Des'ree in the music video for You Gotta Be, exuding strength and confidence
I vividly recall the first time I encountered Alanis Morissette through her music video for You Oughta Know. The raw energy was palpable, even through the screen. Her long, dark hair and somewhat blurred image didn’t diminish the sheer force of her anger. It resonated in her powerful voice, her unrestrained movements, and the fiercely honest lyrics directed at a former lover. As a young girl, this was impactful. I hadn’t witnessed such unfiltered female rage and strength so openly displayed. Watching Alanis in that desert landscape, embodying simmering fury, was incredibly empowering. It was a moment of realization – music could be a potent source of female empowerment.
This feeling extends to many feminist anthems, particularly those that permeated the cultural consciousness of women. From Chaka Khan’s celebratory I’m Every Woman to Christina Aguilera’s defiant Fighter and Sia’s resilient Titanium, certain songs have the power to ignite a sense of feminist strength within. However, there’s an undeniable resonance to that initial Alanis track and many others that emerged in the 1990s. Perhaps it’s linked to personal development during that era of youthful innocence, but the Songs About Women Empowerment that blossomed in the 90s hold a unique and irreplaceable significance.
Therefore, I want to share a curated list of powerful female anthems from the 90s. These are the tracks to turn to when you need a surge of strength, songs that will genuinely make you want to raise your fists in the air and celebrate female resilience.
Bitch – Meredith Brooks
Before this song, the term “bitch” was exclusively negative, a derogatory label for women who were assertive or independent. Meredith Brooks’ “Bitch” boldly reclaims this insult, transforming it into a powerful declaration of multifaceted womanhood. The song embraces complexity, acknowledging that women can be strong and vulnerable, assertive and sensitive. This anthem empowers women to own their contradictions and reject simplistic labels, celebrating the full spectrum of female identity. It’s a defiant mantra that redefines a slur into a badge of honor.
Strong Enough – Sheryl Crow
“Strong Enough” by Sheryl Crow is a raw and honest ballad that explores vulnerability within strength. It delves into the complexities of relationships and the courage it takes to ask for emotional support while maintaining personal power. The song’s power lies in its honesty; it acknowledges that strength isn’t about being impenetrable, but about having the courage to be vulnerable and to seek genuine connection. It resonates with the quiet strength found in emotional honesty and self-awareness.
Hold On – Wilson Phillips
“Hold On” by Wilson Phillips transcends the ballad category; it’s a full-fledged anthem for persevering through life’s challenges. With its uplifting melody and empowering lyrics like, “no one can change your life except for you, don’t ever let anyone step all over you,” this song is a potent dose of self-reliance. It encourages listeners to take control of their own destinies, to find inner strength, and to never surrender to adversity. It’s a burst of pure motivational energy set to music, reminding every woman of her inherent resilience.
Man! I Feel Like a Woman – Shania Twain
Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” is pure, unadulterated fun with a feminist twist. Beyond its catchy tune and iconic top-hat-and-tails music video featuring male dancers, the song playfully flips traditional gender roles. It’s about female desire and agency, celebrating women’s right to express their desires and embrace traditionally masculine roles without judgment. By subverting gender norms with humor and confidence, Twain delivers an empowering message about freedom and breaking societal expectations.
Torn – Natalie Imbruglia
Natalie Imbruglia’s “Torn” is an anthem of emotional exposure and honesty. It’s about confronting raw feelings and the courage it takes to be vulnerable. The song’s empowering quality comes from its validation of difficult emotions – feeling used, unhappy, or exposed. It creates a space for women to acknowledge and express their pain, finding strength in the act of sharing their truth and feeling understood. It’s a reminder that vulnerability is not weakness, but a crucial aspect of emotional strength.
Talkin’ About A Revolution – Tracy Chapman
Although released in 1988, Tracy Chapman’s “Talkin’ About A Revolution” became a 90s anthem for many. While specifically addressing poverty and social inequality, its core message of revolution resonates powerfully with feminist ideals. The song inspires listeners to stand up, challenge the status quo, and fight for a better world. It’s a call to action, encouraging women to find their voice and participate in movements for social change, reminding them of their collective power to drive revolution in all its forms.
What’s Up – 4 Non Blondes
“What’s Up” by 4 Non Blondes is an unapologetic call to self-expression. From Linda Perry’s grunge aesthetic to the song’s soaring vocals, it’s about refusing to be silenced. The track empowers women to use their voices, to scream their truths, and to not hold back their opinions or emotions. It’s a powerful reminder that every voice matters and that speaking out is an act of strength and self-affirmation.
Wannabe – Spice Girls
The Spice Girls and their mantra of “Girl Power” dominated the 90s, and “Wannabe” is their defining anthem. This song is about female friendship, solidarity, and demanding respect in relationships. It celebrates the power of female bonds and prioritizes the importance of girlfriends. “Wannabe” empowers women to value their friendships, to support each other, and to unapologetically prioritize their own needs and desires in any relationship dynamic.
Criminal – Fiona Apple
Fiona Apple’s “Criminal” is provocative and sensual, exploring themes of transgression and confession. Despite the lyrics detailing questionable actions, the song is empowering due to Apple’s unflinching frankness and outspoken nature. She owns her narrative, even in imperfection, and reclaims agency over her sexuality and choices. “Criminal” empowers women to embrace their complexities, to own their stories without shame, and to find strength in their own truth, however flawed it may seem.
Just A Girl – No Doubt
“Just A Girl” by No Doubt, fronted by Gwen Stefani, immediately grabs attention with the line, “take this pink ribbon off my eyes.” The song sarcastically dismantles belittling phrases and societal expectations imposed on women. It’s filled with tired sarcasm and simmering anger at the limitations placed upon women simply because of their gender. “Just A Girl” empowers women to recognize and reject these limiting stereotypes, to voice their frustration, and to demand to be seen as more than just a girl.
Stay (I Missed You) – Lisa Loeb
Lisa Loeb’s “Stay (I Missed You)” might seem like a simple love song, but it’s deeply empowering in its exploration of relationship problems and emotional longing. The power lies in the act of articulating these complex feelings. By openly singing about the struggles within a relationship, Loeb validates the listener’s own experiences and demonstrates the strength found in emotional expression and seeking understanding. It’s a quiet empowerment found in honesty and vulnerability in relationships.
You Gotta Be – Des’ree
Des’ree’s “You Gotta Be” is pure, unadulterated inspirational wisdom set to music. Presented as a list of essential qualities for navigating life, the song offers guidance and encouragement to women facing any challenge. It’s a timeless anthem of self-belief, urging women to be bold, strong, wise, and tough, yet also kind, funny, cool, and righteous. “You Gotta Be” provides a sonic toolkit for inner strength and grace, constantly uplifting and moving listeners with its positive affirmations. And indeed, Des’ree herself embodies beauty and strength in the song’s music video.
These 90s feminist power ballads continue to resonate deeply. They are more than just songs; they are cultural touchstones that fueled a generation and continue to inspire women today.
Did I overlook any essential 90s anthems that ignite your inner strength? Share your favorites in the comments below! And for an extra dose of female empowerment, revisit Sisters Are Doing it For Themselves by The Eurythmics featuring Aretha Franklin – a late 80s gem that perfectly complements this 90s playlist! While Melissa Etheridge didn’t make this particular list, her contributions to powerful female music are certainly acknowledged!
