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A roundup of debut songs by male Western artists/singers from the ’90s

The 1990s were a golden era when a wave of new male international artists and singer-songwriters burst onto the scene, crossing genre boundaries from pop and R&B to neo-soul and alternative rock.

In this article, we introduce the debut tracks that marked the starting point for the male international artists who captivated the world in the ’90s.

Whether you remember the music scene from back then or you’re just beginning to explore ’90s music, you’re sure to discover something new!

A roundup of debut songs by male Western artists/singers from the ’90s (1–10)

CrazySeal

Seal – Crazy (Official Music Video) [HD]
CrazySeal

This is the debut single by English singer Seal, released in November 1990.

Amid a world in upheaval—such as the fall of the Berlin Wall—it conveys his powerful message that “to stay sane, you have to be a little crazy to survive.” Its distinctive sound world—where soulful vocals intertwine with airy dance production—leaves a strong impression.

The track reached No.

2 on the UK charts and was also included on his debut album, Seal.

You may have heard it featured in various works, including the film The Devil Wears Prada.

It’s a song that can surely give you strength when you feel unsettled by changing times.

She’s So HighTal Bachman

Tal Bachman – She’s So High (Official Video)
She's So HighTal Bachman

A refreshing guitar riff and a catchy melody electrify this debut from Canadian artist Tal Bachman! Released to radio in February 1999, the song became a worldwide hit, topping the U.

S.

Adult Top 40 chart.

It’s a power-pop number that captures the pure feelings of a man who falls head over heels for a woman seemingly out of his league, getting giddy just thinking about her.

It’s said that this bittersweet theme was inspired by the songwriter’s own high school experiences.

Anyone who’s ever been in love will surely relate to that feeling of being unable to focus when the person you like is around!

Call Me A MackUsher

Usher, the American talent who burst onto the 90s R&B scene like a comet.

His landmark debut single radiates a confidence and charisma that seem far beyond his 15 years at the time.

With a bold declaration of “Call me a cool guy,” he blends a boyish, slightly overreaching charm with an extraordinary spark that foreshadows his future stardom.

The track was featured on the soundtrack to the film Poetic Justice, released in August 1993, and reached No.

56 on the R&B chart.

Its groove-laden sound—an impressive fusion of pop-rap and funk—will put you in the best mood, whether you’re driving or just need an energy boost.

A must-hear track that lets you experience the very first step of his brilliant career.

Debut songs by male Western artists/singers from the ’90s (11–20)

Save TonightEagle-Eye Cherry

This song, which brought Eagle-Eye Cherry’s name to worldwide attention, is his debut single released in October 1997.

Taken from the classic album Desireless, it features the Swedish artist’s soulful vocals and a wistful acoustic sound that really resonates.

Instead of simply mourning a romance destined to end tomorrow, the lyrics suggest raising a glass of wine and turning tonight into the best memory.

The powerful love nestled within the sorrow comes through and truly moves you.

It’s no wonder it captivated the world, reaching as high as No.

5 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

Why not give it a listen on a night when you want to savor the precious, limited time with someone special?

Let’s Stay TogetherEric Benét

Eric Benét – Let’s Stay Together (Midnight Mix) (Official Music Video)
Let's Stay TogetherEric Benét

Eric Benét, a talented artist who emerged from the ’90s R&B scene in the United States.

His debut work is a ballad that portrays sincere love, pledging to “stay together” especially in difficult times.

Many listeners were moved by the protagonist, who believes in their bond and hopes to share a future together even when the relationship isn’t going smoothly.

The song was the fourth single from the acclaimed 1996 album True to Myself, and it also appeared on the soundtrack for the film A Thin Line Between Love and Hate.

Let yourself be carried by the melody’s warm ’70s soul feel—soothing any awkwardness between you—and take a moment to remember the roots of your relationship.

Whatever It TakesKenny Chesney

Kenny Chesney, hailing from the United States and now reigning as a giant in the country scene, made his debut with this song, which sings of a straightforward, passionate love that would do anything for the one you cherish.

It’s irresistibly rich with the traditional, early-career country sound fans have dubbed “twangy.” This track comes from his debut album, In My Wildest Dreams, released in 1994.

There’s also a playful story from 2003, when he sang this very song in the studio with a close friend who was a star player in American football.

Whether you want to convey your honest feelings to someone special or fire yourself up to charge toward your goals, listening to this will surely give you a push.

…Til The Cops Come Knockin’Maxwell

Maxwell – …Til The Cops Come Knockin’ (Reprise – Official 4K Video)
...Til The Cops Come Knockin'Maxwell

Maxwell, an American artist who brought a fresh breeze called neo-soul to the R&B scene of the ’90s.

This work, emblematic of his debut, is a velvety sweet and sensual slow jam that captures the very moment when lovers’ passion peaks.

Its bold expression of love—two people seeking only each other, undisturbed—intertwines with his silk-smooth falsetto, ensnaring listeners in an instant.

His debut album, Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite, released in April 1996 and containing this track, is a renowned record that tells a love story and was nominated for a Grammy Award.

On a quiet night, why not immerse yourself completely in this luscious, richly textured world?