[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 (31–40)
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!
If You Could Only SeeTonic
Tonic is an American band that made their debut in 1996 with the album Lemon Parade.
The single If You Could Only See became a hit, climbing high on Billboard’s airplay charts.
Thanks to its popularity, it even appeared in video games, making it a song that can be seen as emblematic of 1990s alternative rock.
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.
The WayFastball
Fastball is a rock band from Texas that rose to popularity in the 1990s with a sound rooted in alternative rock and pop rock.
They’re still active today and even have passionate fans in Japan.
Among their works, a particularly recommended summer song is The Way.
It’s a track with a Latin flair that depicts a couple running away together.
The decadent lyrics and melody match perfectly, so be sure to give it a listen.
Only Wanna Be With YouHootie&The Blowfish
This song is “Only Wanna Be With You” by Hootie & The Blowfish.
Hootie & The Blowfish are a rock band formed in Columbia, South Carolina, in the United States.
The vocalist, Darius Rucker, has such a wonderfully gritty voice! Also, their debut album Cracked Rear View, which includes this song, ranked 19th on the list of best-selling albums in the United States.
[Western Music] Summer songs that hit in the '90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks (41–50)
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!
You Were Meant For MeJewel
The ’90s were a time when female vocalists were especially distinctive in their own ways.
This is “You Were Meant for Me” by Jewel, a singer-songwriter from the United States.
It’s included on the album “Pieces of You.” The way she sometimes murmurs the lyrics gives the song an added sense of realism.
It’s definitely a track you’ll want to listen to after a breakup!