to catch MTV’s 120 Minutes during its late-night music showcases. This begs the question: how many other fantastic quasi-grunge tracks lie buried within forgotten major-label albums from the post-Nirvana gold rush, waiting to be unearthed? While few may reach the brilliance of “Flashlight,” the search itself is a rewarding endeavor for any 90s music enthusiast.
Britney Spears, “Sometimes” (1999)
Britney Spears Sometimes cool songs from the 90s
“Sometimes” was more than just Britney Spears’ second hit; it was her first triumphant comeback. Skeptics doubted the longevity of the “…Baby One More Time” sensation, expecting her fame to be fleeting. However, “Sometimes” became the Total Request Live anthem that solidified Britney’s staying power and established her as a blueprint for a new wave of pop stars. This song signaled a shift, welcoming us to the sound of pop music in the approaching new century and cementing Britney Spears as a 90s music icon.
The Offspring, “Self Esteem” (1994)
The Offspring, hailing from Orange County’s hardcore scene, unexpectedly achieved megaplatinum success with “Self Esteem,” a catchy tune centered on the theme of masochism. The lyric, “I may be dumb, but I’m not a dweeb,” resonated widely and remains surprisingly relevant, unless, of course, you identify as a “dumb dweeb,” in which case you might just be the subject of this iconic 90s song.
Selena, “Fotos y Recuerdos” (1994)
Selena Fotos y Recuerdos 90s music hits
Selena, the beloved Tejano music queen, masterfully reimagined The Pretenders’ classic “Back on the Chain Gang,” translating it into Spanish for “Fotos y Recuerdos.” The song soared into the Top Five on the Billboard Latin charts the very week of her tragic passing, becoming a poignant and enduring testament to her talent and influence in 90s music.
Silver Jews, “Random Rules” (1998)
Imagine a honky-tonk lounge in hell, and “Random Rules” by Silver Jews is the song playing on the jukebox as the night winds down. David Berman’s distinctively wry and philosophical lyrics, delivered in his signature croon, perfectly capture the mood of late-night contemplation at the bar, making it a unique entry in Cool Songs From The 90s.
Lil Kim With Lil Cease, “Crush on You (Remix)” (1997)
Lil Kim Crush on You Remix best 90s hip hop songs
“Crush on You (Remix)” is the quintessential Bad Boy Records hit, built upon a strangely somber synth loop, featuring Lil Cease taking cues from Biggie, and showcasing the undeniable confidence of Lil’ Kim, the Queen Bee herself. Her verses are a dazzling display of bravado, highlighting her signature style with wigs and furs. The track’s infectious energy is perfectly encapsulated in the call-and-response, “Shall I proceed?” “Yes, indeed!” making it a standout 90s hip hop track.
Stereolab, “Cybele’s Reverie” (1996)
“Voulez vous coucher avec le revolution?” Stereolab, the European masters of vintage-keyboard aesthetics, consistently produced albums filled with rich, politically charged, trance-inducing progressive music. “Cybele’s Reverie” stands as the pinnacle of their sonic explorations, a must-listen for fans of experimental 90s sounds.
Supergrass, “Alright” (1995)
Supergrass Alright iconic 90s songs
Choosing just one song from the Clueless soundtrack to represent 90s music is a daunting task, almost as challenging as finding intellectual depth in a Pauly Shore movie. However, Supergrass’ “Alright” perfectly encapsulates the youthful exuberance and carefree spirit of the 90s, making it an iconic track from the decade and the soundtrack.
Ace of Base, “The Sign” (1994)
Ace of Base, the world’s most successful Swedish reggae-influenced band, achieved global fame with “The Sign,” a mystical hit whose lyrics suggest a non-native English speaker might have been involved. Lines like “Life is demanding/Without understanding” possess a certain enigmatic truth. The 90s indeed proved to be a unique decade for Swedish reggae and pop music.
