[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 classics and popular tracks (21–30)
Walkin’ On The SunSmash Mouth
Formed in 1994, Smash Mouth is a charismatic rock band that still enjoys a passionate following.
Their debut single is Walkin’ On The Sun.
While it’s rock, it also has strong reggae elements, making it the kind of track that makes you want to gently sway as you listen.
Even after 2000, Smash Mouth continued producing songs with a retro flair.
Their nostalgic vibe is perfect for summer evenings, so be sure to check them out.
Say You’ll Be ThereSpice Girls
A song by the Spice Girls recorded at producer Eliot Kennedy’s home studio.
It was released in 1996.
The music video, in which the members play fictional characters, was filmed in the Mojave Desert and won Best Video at the 1997 Brit Awards.
One HeadlightThe Wallflowers
The Wallflowers are an American rock band fronted by Jacob Dylan, the son of Bob Dylan.
Although they struggled to find success for some time, their 1996 album “Bringing Down the Horse” was a major hit, and the music video for “One Headlight,” included on the album, was also highly acclaimed.
As the title suggests, the lyrics—“let’s keep going even with just one headlight”—convey the importance of not giving up.
Don’t SpeakNo Doubt
This is the song “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt, a punk band led by the queen of Western rock, Gwen Stefani.
The track is included on their third album, Tragic Kingdom.
It’s a very emotional love song.
Gwen delivers the heartrending melody with passion.
It’s almost unfair that she can sing not only with a powerful voice, but also with a whispery, sultry tone!
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.
StarlightThe Supermen Lovers (feat. Mani Hoffman)
The Supermen Lovers, a French music producer who dominated the dance music scene from the late 1990s to the early 2000s, captivated many fans with a unique sound that fused disco and house.
Their signature track, which sings of urban dreams and longing, was released in January 2001.
It features Mani Hoffman’s striking vocals and a catchy beat.
The song achieved international success, topping dance charts in multiple countries.
It’s the perfect track to play on a summer night drive with friends.
Be sure to check it out.
JumpKriss Kross
A song by the hip-hop duo Kris Kross, who were 13-year-old teenagers at the time.
It samples the bassline from The Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back.” It was their most successful song and became a hit in the United States as well as in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
I’ll Be Missing YouPuff Daddy ft. Faith Evans & 112
A tribute to the rapper The Notorious B.I.G., who died at age 24 on March 9, 1997.
It samples The Police’s song “Every Breath You Take.” It features vocals by The Notorious B.I.G.’s wife, Faith Evans, and the R&B group 112.
Roll To MeDel Amitri
A ballad released as a single in 1995 by the Scottish pop-rock band Del Amitri.
It became a hit in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Its comical music video is featured in the Beavis and Butt-Head TV series episode titled “Prank Call.”
I Love You Always ForeverDonna Lewis
This is the song “I Love You Always Forever” by Donna Lewis, a singer from the UK.
It’s included on her 1996 album Now in a Minute.
Donna Lewis’s clear, translucent vocals and the understated synthesizers create a mysterious atmosphere that’s wonderful.
The track builds toward the end, making it a very satisfying listen.