The 411 Music Top Five 10.01.08: Absolute Best Singles Of The 1990s
Posted by Ben Czajkowski on 10.01.2008
From Metallica's "Enter Sandman" to Cher's "Believe" and Megadeth and "The Macarena", the 1990s were host to some of the best music in the latter part of the 20th century. 411Music writers throw their top 5 best singles of the 1990s into the ring. Check it out, and let us know what yours are!
Ah, the decade of mix CDs replacing mix tapes. No more having to fumble with cassettes or worrying about the tape getting stuck in the player. A decade where music lost its innocence and many stars were lost before their time. But like a great musician once said, "It's better to burn out than fade away."
So, what do we have for you this week? A lot. A whole variety of stuff that barely even breaks the ice. Nothing popalicious either. That comes next week, with Worst Singles of the 1990s. For now, enjoy what the 411 Writing staff calls the crem de la crème of the close to the 20th century.
[Mitch Michaels]
Honorable Mentions: Aerosmith - "What It Takes", R.E.M. - "Losing My Religion", Red Hot Chili Peppers - "Give It Away", Meat Loaf - "I'd Do Anything For Love (But I Won't Do That)", Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers - "Mary Jane's Last Dance", Beck - "Loser", Counting Crows - "Mr. Jones", Oasis - "Wonderwall", Foo Fighters - "Everlong"
5. Green Day - "Longview": Sure, Green Day's big breakout may have spawned the giant influx of pop punk bands that still plagues radio and MTV to this day, but damn if "Longview" didn't do it best. While Beck's "Loser" was considered the anthem of the slacker generation, "Longview" was a call to arms. Or hands as it were. Nothing captured the spirit of doing absolutely nothing all day while sitting on your parents' couch like this track and nothing ever will. Iconic video as well.
4. TupacShakur feat. Dr. Dre & Roger Troutman - "California Love": Not only was "California Love" Tupac's biggest hit, it was the single that propelled Pac's brand of hardcore rap onto the mainstream, reaching the top of the charts for two weeks in 1996. The effects of the track's popularity are still felt today, anytime you hear that weird talkbox effect - someone's copying Roger Troutman most likely through their knowledge of this smash single. "California Love" was to be Tupac's big comeback after serving a year in prison. It would lead to one more chart topper ("How Do You Want It") before Pac's tragic shooting death just a few months later.
3. Garth Brooks - "Friends In Low Places": Garth Brooks busted the doors down on country music in 1990 with this ultimate bar sing-a-long. Given Garth's work prior (a rodeo tune and the tear jerkers "If Tomorrow Never Comes" and "The Dance"), "Friends In Low Places" kind of came out of nowhere. But people were definitely biting. The song topped the charts for 4 weeks on the Country side and saw plenty of airplay on other formats thanks to its giant demand. People often accuse Garth Brooks of causing the large influx of pop country artists (those with little devotion to the traditions of the genre), but if you listen to his music, it couldn't be more country in both themes and arrangement. Sure, he covered Billy Joel a year later, but "Friends In Low Places" was about as ordinary of a country tune as you could get (just ask Mark Chesnutt, a country singer who actually recorded it first with no success). But when you couple in GB's uncanny knack for entertaining an audience, you've got a powder keg. Or a beer keg, rather.
2. Metallica - "Enter Sandman": One thing all of my Top 5 picks have in common is that they revolutionized their genre. That can certainly be said for "Enter Sandman", which sounded like it came from another (much blacker) world when it was being played against the just-from-the-80's pap of 1990. Sure, Metallica had broken into the national conscious with "One" in 1987, but this lead single from the Black Album proved that they were much more than niche appeal. They were coming for the world with fucking brute force, not unlike that big diesel that smashed through the kid's bed in the video.
1. Nirvana - "Smells Like Teen Spirit": What else? When you talk about TORE IT DOWN, Nirvana did it. People who talk about the sudden death of hair metal are not exaggerating. Nirvana took four bar chords and booted the spandex crowd right on their ass. You think it's a coincidence that Guns N' Roses has only released one (pretty bad) album since Nirvana broke through? The song's lyrics were impenetrable, just like Nirvana's image. The band was at once weird, pissed off, funny and totally cool. But the true appeal was that they were ordinary guys. Subordinary, really. The kind of freaks that you left alone to goof off in art class, who you'd never catch at a Friday night football game. The kids who managed to make it to detention but seemed too quiet to cause trouble. "Smells Like Teen Spirit" was an uprising of the uncool crowd, and anyone with a flannel shirt was invited for the next few years.
[Jesse Coy]
I went with bands I like, and I went with the range of styles and genres that somehow found their way to the radio, some more accidental than others… it's also alphabetical, so the numbers are irrelevant.
5. Cherry Poppin' Daddies – "Zoot Suit Riot": I could just as easily throw Squirrel Nut Zipper's "Hell" in here. Or Brian Setzer's "Jump, Jive an' Wail." I loved the resurgence of swing. Hated the movie Swingers, but love swing music. Unfortunately, the big record labels were only interested in this genre for a short period of time, and then dropped it like a hot potato.
4. Cypress Hill – "Insane in the Brain": What an awesome, dark hiphop album from which this one originates. As opposed to straight out gangster rap, which often bores me, I like much more rap acts that add a new angle or ethnicity to the mix. Cypress Hill was one such rap band, and this was a cool hit single. I'd throw House of Pain and Insane Clown Posse out there, too, who give different twists to the genre.
3. Nirvana – "Smells Like Teen Spirit": I will be fascinated to see who includes it as a loved 90's song and who includes it as a hated 90's song. I could substitute this with a Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, or Stone Temple Pilot selection, of course. My secret theory of why the record industry picked Kurt and company to push was that he was a bit more of a fuck up and easier to control than the frontmen of other "grunge" acts. This is definitely 90's.
