[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 masterpieces and popular tracks (61–70)
HookBlues Traveler
“Hook” is a signature song by the American rock band Blues Traveler.
It was released in 1994 and included on the album Four.
The free-flowing melodies delivered by vocalist John Popper’s raspy voice create a distinctly wistful mood.
The keyboard solo also has a playful, charming feel to it!
Cruel Summer (Bananarama Cover)Ace of Base
Ace of Base is a music group from Sweden.
With a sound centered on adult contemporary, Europop, and techno, they gained popularity in the 1990s.
They were also popular in Japan, where Eurobeat enjoys unusually high popularity.
Among their works, a summer song I especially recommend is Cruel Summer (Bananarama Cover).
Since it’s a cover of a song by the English girl group Bananarama, be sure to compare it with the original.
Run-AroundBlues Traveler
Blues Traveler is a band that gained popularity in the 1990s with a distinctive rock sound rooted in blues and folk rock.
Their harmonica-driven style, which felt like a return to the good old days of music, was refreshingly new at the time.
This song became their biggest hit, and in 1996 it earned the band their first Grammy Award.
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.
Til I Hear It From YouGin Blossoms
In the early 1990s, when grunge and alternative rock sounds were popular, Gin Blossoms gained popularity with their uniquely refreshing rock.
Their song “Til I Hear It From You” was produced as the theme song for the 1995 comedy film Empire Records.
It’s a track with a catchy, pop-leaning melody that sticks with you.
…Baby One More TimeBritney Spears
Britney Spears, a songstress who defined the ’90s.
With her cute looks contrasted by a sexy voice and songs, she’s captured fans’ hearts.
Among her tracks, the one I especially recommend is …Baby One More Time.
Released on October 23, 1998 as her debut single, it became a smash hit, reaching No.
1 not only in the United States but also in the UK, Australia, Italy, France, and charts around the world—an incredible feat for a debut.
With its catchy, R&B-flavored pop sound, it’s perfect for a summer party playlist.
SummertimeDJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
A hip-hop song with a cool, comfortable beat, “Summertime.” I think many Western music fans start craving this track when summer comes around.
The performers are the pop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince.
The Fresh Prince is none other than Will Smith, who’s also known as a film actor.
In fact, many people might not even know he had a music career.
The music video, featuring a 23-year-old Will Smith rapping with effortless cool, is a must-see!