[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)
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.
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.
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.
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!
[Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks (21–30)
Steal My SunshineLen
With its light piano rhythm and crisp sound that are perfect for summer, Len’s “Steal My Sunshine,” by the Canadian alternative rock band, fits the bill.
Released as a single in 1999, it reached No.
9 on the U.S.
charts.
That same year, it was also featured in the films “Peter Rabbit” and “Go.” The music video, where they sing on a beach under dazzling sunlight, also oozes summer vibes.
Its bright, poppy sound is enough to make you happy just by listening, making it a great pick for summer outings.
