The 1990s: a decade where music exploded in every direction. Turn on the radio, and you were instantly hit with a vibrant mix – grunge colliding with gangsta rap, dancehall rhythms next to disco beats, riot grrrl punk alongside the sugary sounds of TRL pop, and countless shades of electronica. It was a sonic boom, a time when every genre thrived, offering more music than any listener could possibly absorb. Trying to capture the essence of such a rich decade in a single list seems impossible – you could easily compile hundreds of amazing songs from just one summer in ’94. However, these 50 essential tracks aim to highlight the brilliant moments from across the 90s music revolution – from chart-topping hits to hidden gems, cult classics, dance floor anthems, guitar-driven rock, and karaoke staples. So, get ready to dive into a selection of Good 1990s Songs that continue to resonate today. Let the entertainment begin.
Fuzzy, “Flashlight” (1994)
Emerging from Boston’s vibrant music scene, Fuzzy was a band that, despite a brief stint, delivered pure gold with “Flashlight.” This quasi-grunge track features a melancholic female vocal, weaving somewhat cryptic lyrics about navigating through darkness with only a flashlight for guidance. Despite its brilliance, it remained largely undiscovered, except by those who tuned into MTV’s 120 Minutes during its less-watched hours. This song represents the numerous exceptional, almost-grunge tracks buried within major label albums from the post-Nirvana era, waiting to be unearthed. While few may reach this level of perfection, the search for such hidden treasures is always rewarding.
Britney Spears, “Sometimes” (1999)
Britney Spears Sometimes music video still, a good 1990s pop song
“Sometimes” was more than just Britney Spears’ second hit; it was her defining comeback single. After the explosive debut of “…Baby One More Time,” some questioned her staying power. However, “Sometimes,” a Total Request Live favorite, solidified her position as a pop icon and set the template for a new generation of pop stars. It signaled a shift, welcoming a fresh wave of pop music into the new millennium and proving Britney was not just a fleeting sensation, but a force to be reckoned with in the realm of good 1990s songs.
The Offspring, “Self Esteem” (1994)
The Offspring, hailing from Orange County’s hardcore scene, unexpectedly achieved mega-platinum status with “Self Esteem,” a catchy tune delving into themes of masochism. The line, “I may be dumb, but I’m not a dweeb,” still holds cultural relevance, particularly for those who identify with the song’s self-deprecating narrative. It’s an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt underestimated or walked the line between confidence and insecurity, making it a relatable and enduringly good 1990s song.
Selena, “Fotos y Recuerdos” (1994)
Selena in Fotos y Recuerdos music video, a popular 1990s Latin song
Selena, the beloved Queen of Tejano music, masterfully reinvented The Pretenders’ classic “Back on the Chain Gang” with “Fotos y Recuerdos.” Translated into Spanish, the song became a massive hit, reaching the Top Five on the Billboard Latin charts the very week of her tragic passing. This poignant track not only showcases her vocal talent and cross-cultural appeal but also stands as a lasting tribute to her influence on Latin music and her place among the good 1990s songs.
Silver Jews, “Random Rules” (1998)
Imagine a honky-tonk bar in hell, and “Random Rules” by Silver Jews is the last song playing as the night winds down. David Berman’s distinctively laconic vocals deliver fractured, barstool philosophy, creating a soundscape that’s both melancholic and darkly humorous. This track is a testament to the band’s unique indie rock sensibility and Berman’s lyrical prowess, making it a standout among good 1990s songs for its introspective and unconventional charm.
Lil Kim With Lil Cease, “Crush on You (Remix)” (1997)
Lil Kim in Crush on You music video, a classic 1990s hip hop song
“Crush on You (Remix)” is the quintessential Bad Boy Records anthem. Built around a hauntingly beautiful synth loop, featuring Lil Cease stepping up in Biggie’s shadow, and crowned by the indomitable Lil Kim. The Queen Bee’s bravado is on full display, showcasing her iconic style with wigs and furs. The call and response, “Shall I proceed?” “Yes, indeed!” perfectly encapsulates the track’s confident and playful energy, cementing its status as a good 1990s song in hip hop history.
