[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 (11–20)
Really Into YouAround the way
Around the Way, a U.S.-based music unit, drew attention for a sound rooted in R&B and hip-hop while skillfully incorporating the flavor of New Jack Swing.
Led by the central figure, Kayel, the members came from a freestyle music background.
Their signature track—true to its title—bursts with straightforward romantic emotion that instantly grabs the listener.
The lively interplay between male and female vocals creates a sense of uplift like the beginning of summer, with a danceable rhythm and catchy melody that make you want to move.
Released as a 12-inch single in 1992, the song was also included on their sole album, “Smooth Is The Way,” released in 1993.
It peaked at No.
89 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It’s recommended for anyone who wants to feel ’90s grooves, perfect as background music for summer drives and parties.
BoombasticShaggy
Shaggy is a reggae deejay who represents Jamaica.
If you listened to reggae in the 1990s, you probably know him.
Among his works, the track I especially recommend is Boombastic.
This song samples the great soul singer Marvin Gaye’s Let’s Get It On, and since the original has a summery vibe, this one also ends up being a very hot track.
It’s the perfect song to blast on a steamy night while hanging out with friends, throwing your gunfingers in the air.
Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)The Offspring
As a killer tune perfect for the hot summer season, I’d like to recommend this track by The Offspring.
Released as a single from their September 1998 album Americana, it topped charts around the world.
The song satirizes white youths who imitate hip-hop and rap culture, showcasing a sharp, irony-laden sense of humor.
It’s a must-check for anyone interested in American pop culture or who loves ’90s punk rock.
I recommend listening to it in an air-conditioned room on a hot summer day.
Doo-Wop (That Thing)Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill is an artist who made a major impact in the neo-soul genre.
Her emergence helped bring widespread recognition to the very existence of female rappers.
Her distinctive flow also had a huge influence on the hip-hop scene that followed.
Lauryn Hill’s debut single was “Doo-Wop (That Thing).” Although a CD release wasn’t planned at first, the song gained word-of-mouth traction after being played on the radio, which led to its official release.
Its hip-hop-tinged, cool neo-soul sound is refreshing just to listen to.
Be sure to check it out!
TubthumpingChumbawamba
Chumbawamba, the English collective that drew global attention in the ’90s.
The song that catapulted them to fame is irresistible for its cheerful, unforgettable melody and boundlessly bright energy.
Its lyrics portray people who rise powerfully again and again no matter what difficulties they face, inspiring all who listen.
It’s truly an anthem celebrating indomitable spirit.
Released as a single in August 1997 and included on the album “Tubthumper,” it’s also known for its tie-in with the soccer game FIFA World Cup 98 and became a worldwide hit.
A feel-good track that perfectly matches the open, carefree mood of summer.
Shy GuyDiana King
Let me introduce a quintessential 90s summer anthem by Diana King, the Jamaican artist who took the world by storm.
This smash hit rides a smooth blend of reggae fusion and dancehall rhythms to express a woman’s passionate feelings for a shy man.
There’s even a story that she finished the lyrics in just ten minutes—a testament to her extraordinary talent.
Released in March 1995, the song remains a summer staple, featured on her debut album “Tougher Than Love” and included on the Bad Boys movie soundtrack, which propelled it to global fame.
It peaked at No.
13 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Perfect for sun-soaked days at the beach or summer drives, it’s also a powerful track that can give you that extra push to take a step toward someone you’re interested in.
You Get What You GiveNew Radicals
When it comes to the New Radicals’ hit songs, this is the one.
Released in the late ’90s as their debut single, it’s included on the album “Maybe You’ve Been Brainwashed Too.” The track centers on youth, taking on challenges, and the strength to overcome adversity, serving as an anthem for young people facing tough circumstances.
It climbed high on charts around the world and was so popular that VH1 named it one of the “Greatest One-Hit Wonders of the ’90s.” It also drew attention when it was performed at Joe Biden’s presidential inauguration in January 2021.
It’s the perfect song for when the summer heat is getting to you or you need a boost of energy.
Be sure to give it a listen.
California Love2Pac
Tupac is a key figure you can’t avoid when talking about West Coast hip-hop.
I think any head in Japan knows him.
He had both the quintessential West Coast rapper side and a highly lyrical, sensitive side.
The latter is best known for Dear Mama.
California Love falls into the former category, a top-tier track that distills the best parts of the mid-school era.
It’s a classic that lets you feel the heat of a California summer.
The Bad TouchBloodhound Gang
A song by the American satirical band Bloodhound Gang.
It features catchy melodies rooted in pop rock and inventive lyrics.
The content satirically depicts human sexual urges and animal courtship behavior, marked by distinctive humor and shocking expressions.
Released in September 1999, it became a major hit, reaching number one in countries such as Germany and Austria.
Issued as a single from the album “Hooray for Boobies,” it also drew attention on MTV.
Popular in dance clubs, it hit number one on Billboard’s Dance Club chart.
With playful lyrics and an upbeat groove, it’s perfect for party scenes—a recommended track for those intrigued by bold lyrics.
Freedom! ’90George Michael
This track bursts with a refreshing energy that blows away the summer heat of the 1990s.
George Michael’s powerful vocals leave a strong impression.
The lyrics, which express a yearning for freedom, resonated with many people.
It’s included on the album Listen Without Prejudice Vol.
1 and was released in October 1990.
The music video, featuring supermodels who were at the height of their popularity at the time, became a hot topic.
It’s the kind of song you’ll want to blast with the windows wide open on a hot summer day—perfect as background music for a drive, too.