Sophie B. Hawkins, “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” (1992)
Sophie B Hawkins Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover best 90s ballads
Sophie B. Hawkins, channeling a bohemian sex priestess persona, passionately laments unrequited love in “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover.” In her delivery, the word “damn” carries an unexpected weight of emotional pain, making this a powerful and memorable 90s ballad.
Big Pun Feat. Joe, “Still Not a Player” (1998)
“Uptown, baby.” Big Pun, the late, great Bronx MC, joined forces with R&B crooner Joe on “Still Not a Player.” Set against a backdrop of smooth lovers-rock piano, they serenade “highly intelligent bachelorettes” with a pan-cultural chant (“boricua, morena“) and suggestive lyrics. This track is a testament to Big Pun’s charisma and lyrical prowess. R.I.P., Pun – he may have claimed to be “not a player,” but his impact on 90s hip hop was undeniable.
Sebadoh, “Brand New Love” (1992)
Sebadoh Brand New Love 90s indie rock
Sebadoh, the punk-spirited indie band, took a significant step towards emotional openness with “Brand New Love.” This folk-infused ballad, punctuated by bursts of feedback, explores the vulnerability of opening up to new feelings and the tentative smile exchanged with someone across the room. It captures a poignant moment of growth and connection in 90s indie rock.
Geto Boys, “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” (1991)
“Mind Playing Tricks on Me” by Geto Boys stands as perhaps the most chilling gangsta rap narrative ever recorded. The song culminates with Willie D’s visceral portrayal of despair, pounding his bloodied fists against concrete, all set to a backdrop of unsettling jazz-fusion loops. It’s a stark and powerful example of 90s hip hop’s storytelling capacity.
New Radicals, “You Get What You Give” (1998)
New Radicals You Get What You Give 90s one hit wonders
New Radicals epitomize the quintessential one-hit wonder with “You Get What You Give.” This gloriously anthemic track, perfect for proms and featuring a memorable mall-riot themed video complete with a bucket hat, also includes cheeky insults directed at Beck, Hanson, Courtney Love, and Marilyn Manson. And then, just as quickly as they arrived, they disappeared. The New Radicals frontman later received an Oscar nomination in 2015 for Begin Again, but sadly, he opted against sporting the iconic bucket hat on the red carpet. Despite their brief time in the spotlight, “You Get What You Give” remains a beloved 90s anthem.
Portishead, “Glory Box” (1994)
Portishead’s “Glory Box” is the embodiment of elegant trip-hop melancholy. Beth Gibbons’s soulful vocals convey heartbreak and sorrow, perfectly complemented by the timeless, cheeba-infused Isaac Hayes sample from the 70s. This sample found its way back onto the radio in 2015 through Alessia Cara, who wasn’t even born when “Glory Box” first captivated listeners, highlighting the song’s enduring appeal.
Sheryl Crow, “If It Makes You Happy” (1996)
Sheryl Crow If It Makes You Happy cool 90s rock songs
Sheryl Crow won over audiences instantly with the relatable opening line of “If It Makes You Happy,” referencing scraping mold off bread. It’s the ultimate 90s depiction of rock & roll stoner lethargy, delivered with Crow’s signature blend of wit and laid-back cool, making it a standout among cool 90s rock songs.
En Vogue, “Don’t Let Go (Love)” (1996)
En Vogue, the queens of funky diva harmonies, delivered their steamiest slow jam with “Don’t Let Go (Love).” The song explores themes of lovemaking, heartbreak, and soul-stirring emotions. The standout moment is the unforgettable line: “If I could wear your clothes… I’d pretend I was you… and looooose controoool!” showcasing their vocal prowess and the song’s passionate core.
