The 1990s was a decade of diverse musical landscapes, from grunge and hip-hop to pop and R&B. Amidst these genres, love songs reigned supreme, capturing hearts with their heartfelt lyrics and unforgettable melodies. This era delivered some of the most iconic and enduring romantic anthems that continue to resonate with listeners today. Let’s take a nostalgic trip back to the 90s and explore some of the best love songs that defined a generation, perfect for reminiscing or adding to your ultimate love song playlist.
1. Robbie Williams – ‘She’s the One’
Originally penned and released by World Party in 1997, Robbie Williams transformed ‘She’s the One’ into a global phenomenon with his 1999 cover. This rendition, imbued with Williams’ signature charisma, catapulted to the top of the UK charts, becoming his second number-one single. Its sweeping melody and tender lyrics about finding “the one” resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, solidifying its place as a quintessential 90s love song. The track’s success was further cemented by Brit Awards wins, making it a defining moment in Robbie Williams’ solo career and a beloved ballad of the decade.
2. Simply Red – ‘Stars’
Simply Red’s ‘Stars’ is an upbeat, feel-good anthem that became synonymous with the early 1990s. Released in 1991, this track, with Mick Hucknall’s soulful vocals and the song’s infectious rhythm, propelled its namesake album to become a monumental success, dominating album charts in both 1991 and 1992 in the UK. Despite its massive popularity in Europe and beyond, ‘Stars’ surprisingly didn’t break into the top 40 in the United States initially, highlighting the song’s distinct regional impact. Its optimistic and uplifting message of love and hope continues to make it a cherished 90s love song, perfect for brightening any day.
3. Elton John – ‘Something About the Way You Look Tonight’
‘Something About the Way You Look Tonight’ by Elton John is a classic example of 90s romantic balladry. Released as a double A-side single with ‘Candle in the Wind 1997’, a tribute to Princess Diana, it was part of one of the best-selling singles of all time. While overshadowed by its poignant counterpart, ‘Something About the Way You Look Tonight’ is a beautiful love song in its own right. The music video featured stars from the British TV drama This Life and supermodels Kate Moss and Sophie Dahl, adding to its 90s cultural cachet. Elton John’s tender delivery and the song’s heartfelt lyrics celebrate the simple yet profound joy of admiring a loved one.
4. Sixpence None the Richer – ‘Kiss Me’
‘Kiss Me’ by Sixpence None the Richer became an instantly recognizable 90s love song thanks to its prominent placements in popular culture. Featured in the teen rom-com She’s All That and the hit TV series Dawson’s Creek, this track’s gentle melody and sweet lyrics about innocent romance captured the zeitgeist. It became the American band’s biggest hit and one of the best-selling songs of the decade, crossing over into mainstream pop from its alternative roots. The song’s whimsical and tender nature made it a favorite for first dances and romantic movie moments throughout the 90s and beyond.
5. Celine Dion – ‘Because You Loved Me’
‘Because You Loved Me’ is a powerful ballad by Celine Dion, penned by Diane Warren as the theme song for the film Up Close & Personal. This song is a soaring tribute to unwavering support and love, with Dion’s vocals delivering Warren’s heartfelt lyrics with characteristic strength and emotion. Nominated for three Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year, it although didn’t win any, remains one of Celine Dion’s signature songs and a staple of 90s love song compilations. Warren dedicated the song to her father, adding a layer of personal depth to its universal message of gratitude and love.
6. Wet Wet Wet – ‘Love is All Around’
Wet Wet Wet’s cover of ‘Love is All Around’ became a defining sound of the summer of 1994 and a monumental hit in UK chart history. Originally a song by The Troggs, director Richard Curtis commissioned Wet Wet Wet to record it for the film Four Weddings and a Funeral. The result was chart domination, spending an incredible 15 weeks at number one in the UK. Lead singer Marti Pellow acknowledged the song’s simplicity as its strength, making it universally appealing. Despite its ubiquity, ‘Love is All Around’ remains a beloved and instantly recognizable 90s love song, forever linked to the romantic comedy classic.
7. Sinead O’Connor – ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’
‘Nothing Compares 2 U’ is a deeply emotional ballad originally written by Prince. It was first recorded by his funk band The Family, but it was Sinéad O’Connor’s haunting rendition in 1990 that transformed it into a global phenomenon. Suggested to O’Connor by her manager, Fachtna O’Kelly, her version accentuated the song’s raw vulnerability and heartbreak. The iconic music video, featuring O’Connor’s close-up and tearful expression, became as famous as the song itself. ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’ is a powerful and unforgettable 90s love song, showcasing the pain of lost love with unmatched intensity.