2. Nine Inch Nails – "Closer": NIN are far from my favorite industrial act. For sure, I'd go with Skinny Puppy or Pigface over Trent's band. Or earlier Ministry. But none of those bands had the sort of radio airplay or hits that Trent had. And you have to admit, this one is quite amusing. He's carrying on with a tradition that you have from decade to decade… from the 50's "Good Golly Miss Molly" to the 70's "Big Balls" (can't think of a 60's song at the moment) to the 80's "Relax"… overtly sexual. I loved how "fuck" was fuzzed out on radio and video playing of this.
1. White Zombie – "More Human Than Human": Lots of great louder or heavier music found its way to the radio in the 90's. I probably could've thrown a Rage Against the Machine, Pantera, or Tool selection in for this. White Zombie (Rob Zombie) really resonated with the 90's, though. Anyone who remembers Beavis and Butthead knows this. Rob was also there with many other metal acts, merging industrial elements into a new metal industrial hybrid. This is an excellent, intense track.
[Storman Norman]
There are far too many great songs from the 90's, even with all of the lists that have been complied here we does not do justice to what the 90's meant to music, especially after the dreadful 80's. I guess it is true the music of your youth is the soundtrack of your life.
Honorable Mentions: Mariah Carey-"Emotions", Tupac feat. Dr. Dre-"California Love", Sublime-"Santeria", Red Hot Chilli Peppers-"Under the Bridge", Fugees- "Killing Me Softly", Too Short-"Cocktails", Naughty by Nature- "O.P.P.", Color Me Badd-"I Wanna Sex You Up"
5. Garth Brooks- "The Thunder Rolls": This is one of my all time favorite country songs. One of three #1 hits from his 1991 album No Fences and spent the most time at #1 out of the three. Although in 1991 I was only 9 years old and didn't really understand the magnitude of what the song was about, I was instantly drawn to the clashing of thunder and amazing instrument play. It was the first music video to air on GAC (Great American Country) network and earned him the CMA Music Video of the Year award.
4. Mariah Carey feat. Boyz II Men - "One Sweet Day": This #1 hit single, was featured on Mariah's Daydream album and was inspired by the death of B2M's manager David Cole. Not sure why the Boys and Mariah never teamed up again as it still holds the record for the most time spent at #1 (16 weeks) on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart. This sorrowful and optimistic ballad will always hold a special place in my heart, one sweet day mom, one sweet day.
3. Notorious BIG- "Juicy": This was our introduction to the original Bad Boy, "the N.O, T.O, R.I, O, U.S, you just lay down slow". It peaked at #3 on the U.S Rap chart and was song that chronicled his realization of a dream. A dream that every aspiring musician has, to go from obscurity to the lime light. Although it was out shined by the other two singles released from the Ready to Die album, "One More Chance" and "Big Poppa", I feel it is his best song. "It was all a dream…"
2. Dr. Dre feat Snoop Doggy Dogg- "Nuthin' But A "G" Thang": This single is one of the greatest rap songs ever! It was the second single that the D.O.C released as a solo artist and was also our introduction to a tall, lanky and corn-rowed Snoop Dogg. This west coast classic reached #2 on the U.S Hot 100 and spent significant time at #1 on both U.S Rap and R&B charts. "And if you bitches talk shit, I have ta' put the smack down".
1. Green Day- "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)": The best performing single from the 1997 two-time platinum album Nimrod. It peaked at #2 on the U.S Modern music charts. Initially written as a break-up song but due the reminiscing attitude of the song it becomes an international hit at ceremonial social occasions. I wonder how many people had this as their high school graduation song, I know I did. But for me the meaning goes far beyond that. You know how in movies before people die there is a montage of their life memories played to a song, well this would be the soundtrack to my life's montage. Every time I hear it the eyes kinda water and I begin to think about a few special memories.
[Matt Shoemaker]
5. AC/DC - "Thunderstruck": Quite possibly THE coolest song to experience live, ever. From the amazing guitar intro, to the sing along of "la la la la la la la la", to chanting "THUNDER" every few seconds, and finally to the wailing lyrics of Brian Johnson, this is just an incredible song.
4. In Flames- "Moonshield": This might not have been a mainstream single, but this is one of the best metal songs ever made, so I feel it deserved a spot on this list. With some incredible guitar work and an almost sorrowful melody at times, this song keeps you hooked from start to finish.
3. Dr. Dre – "Still D.R.E.": Maybe not one of the best songs of the 1990s, but definitely one of my favorites. The infectious beat, the incredible skills on the mic between Dre and Snoop, and the "can't help but love it" infectiousness of the song make this one of my favorites of the 90s.
2. Rage Against The Machine - "Killing in the Name": Who knew this band would have such an impact 16 years later. This became the ultimate "F Authority" song, and this was just the tip of the iceberg in terms of untapped potential. Tom Morello's innovative guitar work also helped a lot, as well.
1. Metallica – "Enter Sandman": Ahh, the Black Album. Supposedly, this was the beginning of the end for Metallica, but I disagree. This song is great; the catchy melody, pounding drums, and the creepy nursery rhyme in the middle. For me, this was Metallica's peak, and it definitely shows here.
[Jes Tones]
5. Dr. Dre - "Nothin' But A 'G' Thang": The '90s were a weird time. But I think one good thing I remember most about the '90s was the explosion of hip hop music and culture. It had been building throughout the late '70s and the 80s, but I don't think it really took hold until the '90s. And who better to get the party started than the infamous Dr. Dre?
4. Pearl Jam - "Jeremy": I know you're all moaning and groaning right now, but as a child of the '80s who lived through the '90s, I just can't pretend that the whole grunge period didn't happen and that nothing good came out of it. I could list a whole host of songs here by PJ or Nirvana...or even The Lemonheads (actually I probably SHOULD have given this spot to The Lemonheads), but when I thought back to that period of time, I just remember the impact the video for this song had on me. Intense and unforgettable.
3. Tupac Shakur - "I Get Around": Ok, no deep, introspective meaning here, but come on, you gotta love it. Sure, "Keep Ya Head Up" and "Brenda's Got A Baby" really said something, but, even as a female, this song was still my favorite.
2. The Notorious B.I.G. - "Juicy": "And if you don't know, now you know". Biggie! Rags to riches. What would the '90s be without Biggie? Classic album that never goes out of style. Shit, I just realized all of the artists in my top 3 are deceased...the '90s were dangerous!