Helium, “XXX” (1994)
Helium XXX 90s alternative songs
Mary Timony, a guitar hero who later went on to form Wild Flag and Ex Hex, fronts Helium on “XXX.” She delivers a deceptively sweet ballad with a darkly humorous twist: street harassment will be met with deadly force, as her guitar becomes a weapon. The song culminates in a literal guitar-as-weapon moment, while Timony nonchalantly sings her deadpan kiss-off lines: “My heart is a cab…your love is a fad…and you’re a draaag!” showcasing the unique edge of 90s alternative songs.
Foxy Brown With Jay Z, “I’ll Be” (1996)
Foxy Brown declares, “I’m 2 live, nasty as I wanna be,” while Jay Z counters with, “Don’t shake your sassy ass in front of me” in “I’ll Be.” Jay-Z, fresh off the release of Reasonable Doubt, demonstrated his burgeoning mastery with this hit alongside his young protégé, Foxy Brown. This collaboration was just one example of his growing influence, foreshadowing his decades-long reign at the top of hip hop.
Underworld, “Born Slippy .Nuxx” (1996)
Underworld Born Slippy Nuxx 90s electronic music
“Born Slippy .Nuxx” by Underworld is a sonic explosion of techno sensory overload. Its popularity surged after its inclusion in Trainspotting, becoming synonymous with the film thanks to its iconic “lager lager lager lager” chant. However, judging by the song’s intense energy, lager might be one of the milder substances not involved in its creation, making it a defining track in 90s electronic music.
Sir Mix-A-Lot, “Baby Got Back” (1992)
“Butt of course.” Sir Mix-A-Lot’s “Baby Got Back” is a cultural phenomenon. Nearly everyone in the English-speaking world can quote lines from this unapologetically pro-butt anthem. It’s a humorous and body-positive track that became a defining and instantly recognizable song of the 90s.
Fiona Apple, “Paper Bag” (1999)
Fiona Apple Paper Bag best female artists 90s
“Paper Bag” by Fiona Apple captures a poignant moment of disillusionment. The simple yet powerful lyric, “She thought he was a man, but he was just a little boy,” encapsulates the song’s theme of romantic disappointment and the complexities of relationships, delivered with Apple’s signature raw emotion and making her one of the best female artists of the 90s.
Weezer, “Pink Triangle” (1996)
Years before “overshare” became a common term, Rivers Cuomo of Weezer took lyrical vulnerability to a new extreme with “Pink Triangle.” This love song, released well before most people encountered the term “overshare” (perhaps first hearing it in the movie Bring It On starring Kirsten Dunst), is the epitome of straight-dude cluelessness. While Cuomo may have considered himself on par with Nirvana in his own mind, “Nirvana in his mind’s no good,” as the song wryly suggests, making it a uniquely self-aware entry in 90s music.
Daft Punk, “Around the World” (1997)
Daft Punk Around the World iconic 90s electronic songs
Daft Punk, the enigmatic French techno robots, took the bassline from Chic’s “Good Times” on an otherworldly journey in “Around the World.” This track, with its infectious filter-house sound, launched countless imitators and became an iconic piece of 90s electronic music, instantly recognizable and endlessly danceable.
Natalie Imbruglia, “Torn” (1998)
There’s karaoke, and then there’s “Torn” karaoke. For many, 1998 remains the pinnacle of karaoke summers, and Natalie Imbruglia’s “Torn” was a central anthem. It remains an enduring tear-jerker, even though when considering Imbruglia’s subsequent celebrity relationships, one realizes she likely doesn’t need anyone’s shoulder to cry on, solidifying its place among cool songs from the 90s.
Harvey Danger, “Flagpole Sitta” (1998)
Harvey Danger Flagpole Sitta 90s alternative rock anthems
Similar to “Torn,” “Flagpole Sitta” by Harvey Danger occupies a special place in karaoke culture. The lyrics “I wanna publish zines and rage against machines” perfectly encapsulate the 90s zeitgeist, while “I don’t even own a TV” became a cliché hipsters quickly abandoned as the decade ended. “Flagpole Sitta” remains a quintessential 90s alternative rock anthem, capturing a specific moment in time.
