![[Western Music] A roundup of male singers who were active in the ’90s](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/4Fc67yQsPqQ/maxresdefault.webp)
[Western Music] A roundup of male singers who were active in the ’90s
When it comes to the Western music scene of the ’90s, genres like grunge, country pop, R&B, and hip-hop were all fiercely competing with one another.
The artists who thrived in each of these scenes are still remembered as legends today and have influenced many of the artists active now.
In this article, we’ll focus on male singers among the overseas artists who were prominent in the ’90s and introduce our recommended picks.
Take this opportunity to explore the voices of many singers and find your new favorite artist.
[Western Music] Summary of Male Singers Active in the ’90s (1–10)
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
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!
LoserBeck
Have you ever been overwhelmed by a sense of helplessness and found yourself thinking, “I’m just a loser,” and giving up? This breakout track by the American musician Beck is a song that speaks directly to that very feeling of futility.
Beneath the self-deprecating words of the narrator lies not so much profound despair as a cool, wry humor that views the world at a slant.
That distinctive sense of languid detachment might actually help lighten your heart.
Released in March 1993 as an indie single, the track was later included on the album Mellow Gold.
It’s the kind of song that, on days when nothing goes right and you feel on the verge of self-destruction, has a strange, uplifting charm that can make you feel saved.
Barely BreathingDuncan Sheik
Duncan Sheik, an American singer-songwriter known for his intelligent and delicate vocals, leaves a lasting impression.
His memorable debut single portrays the bittersweet emotions of realizing a lover’s deceit and, after agonizing to the point of being unable to breathe, choosing to walk away.
Set to an acoustic guitar melody, his clear, translucent vocals vividly convey the overwhelming pressure of inescapable feelings.
Released in May 1996, the song became an extraordinary long-running hit, staying on the U.
S.
charts for 55 weeks.
It was also featured in the TV drama Party of Five, drawing significant attention.
On nights when you’re troubled by a complicated love, or when you want to quietly sit with your thoughts alone, listening to this song may resonate deep within your heart.
Needle in the HayElliott Smith
Elliott Smith is an American singer-songwriter known for his whisper-like vocals and acoustic guitar tones.
This work is his first single, released in 1995, and it’s included on his second album, Elliott Smith.
Hopelessly cornered circumstances and self-destructive impulses are rendered with painfully stark realism within its quiet melody.
Many listeners will feel their hearts tighten at the portrait of a protagonist burdened by loneliness no one understands, standing at the edge of despair.
The song was used in a shocking scene in the 2001 film The Royal Tenenbaums.
It may gently stay beside the pain that sinks into the deepest parts of the heart.
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, 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.