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[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 roundup of iconic Western hit songs from the ’90s (41–50)

You Gotta BeDes’ree

Des’ree – You Gotta Be (’99 Mix) [Video]
You Gotta BeDes'ree

A song by Des’ree, a singer-songwriter and soul singer from London, UK, that became the catalyst for her global recognition.

Backed only by a beautiful piano melody at first, her vocals—and later, her voice when the band joins—both convey a comforting gentleness infused with power, making it a truly pleasant number.

[For Beginners] A Compilation of Iconic and Popular Western Hits from the 1990s (51–60)

ALL I WANTThe Offspring

The Offspring – All I Want (Official Music Video)
ALL I WANTThe Offspring

This track rides on a powerful, catchy melody to sing out a thirst for freedom.

You may find yourself relating to the lyrics, which capture a spirit of resistance against social pressure.

Released in 1997 from The Offspring’s fourth album, “Ixnay on the Hombre,” it charted in countries around the world.

Its tie-ins with the popular game Crazy Taxi and the show Daria also drew attention.

Recommended for anyone who wants to experience a punk rock classic or express their longing for freedom through music.

Every listen is sure to fill you with courage!

November RainGuns N’ Roses

A single from Guns N’ Roses’ 1991 blockbuster album Use Your Illusion.

It’s a grand-scale ballad, and Slash’s lead guitar, which appears three times, is irresistibly sensual.

Listeners back then reportedly waged fierce debates—or so the story goes—over whether this song or “Don’t Cry” was the No.

1 ballad on the album.

Just A GirlNo Doubt

While wearing the mask of girlishness and unleashing defiance against society, this song is the quintessential work of California’s No Doubt.

Released in September 1995 as the lead single from the album Tragic Kingdom, it captures Gwen Stefani’s candid anger at the constraints placed on women.

Sparked by being forbidden by her father to drive at night, the lyrics resonated with many women.

Blending ska punk and pop, the track reached No.

23 on the Billboard charts and No.

3 in Australia.

Featured in the films Clueless and Captain Marvel, it’s a go-to anthem for moments when you need a surge of girl power.

Killing Me Softly With His SongThe Fugees

Fugees – Killing Me Softly With His Song (Official Video)
Killing Me Softly With His SongThe Fugees

A track composed by Charles Fox and Norman Gimbel.

It was released by Roberta Flack in 1973 and became a hit.

This version by Fugees was released in 1996 and reached No.

1 on charts around the world.

It samples A Tribe Called Quest’s 1990 track “Bonita Applebum.”

You Oughta KnowAlanis Morissette

Alanis Morissette – You Oughta Know (Official 4K Music Video)
You Oughta KnowAlanis Morissette

It seems there have always been female rock artists dubbed “the second coming of Janis,” and in the ’90s that role would have to be Alanis Morissette.

In this song in particular, with its strong rock edge, her fierce intensity is on full display, and the lyrics are quite radical.

When it comes to raw intensity, Ringo Sheena is often brought up for comparison as well.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)
Don't Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis is a British rock band that gained immense worldwide popularity and achieved great success.

This is their masterpiece, a truly iconic song.

More recently, it became known for being sung by the people of Manchester in tribute after the terrorist attack in their hometown.

It remains a beloved song that transcends time.