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[1990s] Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers in Western Music
The Western music scene of the 1990s was a transformative era, with bands and artists labeled as grunge and alternative rock overturning conventional hit-chart norms, while club music saw a steady stream of hits emerging from new genres like hip-hop and neo-soul.
This time, we’re focusing on female singers who, amid that turbulent scene, used their unique styles and talents to profoundly influence later generations of artists, presenting a diverse lineup that cuts across genres.
Alongside artists who debuted in the ’90s, we’re also featuring those active since the ’80s.
Enjoy the voices of the female singers who defined the vibrant landscape of the 1990s—a decade that has been receiving renewed appreciation in recent years!
90s Edition: Still Shining! Recommended Female Singers in Western Music (1–10)
If It Makes You HappySheryl Crow
When discussing 90s country music, Sheryl Crow is indispensable.
She has a rather unusual background—after entering university, she worked as a teacher.
However, as she devoted her weekends to making music, she began attracting attention and eventually made her debut.
Her appeal lies in her husky voice and powerful singing.
Just one listen and you’ll understand how incredible she is.
There’s also a documentary film about her, so if you’re interested, definitely check it out.
FantasyMariah Carey
Mariah Carey, the global songstress.
Even people who don’t usually listen to Western pop music probably know who she is.
Mariah Carey has created many pop songs rooted in R&B, and they often give a bright, blissful impression.
An essential part of conveying her appeal is that she possesses a seven-octave vocal range.
To show just how incredible that is, she’s even recognized by the Guinness World Records as having the highest voice.
First, give her songs a listen and enjoy that amazing voice.
If Your Girl Only KnewAaliyah
Aaliyah is an R&B singer from the United States.
She is of African American and Native American descent, and her unique, exotic aura is truly captivating.
Her signature songs include Try Again (2000) and Miss You (2002), and her smooth, laid-back vocal flow is incredibly soothing.
Try playing her music as background music in your room and immerse yourself in her charm!
Doo-Wop (That Thing)Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill was the artist who brought widespread attention to the then-rare presence of female rappers.
She began her music career in her first year of high school, studying the flows and rhymes of male rappers while establishing her own style.
She also ventured into acting, appearing in numerous works.
As her popularity grew, she won her first Grammy in 1996 as a member of the Fugees, and has earned a total of seven Grammys since.
She’s an artist you should definitely check out, especially from the perspective of understanding hip-hop history.
If You Had My LoveJennifer Lopez
One of the defining artists of the 1990s is Jennifer Lopez.
As many people know, she has also been active as an actress and has appeared in a variety of acclaimed works.
Surprisingly, she began her full-fledged music career relatively late, in 1999.
However, because her debut album On the 6 became a massive hit, she left a strong impression as a 1990s artist.
Why not start by listening to that album first?
Army Of MeBjörk
Björk is a singer who represents Iceland and one of the defining artists of the 1990s.
She made her debut in 1977, when she was 12 years old.
She was very active from the start, but in the 1990s she scored a string of additional hits.
She is also known for visiting Japan in 1990 and for winning the British music award, the Brit Awards, in 1994.
If you remember those days, it can be fun to listen while reminiscing.
Estoy AquíShakira
When it comes to Latin pop singers who have been active since the ’90s, the first name that likely comes to mind is Shakira.
Hailing from Colombia, she captivates listeners with songs that have an exotic, danceable vibe rooted in her native Spanish.
Many of her tracks feature very positive lyrics, such as her 1995 hit “Estoy Aquí.” When you’re feeling down from studying or work, or nervous before a big event, listening to her music is sure to give you the courage to stay positive and do your best!