1. Elliott Smith - "Angeles": This could really be any number of Elliott Smith songs--particularly off this album ("Either/Or")--"Speed Trials," "Alameda," "2:45AM," "Rose Parade"...you get the point. Although he flew relatively under the radar, Gus Van Sant nominally threw him into the spotlight after the release of "Either/Or", using two of its songs in Good Will Hunting. Smith's profound, poetic style had me hooked ever since...a tragic loss.
[Dan Marsicano]
5. Radiohead - "Creep": The song that put Radiohead on the map, "Creep" was a perfect representation of the early sound of the band. Their three guitar attack, passionate vocals from Thom Yorke, and the depressing nature of the song grasp the ears of teenagers worldwide. While the band would grow to resent the song, as it was their calling card for a long time, I still believe "Creep" to be one of the band's best tracks, and that's coming from the guy who loves O.K Computer.
4. Soundgarden - "Black Hole Sun": What a dark fucking song. "Black hole sun, won't you come and wash away the rain?" A perfect visual, which was driven by Cornell's pitch-perfect performance. Lead guitarist Kim Thayil's solo is one of the most memorable of the 90's and the underrated rhythm section of bassist Ben Shepherd and drummer Matt Cameron shining throughout the track. It's a memorable track and one that defines what the 1990's was all about, more so than anything from their contemporaries.
3. Slayer -"Dittohead": This is a strange choice, I know. Most people wouldn't put "best," "Slayer," and "1990's" in the same sentence, but hear me out. 1994's Divine Intervention was their first with new drummer Paul Bostaph. While the band was slowly progressing into incorporating elements of modern metal, with downtuned guitars and crappy solos (more so than usual) becoming the standard for Slayer's sound by the end of the decade, Divine Intervention had some monster thrash songs. "Dittohead" was one of them and is probably my favorite Slayer song of the 1990's just because of its intensity and furiousness, which was missing from most mainstream metal in the 90's. "Dittohead" could have been on any of their previous albums; that's how good it was. So while not the best single of the 90's, and one nobody will likely pick on the staff, I am here to give it some love and credit, which it deserves fully.
2. Red Hot Chili Peppers - "Give It Away": The first Red Hot Chili Peppers song that made an impact on the ears of mainstream rock listeners, "Give It Away" is a funky, catchy, and bass-full single that features fantastic performances from everyone involved. What else needs to be said? It's Red Hot Chili Peppers people!
1. Metallica-"Enter Sandman": Ah yes, the moment that Metallica "sold out" in the minds of metal fans worldwide. The video is sweet, the song is infectiously catchy, and the simplicity of the track actual works to the band's benefit, lending a certain clear heaviness that was lacking from earlier tracks. Say what you will about The Black Album, but the production on that kicks loads of ass and is one of the best of the 90's. "Enter Sandman" may be over-played, but aren't the best tracks the same way?
[Victorela Esponza]
I forgiva the editor a-this Top 5 list for not knowing who I am. It is true I take-a the title for 411Mania's best Under 60-Second Reviewer quite quick. I kinda like a flash-a-lightning. It all good. An' thanka so much ta lottsa new friends who senda me good wishes
5. The Cardigans – "Lovefool": Nina, she sucha beautiful Swedish girl. I meeta her at a party. I no talka much more bout this, only because I be a gentleman. Butta I know she write some of that song fer me. Make-a me happy every time I hear it.
4. The Bloodhound Gang – "Bad Touch": This song very popular all over Europe. Maybe even more popular than it was ina the U.S. It a good, honest song. An' you seea the video? They trap many Parisians. Maybe good, because none-a us here like Parisians. They needa be captured and shipped away, maybe to your state of Utah. Even Parisians don't like Parisians.
3. Red Hot Chili Peppers – "Give It Away": Maybe you notta know this, but they release this one in my country with a bonus giveaway, which be a sock. That be a penis and balls sock, which is good for many beaches very close to me. For a whole summer, we use-a our penis and balls sock, thanks to the Chili Peppers. Very good song, too.
2. Divinyls – "I Touch Myself": It a nice song that talka bout a subject I like to hear. But really, I tella you why I love this song so much. I visit Australia in 1990 and met this band playing at a club in Sydney. I no say this song be inspired bout me. But I no say it not, either.
1. Los del Rio - "Macarena": Only ones who no like this song probably been to sucka-the-balls scazz bar where fat spandex porkers an' balding, drooling lard asses do-a the dance. You need-a go to where you see-a some good models who do-a this dance, especially where they all do-a it with you.
[Dan Haggerty]
5. AC/DC – "Thunderstruck": For one brief moment the stars align for the folks down under and they catch the same lightning that made them bigger than life a decade earlier. The drums pound like canon shots at a party you wanted to attend while the guitar scorches with power chords a mile wide. You could say the song left you thunderstruck in its wake…
4. Ozzy Osbourne – "Mr. Tinkertrain": Largely overlooked due to the massive success of title track "No More Tears", but for my money this is the apex of Ozzy's solo career and hasn't been matched or surpassed since. Sung from the point of view of a child molester stalking victims, and built on the most sinister guitar parts ever delivered from Zakk Wylde, this is the perfect fusion of social commentary, crushing leads, and a great Zakk solo. For my money this dark evil song is the critical height, both musically and lyrically, of the Ozz-mans career.
3. Metallica – "Enter Sandman": OK. I've given this album some crap, and have even gotten down on this song for borrowing riffs from Ride The Lightning, but that doesn't change the pure awesome this brings to the table. An almost doom-y if accessible interpretation of the bands early output, but damn that man riff chugs like a freight train hell bent on reaching headbang-ville ahead of schedule. Certainly the apex of post thrash Metallica.
2. Judas Priest – "Painkiller": Yes, this was released as a single. After a decade of flirting with the mainstream, Judas Priest stormed back in 1990 to reclaim the metal kingdom they helped built. The title track from the same album, "Painkiller" is the typical martyr come destroyer of conventions that made Priest famous but updated for a new era. And while they were there, they raped and pillaged the countryside for good measure. Speed metal at its finest.
