[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 (1–10)
Summer GirlsLFO
LFO (Lyte Funkie Ones) is an American hip-hop group that rose to popularity in the late 1990s.
They specialized in a catchy style that mixed R&B and pop-rap, dropping a number of hit tunes.
One track I especially recommend is Summer Girls.
It’s one of their most famous works—a breezy love song that evokes summer sunsets.
It’s perfect for a summer drive playlist.
Be sure to check it out.
Really Into YouAround the way
Around the Way, a U.
S.
-based music unit, drew attention for a sound rooted in R&B and hip-hop while skillfully incorporating the flavor of New Jack Swing.
Led by the central figure, Kayel, the members came from a freestyle music background.
Their signature track—true to its title—bursts with straightforward romantic emotion that instantly grabs the listener.
The lively interplay between male and female vocals creates a sense of uplift like the beginning of summer, with a danceable rhythm and catchy melody that make you want to move.
Released as a 12-inch single in 1992, the song was also included on their sole album, “Smooth Is The Way,” released in 1993.
It peaked at No.
89 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It’s recommended for anyone who wants to feel ’90s grooves, perfect as background music for summer drives and parties.
Goody GoodyLisette Melendez
American solo singer Lisette Melendez, who grew up in the tough environment of East Harlem, New York, discovered her passion for singing at 12.
Centering her sound on freestyle and Latin pop, she carved out her musical path on her own.
This track is an irresistibly bright dance-pop number that perfectly captures the spirit of a 90s summer.
It playfully expresses the carefree feeling of soaking up the sun and enjoying yourself without letting anyone say, “Don’t try to act like a goody-goody!” A heady rush of basking in love under the sun pours out from the entire sound.
This feel-good track was released in November 1993 as the lead single from her second album, True to Life, and reached No.
53 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The music video, directed by actress Rosie Perez, also drew attention.
Put it on for a summer drive or beach party and your spirits are guaranteed to soar—an essential slice of 90s brilliance.
[Western Music] Summer songs that hit in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks (11–20)
WannabeSpice Girls
For those who came of age in the 1990s, this Spice Girls track is probably a memorable one.
It’s one of the group’s signature songs from the UK and still enjoys enduring popularity today.
Overall it’s a refreshing pop tune, but its charm lies in the touches of Black music woven into the melody in places.
Released in 1996, it became a massive hit worldwide.
It also works great as dance music, so be sure to give it a listen.
MiamiWill Smith
Will Smith is a highly skilled actor who has appeared in a wide range of films and won numerous awards.
While he’s well-known in Japan as well, there may be fewer people who have listened to his music.
He’s also active as a rapper, known for his sharp, clean-flow style that evokes a middle-school vibe.
Among his tracks, “Miami” is especially perfect for summer.
The hot verses paired with the cool hook conjure up images of a summertime midtown.
BoombasticShaggy
Shaggy is a reggae deejay who represents Jamaica.
If you listened to reggae in the 1990s, you probably know him.
Among his works, the track I especially recommend is Boombastic.
This song samples the great soul singer Marvin Gaye’s Let’s Get It On, and since the original has a summery vibe, this one also ends up being a very hot track.
It’s the perfect song to blast on a steamy night while hanging out with friends, throwing your gunfingers in the air.
WaterfallsTLC
The phrase “Chasing Waterfalls” that appears in the lyrics expresses people pursuing intangible dreams without considering the consequences.
The rap section was written by group member Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and when she died in a car accident in Honduras in 2002, those lyrics were engraved on her coffin.