Aaliyah, “Are You That Somebody” (1998)
“Are You That Somebody” is one of Timbaland’s most boldly avant-garde productions. Yet, Aaliyah’s effortlessly cool vocals transform it into pure pop perfection. Her smooth delivery glides over Timbaland’s innovative beat, creating a track that’s both experimental and undeniably catchy, showcasing the unique sound of 90s R&B.
Oasis, “Wonderwall” (1995)
Oasis Wonderwall 90s Britpop classics
Noel Gallagher himself admitted he had no idea what a “wonderwall” actually was. And truth be told, neither did anyone else. But it didn’t matter then, and it doesn’t matter now. Oasis’s “Wonderwall” possesses a universal singalong quality, instantly transforming any space into a boisterous, slightly out-of-tune pub gathering. It’s a quintessential 90s Britpop classic, beloved for its anthemic chorus and emotional resonance, regardless of its lyrical ambiguity.
Mobb Deep, “Shook Ones Pt. II” (1995)
“Shook Ones Pt. II” by Mobb Deep is often considered the hip-hop equivalent of “Gimme Shelter,” a raw and unflinching report from the urban battleground. Queensbridge duo Prodigy and Havoc paint a vivid picture of a world where vulnerability, even a fleeting moment of fear, can be fatal. “There ain’t no such thing as halfway crooks” is the track’s chilling mantra. Mobb Deep were among the grittiest of the mid-90s East Coast hip hop crews, and their defining hit has only intensified in its impact over time.
Smashing Pumpkins, “1979” (1995)
Smashing Pumpkins 1979 90s alternative anthems
Billy Corgan’s “1979” is an ode to the bittersweet nostalgia of a generic suburban Midwestern adolescent summer. Built around James Iha’s shimmering guitar hook, the song transcended even Corgan-skeptics’ criticisms. Famously covered by Pavement, “1979” captures a feeling of youthful yearning and fleeting moments, resonating as a powerful 90s alternative anthem. “Faster than the speed of sound, faster than we thought we’d go,” the lyrics perfectly evoke the feeling of time speeding by.
Beck, “Loser” (1993)
Beck emerged as a poet for his generation – the 90s were overflowing with them. (The poet-per-generation ratio reached unprecedented levels in that decade). “Loser” arrived with a bluesy guitar riff, a beatbox rhythm, a leaf blower, and a music video playfully infringing on George Lucas’s copyrights. “Praise the gods and pass the Cheez Whiz,” the song seems to declare, perfectly capturing Beck’s ironic and genre-bending approach to 90s music.
Whitney Houston Feat. Faith Evans and Kelly Price, “Heartbreak Hotel” (1998)
Whitney Houston Heartbreak Hotel 90s R&B hits
Whitney Houston, alongside Faith Evans and Kelly Price, delivered a powerful kiss-off to a trifling lover in “Heartbreak Hotel.” Whitney’s voice builds from hushed whispers to soaring high notes, a vocal performance that embodies sweet revenge. At the time, it felt like the dawn of a new era for Whitney. Sadly, it inadvertently became a poignant closing chapter, though still showcasing her incredible talent and solidifying her place among 90s R&B hits.
Garbage, “Queer” (1995)
Shirley Manson’s haunting vocals meet alt-rock superproducer Butch Vig’s sophisticated studio production in Garbage’s “Queer.” Whispering the provocative lines, “You can touch me if you want/But you can’t stop,” Manson’s voice gets under your skin and lingers there, creating a captivating and unsettling atmosphere, characteristic of cool songs from the 90s.
Beastie Boys, “Sure Shot” (1994)
Beastie Boys Sure Shot best 90s hip hop groups
The Beastie Boys, flexing their intellectual and lyrical prowess, delivered “Sure Shot,” featuring Adam Yauch’s shout-out “to all the mothers and the sisters and the wives and friends.” With the infectious energy and intricate sampling they were known for, the Beastie Boys proved once again, “you can’t, you won’t and you don’t stop,” solidifying their status as one of the best 90s hip hop groups.
