[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 hit in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks (101–110)
It’s Not Right But It’s OkayWhitney Houston
Whitney Houston is a world-famous star known by everyone.
Many of you may have discovered her through the film The Bodyguard.
One of the songs she created with the theme of a strong woman is “It’s Not Right but It’s Okay.” It portrays the feelings of a woman who tells a man it’s over.
It’s said that the song was inspired by Whitney Houston’s real-life experiences with her ex-husband.
It’s especially recommended when you need a boost of energy.
Men In BlackWill Smith
A track that marked Will Smith’s solo debut.
Released in June 1997 as the theme song for the film Men in Black, it shot to the top of charts worldwide.
The lyrics, which depict the exploits of agents in a secret organization that protects Earth, faithfully reflect the movie’s world.
Encounters with aliens, black suits, and the memory-erasing device—key elements from the film—are woven throughout.
Will Smith’s charismatic rap and the catchy melody create a refreshing vibe that blows away the summer heat.
It’s a must-listen not only for movie fans but also for anyone with a soft spot for ’90s music.
Bitchmeredith brooks
Meredith Brooks, who entered the music industry at 15, released this debut single at age 38.
It’s a song with a message of re-education and reformation.
It was nominated for a Grammy and was featured in the 2000 film “What Women Want.”
Oh YeahAsh
Ash is a rock band from Northern Ireland.
As one of the representative bands of Britpop, they gained popularity in the 1990s with a sound rooted in alternative rock and pop punk.
Among their works, the summer song I especially recommend is “Oh Yeah.” It’s a track marked by a melancholic melody that depicts a fleeting summer romance from the past—emotional yet imbued with a cool edge.
Be sure to give it a listen.
UnbelievableEMF
A song written by Ian Dench, the guitarist of EMF, who served as the main songwriter.
It’s about a woman who keeps making demands and gives nothing in return.
The track became popular on pop radio and in dance clubs, and was used in the film Coyote Ugly.
[Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks (111–120)
Return Of The MackMark Morrison
A song released as a single in 1996 by Mark Morrison, a British R&B artist from West Germany.
It samples the beat from Tom Tom Club’s “Genius of Love.” The music video, directed by Jake Nava, was filmed in London.
Counting CrowsMr. Jones
It’s the song “Mr.
Jones” by the band Counting Crows, formed in San Francisco.
It’s included on the album “August and Everything After,” released in 1993.
The album was a huge hit, selling 7 million copies in the United States alone.
They were also nominated for two awards at the Grammy Awards.
Counting Crows took the world by storm with catchy songs you can’t forget after a single listen and their distinctive vocals.