8. Extreme – ‘More than Words’
Extreme, primarily known for their funk metal style, surprised the music world with the acoustic ballad ‘More Than Words’ in 1990. This stripped-down love song, featuring just acoustic guitar and vocals, became an unexpected massive hit, showcasing the band’s versatility. While they later described its overwhelming success as a “blessing and a curse,” ‘More Than Words’ remains one of the most recognizable 90s love songs. Its simple yet profound message about actions speaking louder than words continues to resonate, making it a favorite for dedications and romantic gestures.
9. Leann Rimes – ‘How Do I Live’
‘How Do I Live’ by LeAnn Rimes is one of the best-selling country ballads of all time and a staple of 90s radio. Originally intended for the Con Air soundtrack, a version by Trisha Yearwood was ultimately chosen for the film. However, Rimes’ version was quickly released and became the bigger hit, showcasing her powerful vocals and the song’s emotional depth. The song explores the desperation and vulnerability of being deeply in love, becoming a go-to anthem for heartbreak and longing throughout the decade and beyond.
10. Toni Braxton – ‘Un-Break My Heart’
Toni Braxton initially disliked ‘Un-Break My Heart’, but producer LA Reid’s persuasion proved to be a stroke of genius. This ballad, with its poignant lyrics about heartbreak and regret, became a massive global hit for Braxton, defining her career and the sound of 90s R&B love songs. Billboard even declared it the most successful song by a solo artist in their first 40 years, highlighting its immense impact. ‘Un-Break My Heart’ remains a quintessential 90s love song, showcasing Braxton’s smooth vocals and the decade’s penchant for emotional ballads.
11. The Corrs – ‘Runaway’
‘Runaway’ by The Corrs, originally released in 1995, enjoyed a slow-burn success, finally becoming a huge hit in 1999. Written by sisters Andrea, Sharon, and Caroline Corr, this song blends pop sensibilities with traditional Irish instrumentation, creating a unique and enchanting sound. Andrea Corr’s lead vocals and the song’s romantic lyrics about longing and escape resonated with audiences, making it a late-decade 90s love song favorite. Its enduring appeal highlights the timeless quality of its melody and heartfelt sentiment.
12. Take That – ‘A Million Love Songs’
‘A Million Love Songs’ holds a special place in Take That’s history, marking a turning point in their career. Written by Gary Barlow when he was just 15, this ballad showcased a more mature and sincere side to the boy band, helping them gain credibility as pop artists. Released in 1992, it became an early UK top 10 hit for Take That and a staple of 90s love song playlists. Barlow’s songwriting talent and the song’s romantic sincerity established Take That as more than just a manufactured pop group.
13. Tracy Chapman – ‘Baby Can I Hold You’
‘Baby Can I Hold You’ by Tracy Chapman, while not a huge hit upon its initial release, has grown into one of her signature songs and a quietly powerful 90s love song. Its simple acoustic arrangement and Chapman’s emotive vocals deliver a raw and honest plea for intimacy and reassurance. Boyzone’s later cover in 1997 became a bigger commercial hit, further cementing the song’s status as a modern classic. Chapman’s original version, however, retains its poignant and understated beauty, making it a timeless expression of vulnerability in love.
14. Roxette – ‘It Must Have Been Love’
‘It Must Have Been Love’ by Roxette became a global phenomenon thanks to its inclusion in the iconic 1990 film Pretty Woman. Originally a Christmas song titled ‘It Must Have Been Love (Christmas for the Broken Hearted)’ from 1987, it was reworked without the festive references for the movie soundtrack. The film’s massive success propelled the song to number one worldwide, becoming Roxette’s biggest hit and a defining 90s power ballad. Its blend of soaring vocals and emotional lyrics about lost love continues to make it a karaoke favorite and a staple of romantic playlists.
15. Tina Arena – ‘Chains’
‘Chains’ is a powerful ballad that became Australian singer Tina Arena’s biggest international hit in 1995. Reaching number six in the UK, the song showcased Arena’s impressive vocal range and emotional delivery. Its themes of breaking free from emotional constraints and finding personal strength resonated with audiences worldwide. When Arena was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2015, she performed ‘Chains’ with The Veronicas and Jessica Mauboy, further solidifying its status as an Australian classic and a memorable 90s love song about empowerment and self-discovery within relationships.