1. Megadeth – "Holy Wars… The Punishment Due": Yes, this was indeed a single, even if only in the UK. Damn shame because this is simply one of the greatest thrash/speed metal songs to ever get scorched into audio form; a track that was part of simply one of the greatest metal albums to sit at the right hand of Iommi himself. This is more controlled chaos than song, Dave and Marty ripping through this piece of molten metal like expert drivers barely keeping the red lined vehicle in control. Pure win on every front, so let it spin one or five times to digest the inhuman riff, lead, and solo exchanges delivered at the speed of technical mastery. Simply awesome.
[Ben Czajkowski]
The 1990s was definitely the most vivid decade of my life, for which most of it I was present (save for those few alien abductions and that slight coma). For me to choose 5 songs from the 1990s that I considered to be the best is more of an effort in an autobiographical sense. None of these were particularly defining moments in these artists' careers; however, each of them is a defining moment in my musical development.
Honorable Mentions: Boyz II Men – "On Bended Knee", Boyz II Men – "I'll Make Love To You", Verve Pipe – "The Freshmen", Fuel – "Bittersweet", Elton John – "Candle in the Wind", Whitney Houston – "I Will Always Love You", Natalie Imbruglia – "Torn", Edwin McCain – "I'll Be", and the list goes on…
5. Cher – "Believe": This is the only Cher song that I willingly know. I put this song in my top 5 not because of the fact that, yes, it is a kick ass electronic-esque tune, but because I have a lot of fun memories around it. One of my best friends and I used to drive around the actual Ghetto of Pittsburgh, playing this song. The car we were in was an '88 Oldsmobile, maroon. We'd cruise with the windows down and this song on loop. The looks we got, and some of the thing shouted at us, it was just all just so priceless. A good song to put on when you're feeling shitty about love, too.
4. Goo Goo Dolls – "Iris": Oh, God, this song was in cycle on the radio and video for almost forever. It became part of my morning rotation, when I'd watch VH1 while eating my English muffins. As far as tracks written, specifically, for a movie goes, this is top notch. However, after watching Shitty of Angels, this song lost a giant chunk of flavor on my mix CDs.
3. Nirvana – "Come As You Are": This is the first real "real" song that I remember hearing. Listening to this track for the first time was my awakening into the world of music. I owe it to my friend, Jamie, who introduced me to the beauty of Kurt Cobain. Granted, I'm not nearly as obsessed as she was with Cobain's life, but it'll be hard to ever forget this track. Or the CD single I bought for a few bucks, with sperm swimming around on the thick paper cover.
2. Alanis Morissette – "You Oughta Know": Ah. Canadian chick rock. Angry. Vindictive. Spiteful. Bitter. Do I need more adjectives for this? I don't think so. This Alanis track turned me on to what I lust after most: talent female artists, regardless of genre. This track reminds me that hearts hurts, lovers move on, and sometimes you don't. Comes in handy when I need to seethe for a while. The cover by The Killing Moon isn't half bad, either.
1. Seal – "Kiss From A Rose": This song has been solidly rooted at the number one position, all time, on any musical list I hand out. I can still remember the 1996 Grammies. Seal was the huge underdog, and everyone at the Grammy party picked someone else. I told them all, "No, Seal has this in the bag." Of course, I wasn't psychic when he won; I just firmly believed that an actual good song deserved to win the award. I was turned onto "Kiss From A Rose" after it was the featured single from that Batman movie that everyone has forgotten about, since The Dark Knight and the likes. However, for me, no artist can match the sheer talent, sincerity, and grace that went into this song. I once read an article that stated Seal was, in fact, Jesus Christ. If I wasn't an atheist, I might pretend to give that some thought.
Alright, folks. Thanks for reading. Here's what you should do. Enter your list in the comment's section.You do not have to register to comment. Here's how your list should look:
Honorable Mentions: If you have any...
5. Artist - "Song": Explanation of choice 4. Artist - "Song": Explanation of choice 3. Artist - "Song": Explanation of choice 2. Artist - "Song": Explanation of choice 1. Artist - "Song": Explanation of choice
Great topic. There are so many classic songs from the 90s.
5. Soundgarden - "Black Hole Sun": One of the best grunge tracks of the 90s.
4. REM - "Losing My Religion": The song that lifted them into superstardom.
3. Beck - "Loser": A modern classic. Perfectly captures the gen-X movement.
2. U2- "One": One of the best songs ever written.
1. Nirvana - "Smells Like Teen Spirit": The quintessential song of the 90s.
Posted By: matt (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Thank you, Jesse, for mentioning ICP and not following it with mass amounts of hatred. I know most people on Earth who aren't me have zero respect for a group like ICP, but I'd like to think we can all agree that they certainly bring something different to rap. Something that myself and a few other people love (and which, when combined with the efforts of The Geto Boys and Esham/NATAS, started an entire subgenre).
Ok, now I'll watch as all the other members of this board tell me how foolish I must be.
Posted By: Talon (Registered) on October 01, 2008 at 12:19 AM
These are my top 5 cause they will live on forever
5. Digital Underground-Humpty Dance
4.Billy Ray Cyrus-Achy Breaky Heart
3.M.C. Hammer-Can't Touch This
2.Fresh Prince-SummerTime
1. Vanilla Ice-Ice Ice Baby
All these songs people will always remember the lyrics to these songs
Posted By: Jeremy (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 12:23 AM
No Pantera or Limp Bizkit? Fuck this column.
Posted By: MBD (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 12:50 AM
1.Alice In Chains - Man In The Box. 2.TooL - Sober. 3.NIN - March Of The Pigs. 4.Nirvana - Heart Shaped Box. 5.Rage Against The Machine - Killing In The Name Of. Yeah something like that, sorry I went against the grain.
Posted By: thedouce (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 01:00 AM
No list, MBD? Fuck your comment! Go back to your forums.
