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[For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic and Popular Western Hits from the 1990s

When it comes to the Western music scene of the 1990s, in the United States new movements like alternative rock and grunge upended rock’s values, while hip-hop and R&B made dramatic leaps forward, producing countless classic works.

Looking to the UK, Britpop erupted as something of a counter to America’s alt boom, giving rise to globally renowned bands like Oasis and Blur.

Of course, the major pop sphere churned out massive hits one after another, and the underground scene also thrived.

It’s impossible to cover all Western music from the 1990s, but this time, under the theme of “big-hit Western songs,” we’re bringing you a beginner-friendly selection of ’90s hits!

[For Beginners] A roundup of iconic Western hit songs from the ’90s (41–50)

Kiss MeSixpence None The Richer

Sixpence None The Richer – Kiss Me (Official HQ)
Kiss MeSixpence None The Richer

A signature song by a Texas-born CCM band with a female vocalist, released in 1997.

The soft, gentle pop sound and Leigh Nash’s tender voice, which delivers a timeless melody, have a calming effect on listeners.

In 2015, it was featured in a commercial for Canon EOS Kiss, and the song has since been loved across generations here in Japan.

The one I’m infatuated withFaye Wong

A cover of The Cranberries’ “Dreams” used as an insert song in Wong Kar-wai’s film Chungking Express.

The movie and the song helped Faye Wong break through in Japan, and—alongside the now widely recognized Wong Kar-wai and Takeshi Kaneshiro—it stands as an emblematic track of the mid-1990s.

You Gotta BeDes’ree

Des’ree – You Gotta Be (’99 Mix) [Video]
You Gotta BeDes'ree

A song by Des’ree, a singer-songwriter and soul singer from London, UK, that became the catalyst for her global recognition.

Backed only by a beautiful piano melody at first, her vocals—and later, her voice when the band joins—both convey a comforting gentleness infused with power, making it a truly pleasant number.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)
Don't Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis is a British rock band that gained immense worldwide popularity and achieved great success.

This is their masterpiece, a truly iconic song.

More recently, it became known for being sung by the people of Manchester in tribute after the terrorist attack in their hometown.

It remains a beloved song that transcends time.

PhilosophyBen Folds Five

Ben Folds Five – Philosophy (Live on Jools Holland)
PhilosophyBen Folds Five

Here’s a track from the leading figure of piano rock who burst onto the scene just as guitar rock was dominating.

Despite being guitar-less, they quickly drew attention with a ferocious piano that rivals any guitar and a brilliant sense of melody.

They’re called Five, but they’re a trio.