[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 (21–30)
Can I Kick It?A Tribe Called Quest
A Tribe Called Quest, who brought a fresh breeze to the music scene with their jazzy sound and intellectual lyrics.
Their signature track, released as a single in October 1990, stands out for its title—posed like a question—that captures youth, confidence, and a humorous gaze at society.
Its iconic bassline, sampled from a Lou Reed song, creates a smooth, satisfying groove.
The track appears on their debut album, People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm.
It has also been featured in the film Tom & Jerry and the game Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2.
A quintessential ’90s summer tune that lifts the mood for sunny drives and time with friends.
VenusBananarama
Formed in London, Bananarama vividly colored the pop scene of the ’80s.
Their bold cover of a famous song by a Dutch band—named after the goddess of beauty—became a global smash in 1986 and still brings a rush of summer exhilaration.
Reborn with the energetic Hi-NRG sound the members themselves craved, the track’s music video portrays them like mythic goddesses, radiating irresistible allure and passionate love.
Released as a single from the album “True Confessions,” it hit No.
1 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100 in September 1986.
Long beloved as a Gillette commercial tune and reigning as a summer anthem throughout the ’90s, this song is perfect for amping up drives and parties alike.
The Boy Is MineBrandy&Monica
A defining, searingly passionate R&B duet of the ’90s.
In this number, American singers Brandy and Monica spar over a single man, each declaring “He’s mine,” unleashing an energy that rivals the heat of summer.
Their vocal back-and-forth vividly captures the thrill of romantic gamesmanship and their unyielding emotions, pulling listeners straight into the heart of the drama.
Released in May 1998, the song appeared as a single from Brandy’s album “Never Say Never” and Monica’s album “The Boy Is Mine,” and it set a record by holding the No.
1 spot on the U.
S.
charts for 13 consecutive weeks.
The music video also received high acclaim, winning at the Billboard Music Video Awards.
Perfect for amping up a summer drive or party, it’s a must for anyone craving dramatic R&B.
Baby BabyCorona
Corona is a Eurodance project from Italy.
Centered around the glamorous frontwoman Olga Maria de Souza and sound creator Francesco Bontempi, their music dominated the club scene of the 1990s.
Released in February 1995, this track—which swept through clubs at the time—is an exhilarating number that rides an energetic beat to capture the thrill of new love and unstoppable passion.
Its catchy synth melodies and powerful female vocals shine like the summer sun, setting listeners’ hearts dancing.
The song was released as a single from the album “The Rhythm of the Night” and was also featured on the soundtrack of the Italian film “Selvaggi.” It became a massive hit, topping the charts in their native Italy for five consecutive weeks.
It’s a killer tune, perfect for cranking up the mood to the max—whether on a summer drive or at a party with friends.
Steal My SunshineLen
With its light piano rhythm and crisp sound that are perfect for summer, Len’s “Steal My Sunshine,” by the Canadian alternative rock band, fits the bill.
Released as a single in 1999, it reached No.
9 on the U.
S.
charts.
That same year, it was also featured in the films “Peter Rabbit” and “Go.” The music video, where they sing on a beach under dazzling sunlight, also oozes summer vibes.
Its bright, poppy sound is enough to make you happy just by listening, making it a great pick for summer outings.
Are You Gonna Go My WayLenny Kravitz
This is an energetic rock tune that epitomizes the ’90s and is perfect for summer.
Created by American artist Lenny Kravitz, the single was released in February 1993, followed by the acclaimed album “Are You Gonna Go My Way” in March of the same year.
Set to a striking guitar riff reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix, its powerful message challenges the status quo, as if asking, “Are you gonna go my way?” It’s filled with a sense of freedom and exhilaration that stirs a spirit of summer adventure, and it’s also known for serving as the opening theme to the PlayStation 2 game Gran Turismo 3: A-spec.
Listen to it while driving or when you want to boost your mood, and you’ll feel a supportive push forward.
One HeadlightThe Wallflowers
The Wallflowers are an American rock band fronted by Jacob Dylan, the son of Bob Dylan.
Although they struggled to find success for some time, their 1996 album “Bringing Down the Horse” was a major hit, and the music video for “One Headlight,” included on the album, was also highly acclaimed.
As the title suggests, the lyrics—“let’s keep going even with just one headlight”—convey the importance of not giving up.