[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 (31–40)
Ice Ice BabyVanilla Ice
Vanilla Ice was one of the best-selling rappers of the ’90s.
He broke through by turning Hip Hop—then dominated by slang-heavy and explicit lyrics—into something poppy and accessible to the mainstream.
He’s also known as a pioneering white rapper.
His big break came with 1990’s “Ice Ice Baby.” The “Ice Ice” in the title doesn’t refer to Vanilla Ice himself; it means “super cool.” It’s an irresistibly upbeat track, perfect for a drive.
Roll To MeDel Amitri
A ballad released as a single in 1995 by the Scottish pop-rock band Del Amitri.
It became a hit in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Its comical music video is featured in the Beavis and Butt-Head TV series episode titled “Prank Call.
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I Love You Always ForeverDonna Lewis
This is the song “I Love You Always Forever” by Donna Lewis, a singer from the UK.
It’s included on her 1996 album Now in a Minute.
Donna Lewis’s clear, translucent vocals and the understated synthesizers create a mysterious atmosphere that’s wonderful.
The track builds toward the end, making it a very satisfying listen.
Save TonightEagle-Eye Cherry
Eagle-Eye Cherry is a singer from Sweden.
His 1998 album “Desireless” was a major hit in the United States, and the single “Save Tonight” also climbed high on the charts in countries around the world.
With lyrics about parting set to a catchy pop melody, the song stands as one of the quintessential hits of the late 1990s.
The WayFastball
Fastball is a rock band from Texas that rose to popularity in the 1990s with a sound rooted in alternative rock and pop rock.
They’re still active today and even have passionate fans in Japan.
Among their works, a particularly recommended summer song is The Way.
It’s a track with a Latin flair that depicts a couple running away together.
The decadent lyrics and melody match perfectly, so be sure to give it a listen.
[Western Music] Summer songs that hit in the '90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks (41–50)
Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)Green Day
This is the song Good Riddance by the American punk band Green Day.
It’s included on their 1997 album Nimrod.
Even though it’s all acoustic guitar and has strings, so there’s no punk feel at all, it’s a really great song.
The nostalgic melody is wonderful.
In the recorded version of the song, you can clearly hear Billie Joe botch the guitar right at the start, so be sure to give it a listen!
Only Wanna Be With YouHootie&The Blowfish
This song is “Only Wanna Be With You” by Hootie & The Blowfish.
Hootie & The Blowfish are a rock band formed in Columbia, South Carolina, in the United States.
The vocalist, Darius Rucker, has such a wonderfully gritty voice! Also, their debut album Cracked Rear View, which includes this song, ranked 19th on the list of best-selling albums in the United States.