Posted By: Stupid Commentors (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 01:02 AM
My personal five, aka the ones that made me like what I do now: 1) STP: Sex Type Thing, 2) Smashing Pumpkins: Cherub Rock, 3) Nirvana: Heart-Shaped Box, 4) Alice in Chains: Man in the Box, 5) Metallica: The Unforgiven
Honorable mentions that haven't been said yet - Dig: Believe, Offspring: Self Esteem, Matchbox 20: Push, Queeensryche: Silent Lucidity, REM: Man on the Moon, STP: Interstate Love Song, Tom Petty: Mary Jane's Last Dance
Posted By: Soy (Registered) on October 01, 2008 at 01:14 AM
Some of these lists are awful, when you consider that the topic was "best" singles and not "favorite" singles. There's absolutely no way you can make a case for a Megadeth song as the "best single" in any day, week, month, year, or decade.
Kudos to the Alanis Morissette mention--I think that was unquestionably the single of the 90s.
Posted By: JCullen (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 01:29 AM
5. Aerosmith "Livin on The Edge" - I freakin loved this video when I was a kid. Still look it up on YouTube every once and a while.
4. Soundgarden "Black Hole Sun" - Back in the 90s I was still stuck in my pop and country world, but this "alternative" song broke that barrier and rocked my world.
3. Blind Melon "No Rain" - This song had 90s written all over. Iconic video, one hit wonder, and a troubled lead singer.
2. Billy Joel "River of Dreams" - This along with my number one choice helped introduce me to a whole new set of music after growing up in a mostly "country music" home.
1. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers "Last Dance With Mary Jane" - If I had a band, we'd cover this song. I think its perfect and the first song I think of when someone says "90s music".
Posted By: Jasper (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 01:52 AM
I'm trying to comprise a list that doesn't include anything already mentioned. Nothing mentioned would make my top 5, but Black Hole Sun, Enter Sandman, Creep, Give it Away, The Bad Touch, and You Oughtta Know are all great.
Honorable Mentions: Paranoid Android--Radiohead; Bawitdaba--Kid Rock; Loser--Beck; Break Stuff--Limp Bizkit; Freak on a Leash--KoRn (That one was VERY close to making the list)
5.Tool--Ænema. I had to fit my favorite band somewhere on the list! This song is great, pointing out the superficiality of Los Angeles/California as a whole (no offense to anyone from there) and is flat-out hilarious in Maynard's delivery of a proposed apocalypse JUST for L.A. (learn to swim). Classic.
4.Hanson--MMMBop. Seeing as I grew up in the 90s, I sadly went through an "unhealthy" Hanson phase. No one can deny that this song practically owned 1997. How I turned out straight is beyond me.......
3.Rage Against The Machine--Bulls on Parade. This song just rocks, plain and simple. Easy formula for a song but has a uniquely awesome guitar solo and the song just drives forward the whole time.
2. Forgot About Dre--Dr. Dre featuring Eminem. If you're looking for 3 and a half minutes of non-stop rap, this is one of the greatest songs for that. There's never a quiet moment after the intro, and it just keeps going. This is one of those songs that if you learn the words to it, you better have some good lungs because otherwise you're bound to run out of breath. One of the catchiest melodies + two of the greatest rappers + three nonstop verses = Great Success!
1. The Eagles--Hotel California (from Hell Freezes Over). Technically not even close to being a 90s song, but this recording of the song is easily the best live performance captured on a cd that I've ever heard. I've heard this song a few hundred times over the years, and, although it takes up 7+ minutes of my time, I very rarely am able to skip it. Classic song.
Posted By: ToolFan (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 01:58 AM
5. Alice in Chains - Rooster
4. G n R - civil war
3. Michael Jackson - Man in the Mirror
2. Aerosmith - Janie's got a gun
1. Pink Floyd - Comfortably Numb
Posted By: cory (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 02:01 AM
hey ToolFan,
Forgot About Dre was off of the Chronic 2001 album, released in 2000. Better be doing your homework before posting your opinions.
Oh and it's pretty lame for you to be picking the Eagles Hotel California for a Top '90s song. Sure, it's the version off of HFO, but seriously? Its '90s songs for a reason, you've got plenty to choose from.
Also, to lump anything Radiohead has ever done with anything by Kid Rock, Limp Bizkit or Korn is sacrilegious. Please don't make this mistake again. Thank you.
Posted By: The truth shall set you free (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 02:36 AM
The Korn and Kid Rock was included because of their impact on the decade in music, regardless of their skill. And the Hotel California was a single, in the 90's, thus meeting the criteria. As for 2001, I saw Still D.R.E. in the column as a staff writers pick, so I figured it was 1999.
Sorry for having an opinion.
Posted By: ToolFan (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 03:12 AM
#1. Britney Spears "...Baby One More Time"
YEA GO BRITNEY
Posted By: cenasucks (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 03:24 AM
I wonder, do all the people who use "Time of your life" as the theme song for weddings, graduations etc. know the ACTUAL meaning of the song? Hint: There's a lot of sarcasm involved.
Also, "Victorela Esponza" Is now officially a gimmick.
As for the actual tracks, I do agree with quite a few on the list. "Enter Sandman" and "Smells like teen spirit" (as much as I hate it) deserve to be there. So does, Cher: "Believe", in a way.
I'd be bold enough to say Ricky Martin deserves a namedrop in there too. Dude put himself on the map with some catchy tunes, and there's no denying that. The football world cup theme song being one of them. Other choices are "Maria" and "Livin' La Vida Loca".
Posted By: synn (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 04:36 AM
Chronic 2001 was released in 1999.
Posted By: Guest#3331 (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 05:41 AM
So much good music from the 90's... In no particular order cause it's more memories than a ranking...
Honorable Mentions - Hook - Blues Traveler; Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit; Garbage - Stupid Girl; Joydrop - Beautiful; Soundgarden - Superunknown; KMFDM - Juke Joint Jezebel
5. Portishead - Glory Box : Not sure where I first heard it, but I remember falling in love with Beth Gibbons voice.
4. Foo Fighters - Everlong : The summer that I graduated from high school and spent alot of time listening to the radio. Then I heard the acoustic version he did on the Howard Stern show and it's stuck with me ever since.
