[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 (51–60)
(I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With YouUB40
Originally a song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1961.
This version by UB40 was released in 1993 and became their biggest hit, spending seven weeks at No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
The track was used in the film “Sliver,” starring Sharon Stone and William Baldwin.
Cruel Summer (Bananarama Cover)Ace of Base
Ace of Base is a music group from Sweden.
With a sound centered on adult contemporary, Europop, and techno, they gained popularity in the 1990s.
They were also popular in Japan, where Eurobeat enjoys unusually high popularity.
Among their works, a summer song I especially recommend is Cruel Summer (Bananarama Cover).
Since it’s a cover of a song by the English girl group Bananarama, be sure to compare it with the original.
Run-AroundBlues Traveler
Blues Traveler is a band that gained popularity in the 1990s with a distinctive rock sound rooted in blues and folk rock.
Their harmonica-driven style, which felt like a return to the good old days of music, was refreshingly new at the time.
This song became their biggest hit, and in 1996 it earned the band their first Grammy Award.
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.
Ice Ice BabyVanilla Ice
Vanilla Ice was one of the best-selling rappers of the ’90s.
He broke through by turning Hip Hop—then dominated by slang-heavy and explicit lyrics—into something poppy and accessible to the mainstream.
He’s also known as a pioneering white rapper.
His big break came with 1990’s “Ice Ice Baby.” The “Ice Ice” in the title doesn’t refer to Vanilla Ice himself; it means “super cool.” It’s an irresistibly upbeat track, perfect for a drive.
All StarAll Star Smash Mouth
“All Star” is a hit single from Smash Mouth’s 1999 album Astro Lounge.
Seamlessly blending rap and rock elements, the track became one of the band’s signature songs.
Its music video, packed with comedic, short-film-style gags, is another highlight and continues to be played around the world.
Til I Hear It From YouGin Blossoms
In the early 1990s, when grunge and alternative rock sounds were popular, Gin Blossoms gained popularity with their uniquely refreshing rock.
Their song “Til I Hear It From You” was produced as the theme song for the 1995 comedy film Empire Records.
It’s a track with a catchy, pop-leaning melody that sticks with you.
I Need to KnowMarc Anthony
Released in 1999, the classic hit “I Need to Know” became a worldwide sensation.
At the start of the following year, 2000, it won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.
The song’s American singer, Marc Anthony, is also well known as an actor.
Along with the sound of Latin instruments, another highlight is the lyrics.
His struggle to understand what a woman feels is something men of any era can relate to.
With its catchy Latin-pop melody, it’s perfect for a summer vibe!
Smooth ft. Rob ThomasSantana
Smooth, the classic released on June 29, 1999 by the San Francisco band Santana.
Centered around charismatic guitarist Carlos Santana, the band was formed in San Francisco and is known for its passionate Latin sound.
With their large lineup—including a brass section and percussionists—they create a sound only they can express.
This track features Rob Thomas, the vocalist of the popular ’90s rock band Matchbox Twenty, as the lead singer.
It’s a perfect song for a heat wave!
