![[Back to the '90s!] Dance Music from Western Hits of the 1990s](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/gJLIiF15wjQ/maxresdefault.webp)
[Back to the ’90s!] Dance music in Western pop that was a hit in the 1990s
The 1990s were a period in which electronic music saw remarkable growth compared to any previous era.
Genres like Eurobeat and dance-pop attracted particular attention and went on to influence modern styles such as artcore and deep house.
In this piece, I’d like to introduce dance music from the 1990s.
Alongside global smash hits, I’ve also included more niche tracks with a Eurobeat flavor.
For those interested in the evolution of electronic music, there are many must-hear tracks here, so please take your time and enjoy.
[Back to the ’90s!] Western dance music hits from the 1990s (1–10)
WannabeSpice Girls
For those who spent their youth in the 1990s, “Wannabe” may be a song that brings back memories.
This track is an iconic work by the British girl group the Spice Girls and still enjoys enduring popularity today.
Overall it’s a refreshing pop song, but part of its appeal lies in the touches of Black music woven into the melody here and there.
It also works great as dance music, so be sure to give it a listen.
No DiggityBlackstreet
If you’re looking for an insanely dope track, I recommend No Diggity.
For anyone who grew up on ’90s US hip-hop and R&B, Blackstreet is essential.
To put their musical style simply, they’re like a department store that’s got everything—from hip-hop to soul to R&B.
Their catchy melodies stand out, especially in contrast to D’Angelo, who was active around the same time.
It’s catchy yet undeniably sophisticated, so if you love Black music, definitely give it a listen!
Black Or WhiteMichael Jackson
When it comes to iconic dance music from the ’90s, this song by Michael Jackson stands out.
Its lyrics, carrying a message of unity and equality that transcends racial and cultural differences, are particularly memorable.
The unique sound—blending pop rock, dance, and hip-hop—brought a fresh breeze to the music scene of the time.
Released in 1991, the track spent seven consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Its music video captivated as many as 500 million viewers worldwide, opening up new possibilities for the medium.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the power of music to connect people across racial and cultural boundaries.
No ScrubsTLC
It’s a smooth mid-tempo track released in 1999 by the American girl group TLC.
It reached the top 10 on charts around the world and was nominated for a Grammy.
It was sampled in Todd Edwards’s 2006 track of the same name.
Its catchy melody gives the song a refreshing feel.
Pump Up The JamTechnotronic
The 1990s saw remarkable growth in electronic music.
Among the global breakout acts of the era was Technotronic, a Belgian house music project.
Their signature track delivers a powerful, dance-floor-igniting message.
With its energetic rhythm and catchy phrases, it has left a strong impression and has dominated charts in many countries since its 1989 release.
It’s been frequently used in films and TV shows, underscoring its influence.
It’s the perfect song for times when you want to boost your energy, like at parties or during workouts.
It’s also recommended for anyone looking to explore the history of dance music.
U Can’t Touch ThisMC Hammer
A quintessential hip-hop anthem of the ’90s, “U Can’t Touch This.” Many of you probably recognize its distinctive track.
Even among the hip-hop of its time, this song was quite an outlier, with a strong emphasis on dance music unlike typical hip-hop.
As a result, it’s sampled more often in electronic genres like house and techno than in hip-hop.
BelieveCher
Cher is a singer who gained popularity with a musical style centered on genres like pop disco and dance folk.
Since she is also active as an actress, many people may know her from films as well.
One of her signature works is Believe.
Her rich, robust vocal tone and pop-disco-centered sound are irresistibly upbeat, resulting in catchy melodies throughout.
If you like Eurobeat or Europop, be sure to give it a listen.