3. Beastie Boys - Sabotage : The harder side of the Beasties. I appreciated License To Ill but Ill Communication was good stuff.
2. Insane In The Brain - Cypress Hill : One of the most awesome songs ever from a great album, Black Sunday.
1. Tool - Ænema : This was my first Tool song and it spawned an obsession with the band. Never really paid much attention to them until my friends roommate made me listen to them. Maynard's vocals, Adam's guitar, Justin's Bass and Danny's amazing drumming is just awesome.
Posted By: Kung Fu Janitor (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 05:47 AM
WHERE IS FEAR OF THE DARK?!
Posted By: rdx (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 06:38 AM
5. The Archers of Loaf - Web in Front: I grew up around Chapel Hill, and as far as I'm concerned this is the song that put the town and indie rock on the map. Others will differ with this, understandably so.
4. Weezer - Buddy Holly: How no one has tossed Weezer out into this list is beyond me. I kind of wanted to go with "The Good Life," but this was a much bigger single off of a much bigger record and launched these guys into the stratosphere.
3. They Might Be Giants - Istanbul(Not Constantinople): The rare instance of the cover not only being better than the original, but dwarfing it. Hendrix did it with Watchtower, that's the entire rest of the list.
2. Dr. Dre w/ Snoop Dogg - Nuthin' But A G Thang: Biggest Rap song ever, possibly even including Run-DMC and Aerosmith
1. Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit: Like it could be anything else. The dirty secret is that this is still a great single from a great album.
Posted By: The Doctor (Registered) on October 01, 2008 at 06:51 AM
Honorable Mentions: Smashing Pumpkins-1979, Tool-Aenema, Stone Temple Pilots-Interstate Love Song, Silverchair-Freak, Marilyn Manson-Tourniquet, Nirvana-Heart Shaped Box, Matthew Sweet-Girlfriend, Eric's Trip-Viewmaster,
5. Smashing Pumpkins - "Bullet With Butterfly Wings": Song that started an 8 year Pumpkin obsession.
4. The Tea Party - "The River": Seemed then to be heirs to the Jimmy Page throne of "middle eastern tinged rock"
3. Tricky Woo - "Let The Good Times Roll": Flaming acid rock, funneled through a garage rock format. Should have been much more well known.
2. Stone Temple Pilots - "Big Bang Baby": Catchy as hell. No junk = no soul.
1. Smashing Pumpkins - "Disarm": Having graduated high school in 2000, best singles of the 90's is a decent chart to my teen angst. This song meant a lot to me at the time, and was one of the first songs I learned on guitar.
Also, to Cory who posted earlier, unless you're talking about the live version of Comfortable Numb from P*U*L*S*E, you're two decades off.
Posted By: Hawkeye (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 08:37 AM
I have to agree that there were some lists that were missing, or off key. Here is my list, the true definition of the 90's/
5. Rage Against the Machine "Killing in the Name Of" Is there a bigger louder anti-authority/ f-u song than this?
4. Blind Melon - "No Rain" - wierd trippy, hippy-esque, which fit well in the retro feel of the decade
3. GreenDay - "Longview" - If 80's were 'greed is good', than the 90's is the slacker, watching whatever is on tv.
2. U2 - "One". A great simple ballad, a song from son to father about AISA.
1. Nirvana - "Smells Like Teen Spirit". Im a Nirvana fan, but they are not my favorite band. However no one song ever revolutionized music like this one song did.
Posted By: C.Drama (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 08:43 AM
SEAL ????:
YOU ARE A FN FAGGOT
Posted By: WOW (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 08:57 AM
The 1990's...thats way too many good songs to choose from in those formative teen years for me..ill go straight to my top 5: 5. The Thunder Rolls - Garth Brooks. First country song i ever liked and first exposure to Garth Brooks. 4. You oughta know- Alanis Morissette. My high school girlfriend's fave song at the time got me into listening more female singer/songwriters. Awesome acoustic version too. 3. Plush- Stone Temple Pilots. My best memory of this tune came from a karaoke contest in college my soph year. I sang this tune and it got me 2nd place. Good times. 2. Spoonman-Soundgarden. First exposure to Seattle rock thanks to my best friend at the time who was an aspiring guitarist. The well rounded excellence of the song made me a big fan of the band and rock ever since. 1. Killing in the name - RATM. Ah yes, first time i ever curse in English while singing...great track from a forward thinking band. And the guitar solo... The 90's...good times, great memories.
Posted By: Tap'n Beetle (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 10:02 AM
These songs may not be my favourite songs as of today, but it was these songs/bands that propelled me to what I am today, a metal head who is not dedicated to only ONE type of music. Broadened horizons if you will. This list explains the journey in my life in importance, not in timeline.
Honourable mentions: The Offspring - Come Out and Play, Green Day - Time of your Life, Bush - Little Things, Soundgarden - Pretty Noose, Goo Goo Dolls - Naked, and Limp Bizkit - Pollution (as sad as it sounds today)
5. Silverchair's "Israel's Son" - "Kurt Cobain is dead, and so am I if I can't find something to listen to!" Quote by everybody in my generation. We all know where we were when we heard Kurt Cobain died. No one could fill that void, but Silverchair, and 2 bands that will be mentioned later, did do a great job in helping me get through and realizing how much music is out there. For these Aussie's only being 15 when Frogstomp came out, it was truly inspiring for a musician at heart. I say at heart because I have learned over the years how terrible of a musician I really am.
4. Eminem's "My Name Is" - Eminem is one of the only MC's that has ever made me take a look at the genres of Rap and Hip-Hop. It was this song that started that phase for me. As I am a true metal head today and having my reasons for not falling into the rap scene, I thank Eminem and his skills for broadening my horizons and showing me a world I never want to be a part of again.
3. Korn's "Blind" - Did he really just say Korn? Yes, I most certainly did without hesitation. Why? Well, let me put it this way, if it wasn't for Korn's efforts in the 90's, most of you metal heads wouldn't be metal heads. If you deny listening to Korn in the past, you're lying! The fall of Nirvana drove most people to rap and r&b, where bands like Korn kept us from what I consider "The Dark Side of the Music Industry". Say what you will about this one, but saying you didn't listen to Korn is like saying you didn't listen to Limp Bizkit, as embarrassing as that is today for most.