Stereolab, “Cybele’s Reverie” (1996)
“Voulez vous coucher avec le revolution?” Stereolab, the European champions of vintage-keyboard aesthetics, consistently produced albums filled with rich, politically charged trance-prog music. “Cybele’s Reverie” stands out as a pinnacle of their discography. This track exemplifies their signature blend of hypnotic rhythms, retro-futuristic sounds, and socio-political undertones, making it a sophisticated and intellectually stimulating entry in the list of good 1990s songs.
Supergrass, “Alright” (1995)
Supergrass band in Alright music video, a popular 1990s Britpop song
Choosing just one song from the Clueless soundtrack is a challenge, much like deciphering the deeper meaning in a Pauly Shore film. Yet, “Alright” by Supergrass perfectly captures the youthful exuberance and carefree spirit of the 90s, especially as featured in the iconic movie. This Britpop gem is infectious, optimistic, and instantly recognizable, embodying the lighthearted side of the decade’s music and making it a good 1990s song for any upbeat playlist.
Ace of Base, “The Sign” (1994)
Ace of Base, the world-renowned Swedish reggae-pop band, achieved global success with “The Sign,” a mystical hit that, with lines like “Life is demanding/Without understanding,” reveals a charmingly non-native English speaker’s touch. It epitomizes the unique brand of Swedish reggae-infused pop that flourished in the 90s. This song’s quirky lyrics and catchy melody made it an international sensation and a memorable example of good 1990s songs that transcended linguistic boundaries.
Sophie B. Hawkins, “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” (1992)
Sophie B. Hawkins Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover promotional shot, a 1990s song about desire
Sophie B. Hawkins, the bohemian sex priestess, delivers a powerful and raw performance in “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover,” lamenting unrequited desire. The word “damn” in her delivery carries an emotional weight, expressing longing and frustration with visceral intensity. This song is a bold and sensual exploration of yearning, showcasing Hawkins’ vocal prowess and making it a standout among good 1990s songs that explore themes of love and longing.
Big Pun Feat. Joe, “Still Not a Player” (1998)
Representing Uptown, Bronx, the late, great Big Pun teams up with R&B crooner Joe in “Still Not a Player.” Set against a backdrop of smooth, lovers-rock piano, they woo “highly intelligent bachelorettes” with a pan-cultural party vibe (“boricua, morena“) and suggestive lyrics. This track is a perfect blend of hip hop bravado and R&B smoothness, showcasing Big Pun’s lyrical dexterity and charisma. It’s a celebratory and seductive anthem, rightfully earning its place among good 1990s songs. R.I.P., Pun – forever remembered as more than just a player, but a legend.
Sebadoh, “Brand New Love” (1992)
Sebadoh band promotional image, known for 1990s indie rock songs
Sebadoh, the punk-rooted indie rockers, took a significant step towards emotional openness with “Brand New Love.” This folk-infused ballad, punctuated by feedback, is about shedding cynicism and embracing new, potentially daunting feelings, like smiling at someone across the room. It marks a moment of vulnerability and growth for the band, blending raw emotion with their signature lo-fi sound, and stands as a genuinely touching good 1990s song.
Geto Boys, “Mind Playing Tricks on Me” (1991)
“Mind Playing Tricks on Me” by Geto Boys is arguably the most chilling gangsta rap narrative ever recorded. The song culminates in Willie D’s raw emotion, pounding his bloodied fists on concrete, all set to a backdrop of a cold jazz-fusion loop. This track is a stark portrayal of paranoia and the psychological toll of street life, its haunting atmosphere and vivid storytelling making it an unforgettable and intensely powerful good 1990s song.
New Radicals, “You Get What You Give” (1998)
New Radicals band in You Get What You Give music video, a one-hit wonder 1990s song
New Radicals’ “You Get What You Give” is the epitome of a one-hit wonder, but what a hit it was. This gloriously anthemic song, complete with its iconic bucket hat and mall-riot themed video, delivers a powerful message of optimism and defiance, even throwing playful jabs at Beck, Hanson, Courtney Love, and Marilyn Manson. Despite their brief time in the spotlight, this track remains a timeless feel-good anthem and a definitive good 1990s song. The New Radicals frontman later received an Oscar nomination for Begin Again in 2015, though sadly, the bucket hat remained absent from the red carpet.