Sleater-Kinney, “Get Up” (1999)
Sleater-Kinney, the Portland-based punk rock goddesses, perfectly captured the feeling of isolation and defiance in “Get Up.” Even when feeling lost, the song is a refusal to surrender quietly, powered by guitars that sound like a cascade of stars exploding across the universe, making it a powerful anthem for the end of the 90s.
Outkast, “Rosa Parks” (1998)
Outkast Rosa Parks iconic 90s hip hop songs
Outkast’s “Rosa Parks” was the ultimate Dirty South booty-shaking jam of the 90s, complete with the harmonica solo of the decade (apologies to Blues Traveler!). This track introduced much of the country to Big Boi and André 3000’s groundbreaking sound brewing in Atlanta’s “dirty-dirty ATLien nation.” It also popularized the term “crunk.” “Rosa Parks” remains as sonically innovative and captivating today as it was then, and is undoubtedly one of the most iconic 90s hip hop songs.
R.E.M. “Nightswimming” (1992)
Predicting on New Year’s Eve 1989 that “R.E.M.’s best albums were still ahead of them – in fact, they’re about to release four stone-cold classics in a row” would have been unbelievable. “Nightswimming” is a bittersweet piano-driven reverie about skinny-dipping in the Georgia pines. Michael Stipe’s vocals evoke a poignant desire to hold onto fleeting memories before they fade, replaced by the mundane realities of everyday life, making it a deeply moving song from the 90s.
Ol’ Dirty Bastard, “Brooklyn Zoo” (1995)
Ol Dirty Bastard Brooklyn Zoo funny 90s hip hop songs
The Wu-Tang Clan universe was built for complex album-length narratives, but “Brooklyn Zoo” by Ol’ Dirty Bastard was their most successful and humorous foray into radio-friendly territory. ODB, a.k.a. Big Baby Jesus, unleashes his signature chaotic energy all over RZA’s fractured piano keys. “Brooklyn Zoo” is proof that Wu-Tang, in their own unique way, really is “for the children,” and remains one of the funniest 90s hip hop songs.
The Breeders, “Cannonball” (1993)
Kim Deal, emerging from the ashes of alt-rock giants The Pixies, formed The Breeders with her twin sister, Kelley, on guitar. “Cannonball” is a gloriously messy, big-hearted, and wonderfully weird song. It became one of the most unusual radio hits of the 90s, or perhaps any decade before it, showcasing the quirky brilliance of 90s alternative music.
Hole, “Doll Parts” (1994)
Hole Doll Parts best 90s female rock songs
“Doll Parts” is arguably Courtney Love’s finest musical moment. The song’s raw emotionality is palpable. As the original description suggests, “You know how some nights your mom puts on this song, then goes out to the driveway to cry alone in the car? Someday you will ache like she aches.” “Doll Parts” is a powerful and deeply personal song, solidifying Love’s place among the best female rock artists of the 90s.
TLC, “No Scrubs” (1999)
“Oh, yes, son, she’s talking to you.” TLC, the crazy-sexy-cool Atlanta trio, closed out the decade they dominated with “No Scrubs.” This hilarious and pointed rant tackles street harassment and much more. “Burn on, Left Eye,” the song seems to say, celebrating female empowerment and sharp wit, defining late 90s R&B.
Liz Phair, “Fuck and Run” (1993)
Liz Phair Fuck and Run 90s indie female artists
“Believe it or not, we thought we had problems in 1993.” Liz Phair’s “Fuck and Run” testifies to the realities of disposable relationships with unflinching honesty. Her plainspoken delivery resonates deeply, highlighting a narrative that, unfortunately, remains timeless. “Same old story: Boys only want love if it’s torture,” the song observes with a knowing sigh, establishing Phair as a key voice among 90s indie female artists.
