![[For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic and Popular Western Hits from the 1990s](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/hTWKbfoikeg/maxresdefault.webp)
[For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic and Popular Western Hits from the 1990s
When it comes to the Western music scene of the 1990s, in the United States new movements like alternative rock and grunge upended rock’s values, while hip-hop and R&B made dramatic leaps forward, producing countless classic works.
Looking to the UK, Britpop erupted as something of a counter to America’s alt boom, giving rise to globally renowned bands like Oasis and Blur.
Of course, the major pop sphere churned out massive hits one after another, and the underground scene also thrived.
It’s impossible to cover all Western music from the 1990s, but this time, under the theme of “big-hit Western songs,” we’re bringing you a beginner-friendly selection of ’90s hits!
[For Beginners] A Compilation of Iconic 90s Western Music Hits and Popular Songs (1–10)
Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana
It’s fair to call this the quintessential grunge anthem that swept the globe and reshaped the music scene of the ’90s.
With a single blast of its simple power-chord intro riff, this masterpiece grabs the listener’s heart.
Released in September 1991 by the American band Nirvana as the lead single from the album Nevermind, it dominated the charts.
Listening again, you’re reminded how brilliantly Kurt Cobain’s songwriting and vocals shine, how strong the melodies are, and how the powerful rhythm section underpins a simple yet carefully crafted band ensemble.
It’s a song that was destined to be a hit—and one that feels straightforwardly, undeniably cool.
Basket CaseGreen Day
Green Day, who burst into the spotlight in the ’90s alternative rock scene, emerged from California’s punk community.
Their signature work candidly portrays Billie Joe Armstrong’s struggle with anxiety disorder.
Released in November 1994, the song reached No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100, challenging taboos around mental illness and resonating with many people.
The music video was filmed in a real psychiatric hospital and received nine nominations at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards.
Transcending the bounds of punk rock, it stands as one of the defining tracks of the ’90s that touched countless hearts.
WonderwallOasis
It’s not just a quintessential Britpop anthem of the ’90s—it’s a song that continues to be loved by music fans around the world.
Released in 1995 by the British rock band Oasis, it became a global hit as a single from the album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?.
The mass sing-alongs at live shows are truly a spectacular sight.
The melody is straightforward and easy to sing, and in 1996 it won the BRIT Award for Best British Single.
The monochrome music video is memorable as well.
With the news in 2024 that Oasis are finally reuniting, it’s the perfect time to revisit this classic track!
Doo Wop (That Thing)Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill’s smash hit remains an un-fading R&B classic that epitomizes the 1990s.
Hill first rose to prominence as a member of the Fugees before launching her solo career.
Released in August 1998, the track reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Its lyrics, which emphasize self-worth and self-respect, resonated deeply with many listeners.
Issued as the lead single from Hill’s solo debut album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, the song won two Grammy Awards.
It’s a must-listen not only for R&B fans but also for anyone interested in ’90s music.
Common PeoplePulp
This song, known as a classic by Pulp—the band that epitomizes Britpop—is characterized by lyrics that sharply capture social issues such as class disparity and poverty.
Released in October 1995 as the lead single from their fifth album, Different Class, it became a major hit, reaching No.
2 in the UK.
Their performance at that year’s Glastonbury Festival has since become legendary.
Based on Jarvis Cocker’s own experiences, the lyrics deliver a scathing critique of the way upper-class people dismiss the lives of those from lower classes.
It’s a compelling track that fuses keen social insight with a catchy melody, and it’s highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the atmosphere of the ’90s.
Say My NameDestiny’s Child
This is a smash hit released in 1999 by Destiny’s Child, a female vocal group that represents the United States.
It stands as one of the defining works of the late-’90s R&B scene, featuring striking lyrics that center on suspicion and betrayal in a romantic relationship.
The song won two Grammy Awards and topped the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100.
Its music video drew attention for its vibrant sets and dynamic dance performances.
Even if you know Beyoncé but aren’t familiar with Destiny’s Child, younger listeners should definitely check it out.
Baby One More TimeBritney Spears
The American songstress Britney Spears’s debut single can be considered a landmark of ’90s pop.
Released in October 1998, the track became a massive hit, reaching number one in 20 countries.
Its lyrics, themed around the sorrow and regret of heartbreak, resonated with many listeners, and the memorable chorus was hummed around the world.
The song greatly influenced the revival of teen pop and became emblematic of Spears’s career.
It continues to be highly acclaimed, having been ranked number one in Rolling Stone’s 2020 list of the “100 Greatest Debut Singles of All Time.”