[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)
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.
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.
Hootie & the BlowfishI Go Blind Hootie & The Blowfish
It’s the song I Go Blind by the American rock band Hootie & The Blowfish.
In fact, the song was originally released by the Canadian rock band 54-40.
Hootie & The Blowfish covered it, and their version was used in the hugely popular TV show Friends.
As a result, the song was played repeatedly on the radio and climbed high on the charts, becoming even more popular than the original.
Be sure to listen to both versions and compare them!
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.
Rockafeller SkankFatboy Slim
One of Fatboy Slim’s biggest hits, released in 1998.
It’s such a famous track that many of you have probably heard it before.
Unlike typical techno music, this piece features dramatic changes in tempo and mood throughout, making it highly dynamic.
It was released as the lead single from his second album, “You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby.” The song peaked at No.
6 on the UK Singles Chart and earned a Platinum certification.
Highly recommended if you’re looking for something interesting!
CreepTLC
TLC, the three-member girls’ group that became a social phenomenon in the ’90s.
These days, when we hear “girls’ group,” we tend to imagine idol groups singing cute songs.
But back in the ’90s, groups like TLC, who centered their music on hip-hop, were in the spotlight.
By the way, TLC is recognized as the best-selling girls’ group in the world.
One of their signature tracks is Creep.
Its boldly provocative lyrics and old-school beat create an unexpectedly breezy vibe.
If you’re looking to cool off with some music in the summer heat, definitely give it a listen.