[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.
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[Western Music] Summary of Male Singers Active in the ’90s (1–10)
FreedomRobbie Williams
This work was released in July 1996 as the solo debut single of Robbie Williams, who had left the popular British group Take That.
A cover of George Michael’s classic, the song serves as something of a personal “statement.” His resolve to break the chains of the past and live true to himself resonates deep within, carried by a voice brimming with youth and energy.
It made a striking debut, entering the UK charts at No.
2, though it was not included on the album Life thru a Lens.
When you want to free yourself from something and take a new step forward, the song’s celebratory atmosphere is sure to lift your spirits.
Brown SugarD’Angelo
This is the debut song by the genius from Virginia, D’Angelo, whose arrival heralded a new era in the ’90s R&B scene.
Released in June 1995 as the lead single from his album Brown Sugar, it remains a beloved classic that represents neo-soul.
At first listen it sounds like a sweet love song to a woman, but it’s actually a clever metaphor that personifies marijuana.
The way he sings about getting “high,” like being drunk on love, riding over jazzy organ and a languid beat, is truly one of a kind.
The organically crafted, DIY groove of this track has a charm that seems to melt into the stillness of the night.
When you want to sink into music with a slightly more mature mood, why not lose yourself in its smoky soundscape?
Birds Without WingsDavid Gray
This song marks the beginning of the career of British singer-songwriter David Gray, who would later achieve global success with the classic album White Ladder.
Released in November 1992 as his debut single, the track poignantly portrays a powerful longing for freedom and the frustration of an unyielding reality through the image of a bird yearning to soar without wings.
The pure resonance of the acoustic guitar intertwines with his introspective vocals, conveying a struggle against the inescapable real world that resonates deep within the listener.
The song is included on his debut album A Century Ends, released in April 1993.
It’s a perfect track for a quiet night of contemplation, when you want to dive deep into your own heart.
[Western Music] Roundup of Male Singers Active in the ’90s (11–20)
GraceJeff Buckley
Jeff Buckley is an American singer-songwriter and the son of a legendary folk singer.
This is his debut single, released in August 1994, the work that marked his beginnings before he left this world at the young age of 30.
Even as he faces an inescapable fate, his earnest desire to find love and salvation within it shakes the listener to the core.
The lyrics—combining delicacy and intensity—are striking, as if embodying his philosophy that “sensitivity is not weakness.” Blending his angelic high falsetto with a dramatic band sound, this piece may well be one of the most beautiful tragedies the ’90s produced.
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, 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?
Round And RoundTevin Campbell
Tevin Campbell, an American singer who burst onto the scene with a level of vocal prowess hard to believe from a teenager.
His debut track, which put his name on the map, was released in September 1990 and was produced entirely by none other than Prince.
While he sings about the frustration of going in circles in a game of love, his supple vocals also convey the youthful spirit that can still enjoy the situation.
The song drew attention as part of Prince’s own film Graffiti Bridge and was nominated for the 33rd Grammy Awards.
It was also included on his debut album T.
E.
V.
I.
N.
So put this track on and let yourself sink into the groove of the ’90s!