Portishead, “Glory Box” (1994)
Portishead’s “Glory Box” defines elegant trip-hop melancholy. Beth Gibbons’s soulful vocals, drenched in sorrow, intertwine with a timeless sample of Isaac Hayes’s cheeba-zonked funk from the 70s. This sample was notably revived in 2015 by Alessia Cara, who wasn’t even born when “Glory Box” first captivated listeners. This song’s smoky, cinematic atmosphere and Gibbons’s captivating voice make it a cornerstone of trip-hop and a profoundly good 1990s song.
Sheryl Crow, “If It Makes You Happy” (1996)
Sheryl Crow performing If It Makes You Happy, a popular 1990s rock song
Sheryl Crow won hearts instantly with the line about “scraping the mold off the bread” in “If It Makes You Happy.” It’s the quintessential 90s vision of rock & roll stoner ennui, delivered with Crow’s signature blend of laid-back cool and sharp wit. This song perfectly captures the slacker spirit of the decade while offering a catchy, radio-friendly rock sound, solidifying its place as a good 1990s song.
En Vogue, “Don’t Let Go (Love)” (1996)
En Vogue, the supreme divas of funk, delivered their steamiest slow jam with “Don’t Let Go (Love),” exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and soul-stirring emotion. The song’s highlight is undoubtedly the line: “If I could wear your clothes… I’d pretend I was you… and looooose controoool!” This track showcases their vocal harmonies and emotional depth, making it a powerful and sensual addition to the list of good 1990s songs.
Helium, “XXX” (1994)
Mary Timony of Helium performing live, known for 1990s indie songs
Guitar virtuoso Mary Timony, later of Wild Flag and Ex Hex, fronts Helium and croons sweetly in “XXX,” but with a deadly edge. The lyrics warn of fatal consequences for street harassment – her guitar, she sings, will be the weapon. True to her word, the guitar unleashes sonic fury as Timony delivers hilariously deadpan kiss-off lines: “My heart is a cab…your love is a fad…and you’re a draaag!” This song blends indie rock charm with a darkly humorous and assertive message, making it a uniquely good 1990s song.
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, “Don’t shake your sassy ass in front of me” in “I’ll Be.” Jay-Z, fresh on the scene with Reasonable Doubt, demonstrated his mastery with this hit featuring his teen protégé, Foxy Brown. This collaboration was just one of many moves that cemented his early dominance. Few could have predicted his decades-long reign at the top, but “I’ll Be” is an early example of his and Foxy Brown’s star power, making it a significant good 1990s song.
Underworld, “Born Slippy .Nuxx” (1996)
Underworld performing live, known for 1990s electronic dance songs
“Born Slippy .Nuxx” by Underworld is a sonic explosion of techno sensory overload. Its mass appeal surged after being featured in Trainspotting, propelled by the unforgettable “lager lager lager lager” chant. However, judging by its intense sound, lager might be one of the milder substances not involved in its creation. This track is an iconic piece of 90s electronic music, its frenetic energy and cultural impact securing its place among good 1990s songs.
Sir Mix-A-Lot, “Baby Got Back” (1992)
“Baby Got Back,” of butt of course! Almost everyone in the English-speaking world can quote lines from this pro-curves anthem by Sir Mix-A-Lot. This track celebrated and normalized diverse body types, challenging conventional beauty standards with humor and infectious beats. Its cultural impact is undeniable, making it a groundbreaking and undeniably good 1990s song.
Fiona Apple, “Paper Bag” (1999)
Fiona Apple in Paper Bag music video, a poignant 1990s song
Fiona Apple’s “Paper Bag” poignantly captures the disillusionment of realizing a romantic interest is less mature than hoped. “She thought he was a man, but he was just a little boy,” encapsulates the song’s theme of unmet expectations in love. Apple’s raw emotion and lyrical depth make this track a standout, showcasing her unique artistry and solidifying its status as a deeply resonant good 1990s song.
Weezer, “Pink Triangle” (1996)
Years before “overshare” became common vernacular (popularized around the Kirsten Dunst movie Bring It On), Rivers Cuomo of Weezer took the concept to a new level with “Pink Triangle.” This love song is the very definition of straight-dude cluelessness, delivered with Weezer’s signature blend of catchy melodies and self-deprecating humor. While Cuomo might have seen himself on par with Nirvana, he humorously acknowledges his own shortcomings in love and life through this undeniably good 1990s song.