16. Boyz II Men – ‘End of the Road’
‘End of the Road’ by Boyz II Men cemented their status as the leading vocal group of the 90s and became one of the greatest R&B love songs of all time. Dominating the US charts for an astounding 13 weeks in 1992, the song’s smooth harmonies and heartfelt lyrics about the pain of a relationship ending captivated audiences. ‘End of the Road’ is a quintessential example of 90s R&B balladry, showcasing Boyz II Men’s vocal prowess and the decade’s love for emotional and vocally driven love songs.
17. All-4-One – ‘I Swear’
‘I Swear’ achieved chart-topping success in two distinct versions in the 1990s, highlighting its universal appeal. John Michael Montgomery’s original country version topped the country charts in 1993, while All-4-One’s R&B cover became a massive pop hit in 1994, spending 11 weeks at number one in the US. All-4-One’s rendition, with its smooth vocal harmonies, propelled the song to global recognition, even reaching number two in the UK (famously kept off the top spot by Wet Wet Wet’s ‘Love is All Around’). This illustrates the broad appeal of ‘I Swear’ as a 90s love song, transcending genre boundaries.
18. Savage Garden – ‘Truly Madly Deeply’
‘Truly Madly Deeply’ by Savage Garden is a quintessential 90s ballad known for its romantic intensity and soaring melody. Interestingly, it evolved from an earlier song called ‘Magical Kisses’, showcasing the band’s songwriting process. Released as a single from their debut album, it topped charts in Australia and the US, and reached number four in the UK, becoming one of Savage Garden’s signature songs. Its heartfelt lyrics about unconditional and enduring love, combined with Darren Hayes’ powerful vocals, made it a favorite for weddings and romantic dedications throughout the late 90s.
19. Shania Twain – ‘You’re Still the One’
‘You’re Still the One’ was a crossover hit for Shania Twain, propelling her from country stardom to international pop icon status. Co-written with her then-husband Mutt Lange, this song blended country and pop elements seamlessly, appealing to a wide audience. Released in 1998, it showcased Twain’s charismatic vocals and the song’s optimistic message about lasting love, defying expectations. ‘You’re Still the One’ became one of the most played 90s love songs, proving that love can endure and thrive over time.
20. Elton John – ‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’
‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’ by Elton John, from Disney’s The Lion King, transcended its animated origins to become a beloved love song for all ages. Written with Tim Rice, it won the Oscar for Best Song in 1994 and a Grammy Award for Elton John, recognizing its musical excellence. While initially composed for lion characters, its themes of love, destiny, and connection are universally relatable. Elton John’s powerful delivery and the song’s sweeping orchestration make it a timeless and romantic 90s classic, proving love songs can come from the most unexpected places.
21. Goo Goo Dolls – ‘Iris’
‘Iris’ by the Goo Goo Dolls was written for the 1998 romantic drama City of Angels and perfectly captured the film’s themes of mortality and love. Sung from the perspective of Nicolas Cage’s angel character, the song explores the desire to experience human emotions, especially love, even at the cost of immortality. Johnny Rzeznik’s raw vocals and the song’s emotionally charged lyrics resonated deeply with listeners, making ‘Iris’ a defining 90s alternative rock ballad and a powerful expression of devotion.
22. En Vogue – ‘Don’t Let Go (Love)’
‘Don’t Let Go (Love)’ was En Vogue’s last single to feature Dawn Robinson and became their biggest international hit, showcasing their signature harmonies and sophisticated R&B sound. Originally recorded for the soundtrack of the 1996 movie Set It Off, the song blends themes of heartbreak and resilience. Despite its success, it marked a turning point for En Vogue as Dawn Robinson left for a solo career shortly after. ‘Don’t Let Go (Love)’ remains a classic 90s girl group anthem, demonstrating strength and independence within the context of a love song.
23. Take That – ‘Back for Good’
‘Back for Good’ is another Gary Barlow-penned ballad for Take That, showcasing his songwriting prowess. Famously claimed to have been written in just 15 minutes, this song became one of Take That’s signature hits and a defining 90s love song. Barlow’s lead vocals and the song’s heartfelt lyrics about wanting a second chance at love resonated with millions. Even Robbie Williams, after leaving Take That, would perform a rockier version, highlighting the song’s enduring appeal and adaptability across genres. ‘Back for Good’ solidified Take That’s place as masters of the 90s ballad.
