[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 (41–50)
Sex And CandyMarcy Playground
Marcy Playground is an American alternative rock band.
This song, which combines a calm tone with a distinctive melody, strongly conveys their unique worldview influenced by 1970s music, and it was later covered by Maroon 5.
The song became a huge hit in the United States and Canada, and its mysteriously atmospheric music video is also a must-see.
FantasyMariah Carey
A song that samples Tom Tom Club’s 1981 hit “Genius of Love.” It was released as a single in 1995.
The rap that appears at the beginning and end of the track is by Ol’ Dirty Bastard.
The music video was filmed at Rye Playland, an amusement park in New York.
Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana
Although they were active for only seven years, Nirvana produced numerous classic songs.
Even those who aren’t rock fans might recognize the band fronted by Kurt Cobain.
One of their iconic tracks, released in 1991, is “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” This song quickly became a social phenomenon and is synonymous with Nirvana.
With its quintessentially rock sound and lyrics, it’s a perfect choice for background music during summer workouts.
All I Wanna DoSheryl Crow
Sheryl Crow is an American female singer who gained popularity in the 1990s with a music style centered on country and western.
She’s known for mixing various genres, and in “All I Wanna Do,” you’ll find verses that approach hip-hop and chord progressions reminiscent of jazz, all woven into a very unique melody.
Overall, the track has a western finish, making it a perfect piece for a summer evening.
Thong SongSisqo
Sisqó, a member of the 1990s R&B group Dru Hill, is known for his smoother sound compared to their club beats.
This track was released as a single in 1999 and features soulful vocals and a distinctive pumping beat.
Two PrincesSpin Doctors
It’s the song Two Princes by Spin Doctors, an alternative rock band based in New York.
It’s included on their 1991 album Pocket Full of Kryptonite.
Just listening to it lifts your spirits—an energizing rock tune.
The innovative performance of scatting within alternative rock is fantastic, too!
Whoomp! (There It Is)Tag Team
A song released as a single by Tag Team in 1993.
The phrase “Whoom! There It Is” is said to have originated from Florida strippers working in Atlanta.
It was a popular dance club track and samples the song “I’m Ready” by the Italian group Kano.
LovefoolThe Cardigans
A song with lyrics by lead singer Nina Persson and music by guitarist Peter Svensson.
Released as a single in 1996, it became an international hit.
It has been featured in the 1999 film “Cruel Intentions” and the TV series “Beverly Hills, 90210.”
Give Me One ReasonTracy Chapman
A simple blues love song written in the 1980s by American singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman and released in 1996.
It is included on the album New Beginning.
The album reached No.
4 on the Billboard album chart, and the single of this song was certified platinum.
Give Me One ReasonTracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman is a female singer-songwriter who performs songs with powerful messages in an acoustic guitar-and-vocals style.
As an African American, she has been involved in many social movements.
One of her signature songs is Give Me One Reason; included on her 1995 album New Beginning, it became the biggest hit of her career.