Pulp, “Common People” (1995)
Jarvis Cocker, the frontman of Pulp, possesses more soul and swagger in a single exhale of cigarette smoke than many singers manage throughout their entire careers. “Common People” is a Britpop masterpiece, brimming with sex, sarcasm, and a touch of despair – but mostly sex. It’s a witty and insightful social commentary wrapped in an irresistible pop package, a hallmark of cool songs from the 90s.
Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott, ”The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” (1997)
Missy Misdemeanor Elliott The Rain Supa Dupa Fly 90s female hip hop artists
“Introducing Missy and Timbaland, the duo who stole the decade.” “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” marked the arrival of Missy Elliott and Timbaland as a groundbreaking force in music. Together, they warped a 70s R&B sample into a steamy, atmospheric Southern night, complete with crickets chirping and looming storm clouds. “Oh, Missy, try to maintain,” the song playfully suggests, launching Missy Elliott as a major force among 90s female hip hop artists.
Pavement, “Gold Soundz” (1994)
“Gold Soundz” by Pavement encapsulates all the boyish heart-on-sleeve urgency of The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds condensed into three minutes. Stephen Malkmus and his slacker-rock crew waste not a single second of this track. Every guitar twang, every breathy mumble contributes to a perfectly crafted emotional surge. “Almost like they care or something,” the song seems to hint with characteristic Pavement irony, making it a standout in 90s indie rock.
Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” (1992)
Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg Nuthin but a G Thang iconic 90s hip hop tracks
Dr. Dre, already a legend from N.W.A., returned even stronger with “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang,” with a significant boost from the newcomer Snoop Dogg. This groove is undeniable, making any car bounce with its infectious bassline, “realer than ‘Real Deal’ Holyfield.” “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is an iconic 90s hip hop track that defined West Coast sound and launched Snoop Dogg into superstardom.
Bikini Kill, “Rebel Girl” (1993)
Bikini Kill, fronted by the fierce Kathleen Hanna and featuring their “token boy guitar player,” entered a recording studio with Joan Jett and emerged with “Rebel Girl.” This seven-inch single 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 genuine political and emotional power? “How bizarre,” the song ironically acknowledges, becoming a defining track of the riot grrrl movement and cool songs from the 90s.
Notorious B.I.G. With Mase and Puff Daddy, “Mo Money Mo Problems” (1997)
Notorious BIG Mo Money Mo Problems best 90s rap songs
The late, great Notorious B.I.G. possessed more soul and charisma in a mere throat-clearing before his verse than most rappers exhibit in their entire careers. “Mo Money Mo Problems” became an unintentional epitaph, reaching Number One posthumously yet making Biggie sound vibrantly alive. The burning question remains: “Did Mase ever get to see his name on a blimp?” Regardless, “Mo Money Mo Problems” is undeniably one of the best 90s rap songs.
Blackstreet, “No Diggity” (1996)
“No Diggity” by Blackstreet is a utopian celebration of the rump-shaking essence of American music. Teddy Riley, the Virginia-via-Harlem beatmaster, masterfully blended doo-wop, Dr. Dre influences, classic R&B harmonies, a rolling piano line, and a sample of acoustic blues guitar by Bill Withers. “We’re all living in the future this song envisioned, and all the luckier for it,” perfectly captures the timeless appeal and groundbreaking sound of “No Diggity” and 90s R&B.
Nirvana, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (1991)
Nirvana Smells Like Teen Spirit 90s grunge anthems
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana is the song that changed everything. It defied every established rule of music, packing an unprecedented amount of raw emotion into four simple chords and a deliberately rough guitar solo. It was the song that “kicked the future in the teeth,” shattering complacency and challenging the status quo. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was Kurt Cobain’s direct challenge to the audience – and after all these years, that challenge still resonates, making it the ultimate 90s grunge anthem and one of the coolest songs from the decade.