24. Bon Jovi – ‘Always’
‘Always’ by Bon Jovi became one of their most successful singles, demonstrating their ability to deliver powerful ballads alongside their rock anthems. Originally written for the soundtrack of the film Romeo Is Bleeding, Bon Jovi ultimately decided against its inclusion in the movie. This decision proved fortuitous as ‘Always’, once rediscovered, went on to sell 3 million copies worldwide in 1994. Jon Bon Jovi’s passionate vocals and the song’s epic, enduring love theme made it a stadium-ready 90s power ballad.
25. Aerosmith – ‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing’
‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing’ marked an unexpected but massively successful foray into ballads for veteran rockers Aerosmith. Featured in the 1998 film Armageddon, starring Steven Tyler’s daughter Liv Tyler, the song became Aerosmith’s biggest hit in the UK and introduced them to a new generation of fans. This power ballad, with Steven Tyler’s distinctive vocals and Diane Warren’s songwriting, proved that even rock legends could deliver chart-topping 90s love songs, expanding their appeal beyond their rock roots.
26. Robbie Williams – ‘Angels’
‘Angels’ is arguably Robbie Williams’ signature song and the track that revitalized his solo career in 1997. Despite only reaching number four in the UK charts, it became his best-selling single, achieving over a million sales. ‘Angels’ resonated deeply with audiences due to its spiritual undertones and Williams’ heartfelt performance. This ballad became a staple of radio airwaves and karaoke nights, solidifying its place as a timeless 90s love song and a career-defining hit for Robbie Williams.
27. Whitney Houston – ‘I Will Always Love You’
Whitney Houston’s rendition of ‘I Will Always Love You’ from The Bodyguard soundtrack is the ultimate 90s power ballad and one of the best-selling singles of all time. Originally written and performed by Dolly Parton, Kevin Costner suggested Houston cover it for the movie. Houston transformed the country song into a soaring vocal showcase, spending 14 weeks at number one in the US and 10 weeks in the UK in 1992. ‘I Will Always Love You’ is a masterclass in vocal performance and emotional delivery, defining the 90s ballad sound and cementing Whitney Houston’s legacy.
28. Celine Dion – ‘Think Twice’
‘Think Twice’ by Celine Dion is an often underrated but massively successful 90s ballad. Co-written by Andy Hill of Bucks Fizz and Peter Sinfield of King Crimson, an unlikely pairing, the song showcased Dion’s vocal power and dramatic delivery. Released in late 1994, it steadily climbed the UK charts, spending seven weeks at number one and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time in the UK. ‘Think Twice’ is a testament to Celine Dion’s ballad prowess and a reminder of the depth and range of 90s love songs.
29. Bryan Adams – ‘Everything I Do (I Do it for You)’
‘Everything I Do (I Do It For You)’ by Bryan Adams is synonymous with the early 1990s and holds the record for consecutive weeks at number one in the UK singles chart – a staggering 16 weeks. Written for the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, this power ballad became a global phenomenon in 1991. While some may have experienced ‘ballad fatigue’ due to its ubiquity, its enduring popularity demonstrates its resonance as a quintessential 90s love song, capturing the decade’s penchant for epic romantic anthems.
30. Seal – ‘Kiss from a Rose’
‘Kiss from a Rose’ by Seal is an unusual and enchanting power ballad that became his signature song and a defining 90s hit. Written in 1987, Seal initially felt “embarrassed” by it and shelved it. Producer Trevor Horn revived it for his Seal II album in 1994, and its inclusion on the Batman Forever soundtrack in 1995 catapulted it to global stardom. Seal’s distinctive vocals and the song’s mystical, romantic atmosphere made ‘Kiss from a Rose’ a unique and unforgettable 90s love song, proving that sometimes the most initially doubted creations can become the most celebrated.
In conclusion, the 1990s gifted us a treasure trove of love songs, each with its own story and unique charm. From heartfelt ballads to upbeat anthems, these songs explored the many facets of love and relationships, providing the soundtrack to a generation’s romantic moments. Rediscover these 1990s Love Songs and let the nostalgia and emotion wash over you, or create a playlist to share the magic of 90s romance with a new generation.
