[Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks
The 1990s were a time when alternative rock upended the dominance of the hit charts that had lasted through the ’80s, indie artists brimming with talent thrived without relying on major labels, and one young talent after another emerged in hip-hop and R&B.
Of course, the mainstream pop scene also produced countless big hits.
Among the countless hit songs and classics born from these diverse scenes, this time we’re picking out “summer songs” perfect for the season.
From definitive anthems that sing directly about summer to killer tunes made for hot days, we’re bringing you a richly varied lineup!
- [For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic and Popular Western Hits from the 1990s
- Summer songs from Western music that were hits in the 2000s
- Western songs from the 90s featured in commercials. A roundup of CM songs.
- Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs of the 90s
- [Back to the '90s!] Dance Music from Western Hits of the 1990s
- Classic R&B songs perfect for summer: recommended popular tracks
- All masterpieces! Western pop ballads that were hits in the ’90s
- Golden age of Western music! Recommended summer songs that were hits in the 80s
- Classic Western hip-hop songs recommended for summer
- [2025 Updated Edition] Western songs to listen to in summer: recommended summer tracks
- Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the ’90s
- 90s Rock Revolution! A Collection of Masterpieces by Western Bands That Colored the 90s
- Tearjerkers! A roundup of moving Western songs that were hits in the ’90s
[Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the 90s: Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks (61–70)
I Need to KnowMarc Anthony
Released in 1999, the classic hit “I Need to Know” became a worldwide sensation.
At the start of the following year, 2000, it won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.
The song’s American singer, Marc Anthony, is also well known as an actor.
Along with the sound of Latin instruments, another highlight is the lyrics.
His struggle to understand what a woman feels is something men of any era can relate to.
With its catchy Latin-pop melody, it’s perfect for a summer vibe!
Smooth ft. Rob ThomasSantana
Smooth, the classic released on June 29, 1999 by the San Francisco band Santana.
Centered around charismatic guitarist Carlos Santana, the band was formed in San Francisco and is known for its passionate Latin sound.
With their large lineup—including a brass section and percussionists—they create a sound only they can express.
This track features Rob Thomas, the vocalist of the popular ’90s rock band Matchbox Twenty, as the lead singer.
It’s a perfect song for a heat wave!
If You Could Only SeeTonic
Tonic is an American band that made their debut in 1996 with the album Lemon Parade.
The single If You Could Only See became a hit, climbing high on Billboard’s airplay charts.
Thanks to its popularity, it even appeared in video games, making it a song that can be seen as emblematic of 1990s alternative rock.
I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)The Proclaimers
A song by The Proclaimers, the Scottish twins Craig and Charlie Reid.
It is dedicated to a woman with whom the singer wants to spend the rest of his life.
It features vocals with a Scottish accent.
The track was used in the 1993 film “Benny & Joon.”
SummertimeDJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
A hip-hop song with a cool, comfortable beat, “Summertime.” I think many Western music fans start craving this track when summer comes around.
The performers are the pop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince.
The Fresh Prince is none other than Will Smith, who’s also known as a film actor.
In fact, many people might not even know he had a music career.
The music video, featuring a 23-year-old Will Smith rapping with effortless cool, is a must-see!
We Like to PartyVengaboys
Vengaboys is a Eurodance pop-dance group based in Amsterdam.
They achieved major commercial success especially in the ’90s, and one of their signature tracks is “Vengaboys.” From the intro, a programmed sequence sound unfolds that evokes quintessential ’90s electronic music.
The simple melody paired with a track that effectively uses light, bouncy percussion is irresistibly catchy.
The synthesizer tones that appear partway through also carry a distinctly ’90s sense of curious nostalgia, which is really appealing!
All That She Wants (Official Music Video)Ace of Base
This is the song All That She Wants by Ace of Base.
Ace of Base is a music group from Sweden.
The lineup consists of siblings plus one friend.
All That She Wants was released in 1992 and became a worldwide hit, ranking high on charts in many countries.
The reggae vibe matches the dark atmosphere really well! It’s a catchy tune.