The 1990s – a decade of grunge, boy bands, and some of the most iconic music of all time. For those who grew up during this era, the memories of cassette tapes, CDs, and MTV playing music videos 24/7 are still etched in their minds. And for those over 50, there are some songs that will never be forgotten, transcending generations and continuing to be enjoyed by new fans today. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and explore 15 classic songs of the 90s that will live on forever.
1. Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (1991)
The anthem of a generation, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” revolutionized the music scene with its raw energy and memorable guitar riffs. Kurt Cobain’s distinctive vocals and the song’s catchy chorus made it an instant classic.
2. Spice Girls – Wannabe (1996)
The ultimate girl power anthem, “Wannabe” launched the Spice Girls into global superstardom. With its catchy melody, infectious beat, and empowering lyrics, this song remains a fan favorite to this day.
3. Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (1999)
One of the biggest boy bands of the 90s, the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way” is a timeless ballad that showcases the group’s harmonious vocals and sentimental lyrics.
4. Mariah Carey – Vision of Love (1990)
Mariah Carey’s debut single, “Vision of Love,” introduced the world to her impressive vocal range and signature whistle register. This song’s success paved the way for her future chart-topping hits.
5. Oasis – Wonderwall (1995)
A Britpop classic, “Wonderwall” is one of Oasis’s most beloved songs. With its catchy guitar riff, memorable lyrics, and Liam Gallagher’s distinctive vocals, this song has become an anthem for generations.
6. Celine Dion – My Heart Will Go On (1997)
The theme song from the movie Titanic, “My Heart Will Go On” is a powerful ballad that showcases Celine Dion’s incredible vocal range and emotional delivery. This song’s timeless beauty has made it a classic of the 90s.
7. Radiohead – Creep (1992)
A hauntingly beautiful song, “Creep” is a standout track from Radiohead’s debut album. With its introspective lyrics, soaring vocals, and memorable guitar riffs, this song has become a staple of 90s alternative rock.
8. Boyz II Men – End of the Road (1992)
A soulful ballad, “End of the Road” is one of Boyz II Men’s most popular songs. With its rich harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and Wanya Morris’s smooth vocals, this song has become a classic of 90s R&B.
9. Ace of Base – The Sign (1993)
A catchy and upbeat song, “The Sign” is a quintessential 90s pop hit. With its reggae-inspired beat, memorable hooks, and Jenny Berggren’s distinctive vocals, this song has become a staple of 90s dance parties.
10. Foo Fighters – Everlong (1997)
A grunge classic, “Everlong” is one of Foo Fighters’ most beloved songs. With its heavy guitar riffs, catchy chorus, and Dave Grohl’s distinctive vocals, this song has become an anthem for rock fans around the world.
11. Alanis Morissette – You Oughta Know (1995)
A fiery and introspective song, “You Oughta Know” is a standout track from Alanis Morissette’s iconic album Jagged Little Pill. With its raw energy, memorable lyrics, and Alanis’s powerful vocals, this song has become a classic of 90s alternative rock.
12. Savage Garden – I Knew I Loved You (1999)
A romantic ballad, “I Knew I Loved You” is a beautiful song that showcases Savage Garden’s harmonious vocals and sentimental lyrics. This song’s catchy melody and soaring chorus have made it a fan favorite.
13. No Doubt – Don’t Speak (1995)
A ska-infused pop hit, “Don’t Speak” is one of No Doubt’s most popular songs. With its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and Gwen Stefani’s distinctive vocals, this song has become a classic of 90s pop rock.
14. Weezer – Buddy Holly (1994)
A geeky and catchy song, “Buddy Holly” is a standout track from Weezer’s self-titled debut album. With its power pop sound, memorable hooks, and Rivers Cuomo’s distinctive vocals, this song has become a classic of 90s alt rock.
15. Tupac Shakur – Changes (1998)
A powerful and thought-provoking song, “Changes” is a classic hip-hop track that showcases Tupac Shakur’s storytelling ability and social commentary. With its catchy beat, memorable lyrics, and Tupac’s emotional delivery, this song has become a timeless classic of 90s hip-hop.
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