Daft Punk, “Around the World” (1997)
Daft Punk performing live in helmets, known for 1990s electronic songs
Daft Punk, the enigmatic French techno robots, took the Chic “Good Times” bass line on an interstellar journey with “Around the World.” Their signature filter-house sound, prominently featured in this track, launched countless imitators and defined a soundscape for a generation. Repetitive yet hypnotic, “Around the World” is a landmark in electronic music and a quintessential good 1990s song.
Natalie Imbruglia, “Torn” (1998)
There’s karaoke, and then there’s “Torn” karaoke. For karaoke enthusiasts, 1998 remains a golden summer, largely thanks to Natalie Imbruglia’s “Torn.” Still an epic tear-jerker, the song’s emotional intensity is somewhat ironically juxtaposed with the fact that Imbruglia, considering her celebrity romances, hardly needs anyone’s shoulder to cry on. Regardless, “Torn” remains a karaoke classic and a beloved good 1990s song for its emotional resonance and sing-along appeal.
Harvey Danger, “Flagpole Sitta” (1998)
Harvey Danger performing live, known for 1990s alternative rock songs
Similar to “Torn,” there’s karaoke, and then there’s “Flagpole Sitta” karaoke. Harvey Danger’s anthem perfectly encapsulates the 90s with lines like “I wanna publish zines and rage against machines.” The line “I don’t even own a TV” became a cliché hipsters quickly abandoned as the decade ended. “Flagpole Sitta” is an ironic and insightful snapshot of 90s counter-culture, making it a sharply observant and good 1990s song.
Aaliyah, “Are You That Somebody” (1998)
“Are You That Somebody” is one of Timbaland’s most avant-garde productions, yet Aaliyah effortlessly transforms it into mainstream pop brilliance with her cool-as-ice vocals. The track’s innovative soundscapes and Aaliyah’s smooth delivery created a unique and unforgettable sound. This song is a testament to their combined genius and remains a pioneering and undeniably good 1990s song.
Oasis, “Wonderwall” (1995)
Oasis band performing live, known for Britpop 1990s songs
Noel Gallagher later confessed he had no clue what a “Wonderwall” actually was. Neither did anyone else. But meaning didn’t matter then, nor does it now. “Wonderwall” by Oasis possesses a magical quality, instantly turning any space into a boisterous, slightly off-key pub singalong. This anthemic Britpop ballad is beloved for its emotional depth and communal spirit, making it a universally recognized and good 1990s song.
Mobb Deep, “Shook Ones Pt. II” (1995)
Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones Pt. II” is the hip-hop equivalent of “Gimme Shelter.” Queensbridge duo Prodigy and Havoc paint a stark picture of urban survival where vulnerability, even for a moment, can be fatal because “there ain’t no such thing as halfway crooks.” Mobb Deep stood as the grittiest of the mid-90s East Coast hip hop crews, and their signature hit remains as chilling and impactful today, cementing its legacy as a good 1990s song.
Smashing Pumpkins, “1979” (1995)
Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins performing live, known for 1990s alternative rock songs
Billy Corgan’s “1979” is an ode to the bittersweet pangs of a generic suburban Midwestern adolescent summer. Built around James Iha’s shimmering guitar hook, the song even won over Corgan skeptics. Famously covered by Pavement, “1979” captures a sense of fleeting youth and nostalgia. “Faster than the speed of sound, faster than we thought we’d go,” the lyrics resonate with anyone who’s felt the rush and melancholy of growing up, making it a powerfully evocative and good 1990s song.
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 the 90s). “Loser” arrived with a bluesy riff, a beatbox rhythm, a leaf blower, and a video playfully infringing on George Lucas’s copyrights. This track is a slacker anthem, blending irony, musical eclecticism, and cultural commentary, making it a uniquely defining and good 1990s song. Praise the gods and pass the Cheez Whiz.
Whitney Houston Feat. Faith Evans and Kelly Price, “Heartbreak Hotel” (1998)
Whitney Houston performing live, known for iconic 1990s R&B songs
In “Heartbreak Hotel,” Whitney Houston, joined by Faith Evans and Kelly Price, dismisses a trifling love interest. Her voice escalates from casual dismissal to soaring, powerful high notes, a sweet revenge served musically. At the time, it felt like the dawn of a new era for Whitney, a reinvention. Tragically, it marked a poignant turning point. Nonetheless, “Heartbreak Hotel” remains a testament to her vocal prowess and emotional depth, a powerfully good 1990s song.