2. Tool's "46 & 2" - I was just starting high school when this came out, and it's one of many songs that helped me find my identity and group of friends. Tool's music and lyrics have been a huge influence in my life up to today, but it was actually this song that started it all for me.
1. Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" - As sick of the song as I may be, I cannot deny the fact that at the tender age of 9, this is the song that broke me free from the plethora of terrible music I had endured in my prior years (Gowan, Richard Marx, etc. If it wasn't for Nirvana, I really don't know where I would be musically and as a person today.
Posted By: Tubby (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Once again a huge snub to the most consistent rock band in the last 25 years, R.E.M.
Tisk, tisk........
Also, Kudos to the guy that put the Macarena, it has the record for most consecutive weeks at number 1, thus meeting the criteria.
Posted By: Mike (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 11:00 AM
Honorable Mentions: "Symphony of Destruction" - Megadeth, "Killing in The Name of" - R.A.T.M., & "Cowboys From Hell" - Pantera
5. "Roots, Bloody Roots" - Sepultura
4. "Walk" - Pantera
3. "Davidian" - Machine Head
2. "Holy Wars.... Punishment Due"- Megadeth
1. "Fear of The Dark" - Iron Maiden
The Black Album fucking sucked, the only time "Enter Sandman" was any good was when Sandman used it as his entrance (and that was for the crowd reaction, NOT the tune itself)
Posted By: PJ (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 11:12 AM
Honorable Mentions:
Haddaway - What is Love: I don't own it, its artistic merit is near zero, don't hear it often, but damned if it doesn't get stuck in my head for the whole day when I do. A guilty pleasure.
Rage Against the Machine - Killing in the Name: just a damn good song, maybe my favorite Guitar Hero tune to play
House of Pain - Jump Around: can't hear it and not feel good
5. Green Day - Brain Stew: My favorite Green Day song pre-American Idiot
4. Dido - Thank You: Dido's voice is beautiful, and the sentiment is one we have all felt at some point, probably now if you own stock
3. Mariah Carey - Vision of Love: How can the top selling artist of the 90's only have made one list? Is this song idealistic and maybe a bit sappy? Sure, but the way she sang you felt it and I found it moving. It still hurts my brain how she shakes her ass now instead of singing.
2. Alanis Morissette - Ironic: Jagged Litle Pill was the best album of the 90's and several other songs could just as soon be placed here. But doesn't Ironic just sum up how life goes for many of us?
1. Metallica - Enter Sandman: If Kurt Kobain ended his life several years earlier, THIS may have been "the anthem of a generation". Not being malicious, just saying Enter Sandman exemplifies where I wish the 90's had gone musically. To me it represents the final chapter in the greatest era of music history, which is why mine is not the most tough guy list you'll see.
Posted By: Shockmaster (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 11:49 AM
"Smells Like Teen Spirit" is absolutely THE best single of the 90's as it single handedly drove a stake through the suck that was hair metal.
Posted By: wemedge (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 12:20 PM
"But doesn't Ironic just sum up how life goes for many of us?" - Shockmaster
It may do that, but logistically that song is a nightmare. None of the things she sings about are ironic in the least, they're just things that suck.
"10,000 spoons when all you need is a knife." That's not ironic. Ironic would be desperately needing a knife and then getting stabbed to death.
There's not a trace of irony in the song, it's just a bunch of similes for how crappy Alanis thought her life was then.
Posted By: Hawkeye (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 01:15 PM
honorable mention=Candlebox-you,filter-jurassitol,white zombie-im your boogieman,lifesexanddeath-tank,digital underground-humpty dance,skid row-getthe fuck out,cypress hill-insane in the brain,Extreme-tragic comic,LEnny Kravitz-it aint over til its over,MOtherlovebone-stardog champion,offspring- come out and play,Arrested development-people everyday,janes addiction-mountain song
5 Rancid-ruby soho/ A real punk band amongst the sea of posers
4 Temple of the Dog-the bridge between Mother love bone and Pearl Jam
3 ALice in Chains-angry chair.just a creepy ass song thats really cool
2Red hot chili peppers-suck my kiss.hey why else its from the funky monks
1 PearlJam-Dirty Frank. I know its a b-side but a song about a cannibal bus driver is funny as hell
Posted By: gutter (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 02:09 PM
I'll go with best singles, and these are not necessarily my favorites:
5: The Saga Begins, Weird Al: OK, I'm cheating with this one, but any song that can take the piss out off the Phantom Menace is worthy of inclusion IMO.
5 (really): We Shall Be Free, Garth Brooks: This is a fun blend of gospel, country and rock that is one of Garth's best tunes.
4: Walk, Pantera: One of the coolest riffs ever. This is just heavy and in your face for the duration of the song. Plus, the chorus can get just about any crowd pumping.
3: Lakini's Juice, Live: This song would have been iconic if Live had measured up to the promise of this song. This is just an awesomely nasty song. Unfortunately, the band essentially faded away from the mainstream after this record.
2: Smells Like Teen Spirit, Nirvana: While I considered this to be the song that ruined music for all time, and I laugh at the fact that the shelf life of grunge was less than one year after Cobain's death, I can't deny that this was a very cool song.
1: Enter Sandman, Metallica: The song that established Metallica as a mainstream act. It's a fine one as well, with one of the only videos they did that I actually liked.
Posted By: Michael L (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 02:28 PM
Hee-yaw, Hawkeye... yes, that has got to be one of the WORST songs. Do not title your song, Alanis, if you can't use the word properly. And this went to millions on the radio? Way to promote illiteracy.
Posted By: Jesse Coy (Registered) on October 01, 2008 at 02:40 PM
Hanson's 'MMBop'
Jay's 'Hard Knock Life'
Posted By: Guest#1163 (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 02:43 PM
Ben is such a prick most of the time that I end up beating my dog after reading his harebrained opinons in Fact Or Fiction out of sheer frustration. But then every once in awhile he steps up and knocks one out. His list owns this column. I'm shocked.
