[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!
- Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs of the 90s
- 90s Rock Revolution! A Collection of Masterpieces by Western Bands That Colored the 90s
- Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the ’90s
- Western songs from the 90s featured in commercials. A roundup of CM songs.
- Tearjerkers! A roundup of moving Western songs that were hits in the ’90s
- All masterpieces! Western pop ballads that were hits in the ’90s
- Debut songs by female Western artists from the 1990s
- [Back to the '90s!] Dance Music from Western Hits of the 1990s
- [Western Music] Summer songs that were hits in the ’90s: Recommended classics and popular tracks
- Love songs in Western music that were hits in the ’90s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- [90s Western Films] Theme Songs & Insert Songs: Nostalgic Classics
- 2000s Western pop hits you still hear in commercials, movies, and on the streets
- Hits that resonate across generations! Popular 1990s songs on TikTok
[For Beginners] A Roundup of Iconic and Popular Western Hit Songs of the 1990s (111–120)
Jump AroundHouse Of Pain
It’s a hit song that was played constantly in clubs in the ’90s.
Just listening to the track, you’d think it was by a Black hip-hop group, but I was shocked to learn that actually isn’t the case.
That’s The Way Love GoesJanet Jackson
It’s the smash hit released in 1993 by Janet Jackson—Michael Jackson’s younger sister and one of America’s quintessential singer-songwriters.
Those who experienced it in real time may fondly remember the Japanese title “Sore ga Ai to Iu Mono Dakara” (“Because That’s What Love Is”).
With its smooth, mellow groove, it stands as an R&B classic that defined the 1990s.
Hey DudeKula Shaker
A signature track and killer tune by Kula Shaker, who emerged in the late Britpop era of the ’90s and gained popularity with a sound that fused 1960s-style rock ’n’ roll with Indian music.
Released in 1996, it reached No.
2 on the UK Singles Chart.
Including frontman Crispian Mills’s handsome looks, the band enjoys strong popularity in Japan as well.
Rock Is DeadMarilyn Manson
Marilyn Manson is known for his heavy sound and shocking performances.
The 1998 track included on the album Mechanical Animals stands apart from his earlier violent metal sound, coming closer to pop rock.
It was also used on the soundtrack for the film The Matrix and achieved major commercial success.
The lyrics criticize the commercialization of rock music and the loss of its essence, calling the state of the music industry into question.
Its message, rich in irony, really makes listeners think.
As a song that symbolizes the rock scene of the ’90s, it’s definitely worth a listen.
Rising SonMassive Attack
This work leaves a striking impression with its dark, mysterious atmosphere.
As pioneers of trip-hop, Massive Attack deliver a sound that evokes a deep forest.
Released in January 1998 as the lead single from the album Mezzanine, it reached number 11 on the UK charts.
Its dense sonics are marked by heavy use of dubby effects and reverb.
The lyrics, depicting a struggle to break free from power and social constraints, resonate deeply with listeners.
The track’s composition, which samples The Velvet Underground’s I Found a Reason, is masterful.
It’s a song brimming with mature allure—one you’ll want to hear while walking through the city at night.