Garbage, “Queer” (1995)
Shirley Manson’s haunting vocals in Garbage’s “Queer” meet alt-rock super-producer Butch Vig’s polished studio effects, whispering, “You can touch me if you want/But you can’t stop.” Manson’s voice is both alluring and unsettling, getting under your skin and staying there. “Queer” is dark, seductive, and sonically innovative, defining Garbage’s unique sound and making it a compellingly good 1990s song.
Beastie Boys, “Sure Shot” (1994)
Beastie Boys band performing live, known for 1990s hip hop songs
The Beastie Boys flex their intellectual and musical muscles in “Sure Shot,” with Adam Yauch’s shout-out “to all the mothers and the sisters and the wives and friends.” This track embodies their signature blend of humor, intelligence, and funky beats. “Sure Shot” is a celebration of their enduring appeal and a reminder that you can’t, you won’t, and you don’t stop the Beastie Boys, making it a timelessly good 1990s song.
Sleater-Kinney, “Get Up” (1999)
Sleater-Kinney, the punk goddesses from Portland, perfectly capture the feeling of isolation and defiance in “Get Up.” The guitars sound like a constellation of stars exploding into the universe, raw and powerful. This song is an anthem for resilience, refusing to be silenced or ignored, even when feeling lost. It’s a potent and fiercely energetic good 1990s song.
Outkast, “Rosa Parks” (1998)
Outkast performing live, known for innovative 1990s hip hop songs
Outkast’s “Rosa Parks” is the definitive Dirty South booty-shaking jam of the decade, complete with the harmonica solo of the decade (apologies, Blues Traveler!). This track introduced much of the country to Big Boi and André 3000’s unique sound brewing in ATLien nation. It also popularized the term “crunk.” “Rosa Parks” is funky, innovative, and still sounds audaciously fresh, an undeniably good 1990s song.
R.E.M. “Nightswimming” (1992)
Unthinkable in 1989: R.E.M.’s best albums were still ahead, with four stone-cold classics on the horizon. And Michael Stipe would slow-dance with Natalie Merchant at a Democratic presidential inauguration. “Nightswimming” is a bittersweet piano reverie, evoking skinny-dipping in Georgia pines, with Stipe attempting to preserve fleeting memories before they’re lost to the everyday. This song is beautifully nostalgic and melancholic, a poignant and good 1990s song.
Ol’ Dirty Bastard, “Brooklyn Zoo” (1995)
Ol' Dirty Bastard performing live, a unique voice in 1990s hip hop
The Wu-Tang Clan universe was designed for album-length true mathematics, but “Brooklyn Zoo” by Ol’ Dirty Bastard was their most successful and humorous attempt at radio airplay. ODB, aka Big Baby Jesus, shimmies all over RZA’s broken piano keys. Proof that Wu-Tang is, indeed, for the children. This track is chaotic, hilarious, and undeniably catchy, showcasing ODB’s unique personality and making it a good 1990s song.
The Breeders, “Cannonball” (1993)
Kim Deal, post-Pixies alt-rock legend, emerges with her twin sister Kelley in The Breeders, creating a wonderfully messy, big-hearted song in “Cannonball.” It became one of the most wonderfully weird radio hits of the 90s – or any decade. “Cannonball” is quirky, catchy, and utterly unique, capturing the essence of 90s alternative and standing as a truly good 1990s song.
Hole, “Doll Parts” (1994)
Courtney Love of Hole performing live, known for 1990s alternative rock songs
“Doll Parts” is arguably Courtney Love’s finest moment. It evokes a raw, visceral emotion – the kind that might make your mom put this song on and cry alone in the car. “Doll Parts” is intensely personal and emotionally resonant, a powerful expression of vulnerability and pain, making it a deeply affecting and good 1990s song. Someday, you will ache like she aches.
TLC, “No Scrubs” (1999)
Oh yes, son, TLC is talking directly to you in “No Scrubs.” The crazy-sexy-cool Atlanta trio closed out the decade they dominated with this hilarious and sharp-tongued rant targeting street harassment and much more. “No Scrubs” is empowering, witty, and fiercely independent, a defining anthem of female agency in the 90s and an undeniably good 1990s song. Burn on, Left Eye.