Posted By: The softer side of Ben (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 03:04 PM
5 SONGS THAT STOOD OUT MOST IN THE 90'S TO ME
5.SNOOP DOGG - MURDER WAS THE CASE
4.MARIAH CAREY - VISION OF LOVE
3.R.E.M - LOSING MY RELIGION
2.STONE TEMPLE PILOTS - PLUSH
1. TUPAC - DEAR MAMA
Posted By: JAMES (GUEST) (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 04:08 PM
Here are just a few of my faves:
5. Ministry - "Jesus Built My Hotrod" ('92) - Jesus built my car. It's a love affair. Mainly Jesus and my hotrod.
4. Hole - "Violet" ('94) - Screw the haters. Courtney rocks.
3. Massive Attack - "Protection" ('94) - Gorgeous tune, if you've never heard it
2. Beastie Boys - "So Whatcha Want" ('92) - The chorus is now stuck in your head. You're welcome.
1. Rollins Band - "Liar" ('94) - I had been listening to Hank for years and this was about the time that everyone finally came around to what I was digging on.
Posted By: JMAC (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 04:26 PM
5.)Nirvana: Smells Like Teen Spirit. Only grunge song worth listening to.
4.)Madonna: Express Yourself. The best Madonna song in the 90s.
3.) Nsync: Bye Bye Bye. Yea, I liked boy bands.
2.) En Vogue: Free Your Mind. Probably the best "message" song in the 90s.
1.) REM: Losing My Religion. Best song in the 90s. PERIOD!
Posted By: JLAJRC (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 04:29 PM
were is marilyn manson
Posted By: dakota (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 07:41 PM
Shit, I totally forgot about Hank.
5. Rollins Band-Liar
4. Eminem-My Name Is
3. Nirvana-Smells Like Teen Spirit
2. Limp Bizkit-Nookie
1. Pantera-Walk
Fuck any Limp Bizkit hater, a majority of you only hate them b/c some magazine told you to. You're probabaly the same kind of trendy poser who listens to emo. Which shows you have neither taste nor a backbone.
Posted By: MBD (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 08:27 PM
Fuck any Limp Bizkit hater, a majority of you only hate them b/c some magazine told you to. You're probabaly the same kind of trendy poser who listens to emo. Which shows you have neither taste nor a backbone.
Posted By: MBD (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 08:27 PM
Well, I hate Limp Bizkit because I choose to, not some magazine. Actually, allow me to rephrase that. I hate Fred Durst. The rest of the band is actually talented. Hell, John Otto is one of the most technically sound drummers around. BUT. Fred Durst is a massive tool, whose shitty rapping brings absolutely nothing to music. While you're entitled to your opnion in thinking that Limp Bizkit is some HoF worthy band, labelling anyone who thinks they suck a "trendy poser" and listening to emo is a bit ridiculous. And not liking Limp Bizkit doesn't show a lack of taste. Personally, I think it shows some pretty damn good taste.
Posted By: Guest#0195 (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 09:21 PM
Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit is the #1 song of the 90's. Every other song is just there.
Posted By: BZA (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 09:58 PM
5) One Sweet Day - Mariah Carey Ft. Boys 2 Men very great song!!
4) Thank God I Found You - Mariah Carey very good song i really enjoy lisetening to it!
3) Fantasy - Mariah Carey i can relate to this song!!
2) Always Be My Baby - Mariah Carey this song is one of my favorites of all time next to We Belong Together.
1) Dreamlover - Mariah Carey my fav song of the 90's!
Posted By: F.0. (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 10:22 PM
Wow, uh...much of a Mariah Carey obsession there? I think you need to diversify a bit there :P
Posted By: Ben Czajkowski (Registered) on October 01, 2008 at 10:28 PM
mariah carey and boyz 2 men??? youre having a joke my friend, surely u must. ive never even heard of boys 2 men.
5. nirvana 'heart shaped box' - just a really dark sounding song and a genius video.
4. blur 'parklife' - this song is really catchy, its more infectious than the clap. a great pop tune
3. REM 'losing my religion' - the 90s karaoke tune. the song that made them superstars
2. Green Day 'basket case' - over 10 years later and its stll the angry teens air guitar anthem. great power chords at the start
1. Oasis 'live forever' - great drum intro, great melodies, great guitar solo. one of the greatest songs ever, that song WAS the 90s
Posted By: mane o shac (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 11:29 PM
5 Fantasy - Mariah Carey. This song brought Hip Hop into the pop song market. Everyone was dancing to this song.
4 How Do I Live - Leann Rimes This song was one of the longest songs in the top 100. It made country music cool again
3 Ordinary World - Duran Duran. This song is awesome. This put Duran Duran back on the map in 93 for pop music
2 On Bended Knee - Boy II Men once ruled the R&B charts
1 Love Takes Times - Mariah Carey. By far the best song of the 1990's. This song made me a fan of hers. This song was so huge that her record company asked the press to stop to include on her debut album. This song was supposed to be for Mariah's 2nd cd but was pressed on her first album. Enough Said. Beautiful song from a Beautiful Lady.
Posted By: Brett (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 11:29 PM
5. foos - monkey wrench
4. ocean colour scene - hundred mile high city
3. radiohead - paranoid android
2. oasis - dont look back in anger
1. supergrass - alright
Posted By: bobby jum (Guest) on October 01, 2008 at 11:32 PM
perhaps the greatest song EVER recorded Jeff Buckleys Halelujah should get some love, the most haunting song ever!!!
Posted By: josh (Guest) on October 02, 2008 at 05:31 PM
Wow. To the people upset with whats on the lists, calm down. Music is an open subject ment to be interpreted differently by everyone.
Posted By: Jasper (Guest) on October 05, 2008 at 01:51 AM
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I am from Vietnam and learning to read in English, give please true I wrote the following sentence: "Looking for cheap airline ticket? Stop!! We offer the cheapest flights, hotel rooms, rental cars and friendly online or call booking."
Thank you so much for your future answers :-). Fonda.
Posted By: Fonda (Guest) on March 22, 2009 at 06:59 AM
