[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!
- Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs of the 90s
- 90s Rock Revolution! A Collection of Masterpieces by Western Bands That Colored the 90s
- Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the ’90s
- Western songs from the 90s featured in commercials. A roundup of CM songs.
- Tearjerkers! A roundup of moving Western songs that were hits in the ’90s
- Debut songs by female Western artists from the 1990s
- All masterpieces! Western pop ballads that were hits in the ’90s
- [Back to the '90s!] Dance Music from Western Hits of the 1990s
- [Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks
- Love songs in Western music that were hits in the ’90s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- 2000s Western pop hits you still hear in commercials, movies, and on the streets
- Cheering songs in Western music that were hits in the ’90s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- [For Beginners] A Collection of Classic Melodic Punk (Melodic Hardcore) Songs
[For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic and Popular Western Hits from the 1990s (11–20)
A Whole New WorldPeabo Bryson & Regina Belle
When it comes to theme songs from foreign films that became record-breaking hits in the 1990s, the first that comes to mind is the timeless classic by Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle.
Sung by these two American artists, the song was featured over the end credits as the theme for Disney’s 1992 film Aladdin.
It reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100 and achieved great success worldwide.
With lyrics full of dreams and hope and a melody that resonates deeply—like setting off on a magic carpet to explore the unknown—it has captivated countless hearts.
Portraying an adventure into a new world, discovery, and a longing for freedom, the song beautifully conveys the rising emotions of two people in love, drawing listeners into an enchanting world.
Don’t SpeakNo Doubt
This song, which portrays the pain of a relationship’s end, is known as one of the defining international hits of the 1990s.
Featured on No Doubt’s 1995 album Tragic Kingdom, the track captured many listeners’ hearts with Gwen Stefani’s stirring vocals and relatable lyrics.
When it was released as a single in April 1996, it became the most-played song on American radio and achieved high positions on various charts.
It was also a major international hit, reaching number one in many countries, including the United Kingdom and Australia.
Quiet yet powerful in its expression of heartbreak, the song continues to be beloved as an anthem that speaks for those who have gone through similar experiences.
Enter SandmanMetallica
This is a groundbreaking track that shook the metal scene in the ’90s.
Featured as the opening song on Metallica’s 1991 album “Metallica,” it became a massive hit that transcended the boundaries of heavy metal.
The lyrics, themed around childhood fears and nightmares, portray the mythological figure of the Sandman in an eerie light, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
This song marks a shift from their earlier thrash metal style to a more groovy, catchy sound, making it truly iconic.
It’s frequently used at American sporting events and is beloved by a wide audience.
A classic recommended not only for metal fans but also for newcomers to rock.
WannabeSpice Girls
The debut single by the British girl group Spice Girls, released in 1996, is a defining pop anthem of the ’90s that topped the charts in 37 countries.
Embracing the message of “girl power,” its lyrics emphasize women’s empowerment and the importance of friendship.
With a danceable beat and a catchy melody that sticks in your head, it captivated young people around the world.
The track is included on their first album, Spice, which became a massive hit, selling over 23 million copies—the best-selling album by a female group in history.
Semi-Charmed LifeThird Eye Blind
A signature song by San Francisco–based Third Eye Blind and an emblem of ’90s post-grunge.
Despite its breezy sound, it’s actually about methamphetamine use and its effects.
Released in 1997, it reached No.
4 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
As the lead single from the album “Third Eye Blind,” it helped the album sell over six million copies and earn six-times platinum certification.
Beneath its bright, catchy melody lies a profound message portraying the emptiness and despair of addiction.
As one of the defining international hits of the ’90s, it continues to be loved by many.
LoserBeck
I think many people will hear this song and feel nostalgic, wondering what they’re up to now.
It’s Beck’s massive hit from the ’90s, hugely popular not only with girls but with guys who thought he was cool, too.
After one listen it sticks in your head—Beck’s voice sounds incredibly cool over a distinctive, highly original, unique yet catchy sound.
[For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic Western Hits from the 90s: Popular Songs (21–30)
LovefoolThe Cardigans
A signature pop tune of the ’90s by the popular Swedish band The Cardigans.
The song, which perfectly pairs sweet, bittersweet female vocals with a lively disco beat, is irresistibly catchy—once you hear it, you won’t forget it.
Included on the 1996 album First Band on the Moon and later featured on the soundtrack of the 1997 film Romeo + Juliet, it became a massive worldwide hit.
Nina Persson’s clear, airy voice and lyrics that deftly capture the complex emotions of someone in love convey both the joy and the melancholy of romance at the same time.