[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!
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[Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks (71–80)
Gangsta’s Paradise (feat. L.V.)Coolio
Coolio, a West Coast gangsta rapper—any real head knows the name.
His signature track is this one from 1995, which was also featured on the soundtrack to the film Dangerous Minds, making it one of the defining big tunes of the ’90s.
Built on a heavy beat sampling a Stevie Wonder song and topped with gospel-style choruses, it pairs cool, incisive raps about the harsh realities of gang life and anger at social injustice with a powerful message.
It’s a track as hot as the summer heat—perfect for a driving playlist.
NameGoo Goo Dolls
The Goo Goo Dolls joined the ranks of popular musicians in the 1990s, but despite being a highly skilled rock band, they struggled to achieve a major breakthrough.
Their first big hit was Name, a single released from their 1995 album A Boy Named Goo.
It’s a refreshing classic that blends an acoustic style with the band’s sound.
Here Comes The Hotstepper (Remix)Ini Kamoze
Speaking of a killer tune that fuses reggae and dancehall and is perfect for summer, it has to be the classic by Chamoise Aini.
Since its 1994 release, it has dominated charts around the world.
It even hit No.
1 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100 and became a huge hit across Europe.
It’s also featured on the soundtrack of the film “Prêt-à-Porter.” With its powerful rhythm and catchy melody, the lyrics celebrating confidence and strength are unforgettable.
Skillfully weaving in Jamaican slang, it portrays an attitude of overcoming adversity.
It’s the perfect track to blast with friends on a hot summer day.
[Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks (81–90)
Let’s Get LoudJennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez, a singer known for numerous hit songs such as “I’m Real” and “All I Have featuring LL Cool J.
” Her “Let’s Get Loud” is a track that’s sure to hype up a midsummer sports event.
Backed by an ethnically flavored dance track and powerful, layered choruses, its impactful sound is so addictive you’ll find yourself hooked after just one listen! Why not give it a try?
Lightning Crasheslive
Live is an American alternative rock band.
They achieved worldwide success with their 1994 album Throwing Copper, and among its tracks, the long-running hit was Lightning Crashes.
Its gentle guitar parts and emotional vocals epitomize the sound of the ’90s, but the band’s strength also lay in their diverse range of songs that offered much more than that.
Mambo No. 5 (A Little Bit of…)Lou Bega
In the late 1990s, a song was born that captivated people around the world.
Lou Bega’s work, based on Cuban mambo and skillfully incorporating elements of pop and rap, is the perfect summer dance tune.
With lyrics that list various women’s names over a lively rhythm, it sets listeners’ hearts dancing.
Released in July 1999, the track quickly swept charts worldwide.
As the lead single from the album “A Little Bit of Mambo,” it catapulted Lou Bega to instant fame.
It’s the perfect song to listen to on a hot summer day while driving with friends.
U Can’t Touch ThisMC Hammer
In the 1990s, hip-hop was booming across racial lines.
Among the most popular hits was MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This.” The song appears on MC Hammer’s album Please Hammer Don’t Hurt ’Em, released on February 12, 1990, and became a massive hit thanks to its catchy sound.
Its high energy feels perfect for a hot summer, doesn’t it? By the way, the recurring riff throughout the track is a sample from Rick James’s “Super Freak.”