The 1990s was a decade of transformation in music. Genres like grunge, hip-hop, pop, and alternative rock defined the soundscape, reflecting a time of cultural and technological shifts. From socially conscious rap to angst-fueled grunge and polished pop, the music of the 90s remains iconic, still echoing across playlists and influencing artists today. Here’s a look back at ten of the decade’s most definitive tracks, each song a timeless window into the era’s diverse and vibrant music scene.

1. Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (1991)

Few songs are as synonymous with the 90s as Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” As the anthem of grunge, it propelled Kurt Cobain and his bandmates to the forefront of the alternative rock explosion. With its raw, unfiltered energy, heavy guitar riffs, and Cobain’s raspy vocals, the song perfectly encapsulated the angst and disillusionment felt by Generation X, essentially putting Seattle on the musical map. It’s a track that not only helped define a genre but also challenged the music industry, opening doors for countless alternative bands that followed.

2. TLC – “Waterfalls” (1994)

TLC’s “Waterfalls” fused smooth R&B rhythms with a socially conscious message, addressing issues like addiction and HIV—a rarity in pop songs of the era. With unforgettable harmonies by T-Boz, Left Eye, and Chilli, it resonated deeply with listeners, becoming a cultural touchstone. Its hauntingly beautiful lyrics and sophisticated sound showcased TLC’s ability to tackle heavy subjects without sacrificing commercial appeal, making it one of the defining songs of 90s R&B.

3. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg – “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” (1992)

Representing the birth of G-funk, Dr. Dre’s “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” changed the landscape of hip-hop. With its smooth, laid-back beat and Snoop Dogg’s cool, effortless delivery, the track painted a vivid picture of West Coast life, capturing listeners with its style and swagger. It played a huge role in popularizing hip-hop in mainstream culture, marking a turning point for the genre as it moved from underground to global.

4. Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You” (1992)

Originally a country song by Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston’s powerful rendition for The Bodyguard soundtrack became an unstoppable force, demonstrating her incredible vocal range and emotional depth. Its universal message of love and loss struck a chord worldwide, topping charts and shattering records. The song epitomizes the power ballad of the 90s, giving Whitney an enduring place in pop music history.

5. Britney Spears – “…Baby One More Time” (1998)

Britney Spears’s debut single exploded onto the pop scene with catchy hooks, an infectious beat, and the unforgettable “Hit me baby one more time” chorus. It announced the arrival of teen pop in a major way, setting the stage for the wave of pop stars to come. With this song, Britney not only became the face of late-90s pop but also redefined the genre, turning it into a worldwide cultural phenomenon that would continue to shape pop music well into the 2000s.

6. R.E.M. – “Losing My Religion” (1991)

A haunting exploration of doubt and introspection, “Losing My Religion” brought R.E.M.’s alternative rock sound to the mainstream, using a mandolin-driven melody and Michael Stipe’s signature vocal delivery to convey a sense of yearning and emotional depth. Though cryptic, the song’s themes of uncertainty and vulnerability resonated with audiences, giving alternative music a permanent place in the 90s mainstream.

7. The Notorious B.I.G. – “Juicy” (1994)

“Juicy” is a quintessential rags-to-riches story, set to a memorable beat and backed by Biggie’s unparalleled storytelling ability. The track celebrates his rise from hardship to success, capturing the aspirations and realities of countless listeners. As one of Biggie’s most iconic songs, “Juicy” has become a hip-hop anthem, laying the foundation for the East Coast rap scene and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest rappers of all time.

8. Alanis Morissette – “You Oughta Know” (1995)

With raw, unapologetic lyrics and a powerful vocal performance, “You Oughta Know” established Alanis Morissette as the voice of a generation’s frustrations, particularly for women. The song’s aggressive alternative rock sound and searing lyrics about betrayal gave it an edge that resonated with audiences worldwide. Alanis redefined what a female rock artist could be, opening doors for a more diverse array of voices in rock music.

9. Radiohead – “Creep” (1992)

Although Radiohead would later distance themselves from this early hit, “Creep” became an anthem for anyone feeling like an outsider. With its haunting melody and Thom Yorke’s vulnerable vocals, it captured the inner conflict of self-doubt and yearning for acceptance. Despite its melancholic tone, “Creep” achieved mainstream success, bridging the gap between alternative rock and the mainstream and paving the way for the experimental path Radiohead would soon embark on.

10. Mariah Carey – “Fantasy” (1995)

“Fantasy” was not only a massive pop hit but also a groundbreaking track that brought hip-hop to mainstream pop. By sampling Tom Tom Club’s “Genius of Love” and featuring rapper Ol’ Dirty Bastard on a remix, Mariah Carey helped pioneer the blend of pop and hip-hop that would dominate charts for years to come. With its infectious beat and Carey’s vocal prowess, “Fantasy” remains an irresistible slice of 90s pop, showing her versatility as a trendsetter in the music industry.