Liz Phair, “Fuck and Run” (1993)
Liz Phair performing live, known for candid 1990s indie rock songs
Believe it or not, we thought we had problems back in 1993. Liz Phair, in “Fuck and Run,” testifies about disposable relationships with a plainspoken voice that cuts straight to the heart. The song’s unfortunate narrative of emotional exploitation remains timelessly relevant. “Fuck and Run” is brutally honest and emotionally raw, capturing a common experience with unflinching candor, and is a powerfully good 1990s song. Same old story: Boys only want love if it’s torture.
Pulp, “Common People” (1995)
Jarvis Cocker of Pulp has more soul and swagger in a single exhale of cigarette 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 track is witty, insightful, and irresistibly catchy, a quintessential Britpop anthem and a truly good 1990s song.
Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott, ”The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” (1997)
Missy Elliott in The Rain music video, an iconic 1990s hip hop song
“The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” introduced Missy Elliott and Timbaland, the duo who arguably defined the sound of the late 90s. Together, they warped a 70s R&B sample into a long, sultry Southern night, complete with chirping crickets and approaching storm clouds. “The Rain” is sonically groundbreaking and visually stunning, marking the arrival of two major forces in music and standing as an exceptionally good 1990s song. Oh, Missy, try to maintain.
Pavement, “Gold Soundz” (1994)
Pavement’s “Gold Soundz” packs all the boyish heart-on-sleeve urgency of Pet Sounds into just three minutes. Stephen Malkmus and his slacker crew waste not a second; every guitar twang, every mumbled breath contributes to a note-perfect emotional surge. “Gold Soundz” is both chaotic and meticulously crafted, capturing the essence of indie rock and remaining a profoundly good 1990s song. Almost like they care or something.
Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” (1992)
Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg in Nuthin But a G Thang music video, a defining 1990s hip hop song
Dr. Dre, already a legend from N.W.A., returned mightier than ever in “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang,” with significant help from the fresh talent of Snoop Dogg. This groove makes any car bounce, with a bassline as authentic as “Real Deal” Holyfield. “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is a West Coast hip hop masterpiece, launching Snoop Dogg’s career and solidifying Dr. Dre’s iconic status, an undeniably good 1990s song.
Bikini Kill, “Rebel Girl” (1993)
Bikini Kill, three riot grrrls led by Kathleen Hanna and their token male guitarist, teamed up with Joan Jett in the studio 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. It’s rock & roll with political and emotional muscle – how truly bizarre and brilliant. This song is a defining moment for riot grrrl and a fiercely empowering good 1990s song.
Notorious B.I.G. With Mase and Puff Daddy, “Mo Money Mo Problems” (1997)
Notorious BIG in Mo Money Mo Problems music video, an iconic 1990s hip hop song
The late, great Notorious B.I.G. displayed more soul and swagger just clearing his throat before his verse in “Mo Money Mo Problems” than most rappers manage in entire careers. This track became an unintended epitaph, reaching Number One posthumously, yet making him sound incredibly alive. “Mo Money Mo Problems” is a classic of 90s hip hop, showcasing Biggie’s charisma and lyrical genius, and remains a bittersweetly good 1990s song. Burning question: Did Mase ever see his name on a blimp?
Blackstreet, “No Diggity” (1996)
“No Diggity” by Blackstreet is a utopian celebration of the rump-shaking essence of American music. Teddy Riley, blending doo-wop, Dr. Dre influences, old-school R&B harmonies, piano rumbles, and a Bill Withers blues guitar sample, created a groundbreaking track. We’re living in the future this song envisioned, and all the better for it. “No Diggity” is a genre-bending masterpiece of 90s R&B and a universally loved and good 1990s song.
Nirvana, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (1991)
Nirvana performing live, creators of the iconic 1990s grunge song Smells Like Teen Spirit
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is the song that detonated across the globe. It defied every rule of music, packing raw emotion into four simple chords and a rough guitar solo. It was a sonic kick to the face of complacency, challenging acceptance of the status quo. Kurt Cobain’s challenge to his audience in “Smells Like Teen Spirit” still resonates today. This track is more than just a song; it’s a cultural earthquake, the quintessential good 1990s song, and a timeless anthem of rebellion and change.
These 50 songs offer just a glimpse into the vast and diverse musical landscape of the 1990s. From grunge to hip-hop, pop to electronic, the decade was a melting pot of genres and styles, each leaving an indelible mark on music history. Explore these tracks and delve deeper into the sounds of the 90s – a decade that continues to inspire and resonate with music lovers today.
