90s Songs: 23 Tracks That Are All That and a Bag of Chips

This teen pop anthem made Britney a household name. With its schoolgirl-themed video and undeniable hook, it helped launch a wave of pop artists and ushered in a new era of bubblegum brilliance.

The unofficial anthem of the grunge scene, this track was more than a hit: It was a cultural shift. With distorted guitars and angst-laden lyrics, it gave voice to a generation fed up with polished pop.

Mariah's hit fused her angelic vocals with a hip-hop edge, featuring Ol' Dirty Bastard. It was a bold move that helped redefine the sound of pop and R&B.

This empowering hit about trust and self-respect combined killer harmonies with futuristic production. It became one of Destiny’s Child’s signature hits, paving the way for Beyoncé's solo superstardom.

J.Lo’s debut single brought Latin flair and sultry energy to the charts. It was the start of a music career that matched her movie star persona.

Christina showed off her powerhouse vocals and playful side in this pop classic, proving she could hold her own against any pop princess of the time.

Combining soul, hip-hop, and social commentary, this track was both a throwback and a warning shot. It showcased Lauryn's lyrical prowess and timeless message.

Toni Braxton poured raw emotion into this mega-ballad about heartbreak and loss. Its cinematic quality and soaring chorus made it unforgettable.

A fusion of country, pop, and sass, this song let the world know Shania had no time for nonsense. A crossover hit that lit up the charts and dance floors.

A mosh pit favorite with an unforgettable horn sample, this hip-hop hit had everybody, well, jumping. Still a party starter to this day.

With a DIY music video and sample-heavy beat, this electronic anthem proved dance music could be weird, wonderful, and chart-topping.

TLC kept it real with this anthem for women tired of settling. Their blend of R&B, girl power, and catchy hooks made it a defining moment in 90s pop.

A cornerstone of West Coast hip-hop, this track brought laid-back swagger and tight production that changed the sound of rap forever.

Fueled by rage and wit, this alt-rock hit showed a woman rocking with emotional complexity and lyrical bite. It became a feminist anthem overnight.

This haunting trip-hop ballad explored vulnerability and strength in equal measure. With its sultry delivery and cinematic feel, it became a cult favorite.

Bouncy and bright on the surface, dark underneath, this alt-rock gem hid some of the decade’s most troubling lyrics behind an unforgettable chorus.

This track combined funk, hip-hop, and lyrical playfulness. OutKast didn’t just rap; they redefined what hip-hop could be.

With guitar riffs, lyrical angst, and Natalie’s aching vocals, this alt-pop track became a global hit and an emotional go-to for breakup playlists.

This dreamy, emotional ballad showcased Dave Matthews Band's knack for blending jam-band musicianship with poetic storytelling—a 90s favorite that still gets hands swaying.

With a Halloween-themed video and infectious chorus, this track became one of the group's most iconic hits. It cemented their place at the top of the boy band scene.

If you wanted friendship with a side of girl power, this was the anthem. "Wannabe" introduced the world to the Spice Girls and became a global pop phenomenon.

A tribute to the late Notorious B.I.G., this emotional track blended rap, gospel, and Sting's "Every Breath You Take" into a 90s classic about grief and remembrance.

Janet celebrated life, loss, and love in this upbeat tribute to friends who had passed. With a danceable beat and heartfelt lyrics, it became one of her most enduring songs.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.