The 1990s was a decade of incredible musical innovation, and the singers of the era were no exception. The 1990s saw the rise of many pop, R&B, and rock icons who became household names, paving the way for a new generation of artists to follow. These singers brought a fresh perspective to the industry, introducing new sounds and styles that captivated audiences across the globe.
The singers of the 1990s were known for their powerful vocal abilities, dynamic stage presence, and unique fashion sense. Many of these performers were known for their incredible range and ability to belt out high notes, while others focused on emotive and soulful performances that captivated audiences with their emotional depth. With the advent of music videos and MTV, singers in the 1990s also became known for their visual flair and innovative music videos that often featured elaborate choreography and special effects.
From the soulful R&B of Whitney Houston to the angsty grunge rock of Kurt Cobain, the singers of the 1990s were incredibly diverse, representing a range of genres and styles. The music of the 1990s has continued to influence artists to this day, and the singers of the era have left an indelible mark on the industry.
1. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, known as the “King of Pop,” was a singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor who rose to fame in the 1980s and became one of the most influential and iconic figures in popular culture. Born in Gary, Indiana, Jackson began performing as a child with his brothers in the group The Jackson 5, before launching a successful solo career in the late 1970s.
With his electrifying stage presence, innovative music videos, and chart-topping hits, Jackson revolutionized the music industry and inspired generations of musicians and fans. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, with a distinctive voice and unforgettable dance moves that continue to influence artists today.
Despite his immense success, Jackson’s personal life was marred by controversy and allegations of abuse, which continue to be debated and scrutinized to this day. However, his impact on popular culture and music cannot be denied, and his music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world. Jackson passed away in 2009, but his legacy and influence on music and culture will continue to be felt for generations to come.
2. Elton John
Elton John is an English singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who rose to fame in the 1970s. Born Reginald Kenneth Dwight in 1947, he began playing piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. He formed his first band, Bluesology, in 1962, and began working as a session musician for other artists.
In 1967, he met lyricist Bernie Taupin and the two began collaborating on music together. They released their debut album “Empty Sky” in 1969, but it wasn’t until the release of their fourth album “Honky Château” in 1972 that they achieved commercial success.
Elton John’s flamboyant stage presence, catchy melodies, and emotional ballads quickly made him a superstar, and he went on to become one of the most successful and influential musicians of all time. He has sold over 300 million records worldwide, won multiple Grammy Awards, and been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
In addition to his music career, Elton John is also known for his philanthropy work, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS. He founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992, which has raised over $450 million to support HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment programs around the world.
3. Prince
Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson, was an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and actor who was one of the most influential and innovative musicians of his generation. He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1958, and started playing music at a young age, joining his first band in high school.
Prince’s music style was a blend of funk, rock, R&B, and pop, and he was known for his eclectic and flamboyant fashion sense, as well as his captivating live performances. He was a master of various instruments, including the guitar, piano, drums, and bass, and his music was noted for its complex arrangements, provocative lyrics, and bold experimentation.
Over the course of his career, Prince released numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, including “Purple Rain,” “Sign o’ the Times,” and “1999,” among others. He was also a prolific songwriter, having written songs for various artists, including Chaka Khan, The Bangles, and Sinead O’Connor.
Prince was known for his unique and boundary-pushing style, both musically and in terms of his public persona. He was a fiercely private individual and often shunned the media, but his influence on the music industry and popular culture is undeniable. He passed away in 2016, but his legacy as one of the greatest musicians of all time lives on.
4. Madonna
Madonna is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman who rose to fame in the 1980s. Born in 1958 in Michigan, she moved to New York City in the late 1970s to pursue a career in music. After signing with Sire Records in 1982, Madonna released her self-titled debut album the following year, which included the hit songs “Holiday” and “Borderline.”
Throughout her career, Madonna has pushed boundaries with her music and performances, challenging social norms and breaking down barriers for women in the entertainment industry. Her iconic fashion sense and provocative music videos have made her a cultural icon and a symbol of female empowerment.
Madonna has sold over 300 million records worldwide, making her the best-selling female recording artist of all time. She has won multiple Grammy Awards and been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In addition to her music career, Madonna has also acted in films and has written children’s books.
Madonna’s influence on popular culture is immeasurable, and she continues to be a trailblazer for women in music and beyond.
5. Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston was a singer, actress, and model who rose to fame in the 1980s with her powerhouse vocals and hit songs. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Houston grew up singing in her church choir and began pursuing a music career as a teenager. Her self-titled debut album, released in 1985, quickly became a smash hit, with chart-topping singles like “Saving All My Love for You” and “How Will I Know.”
Over the course of her career, Houston became one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with numerous hit songs and albums, including the iconic soundtrack for the movie “The Bodyguard,” which featured her rendition of “I Will Always Love You.” Her voice, range, and emotion-filled performances captivated audiences around the world and cemented her status as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
Despite her incredible success, Houston also faced personal struggles, including drug addiction and a tumultuous marriage to singer Bobby Brown. She tragically passed away in 2012 at the age of 48, but her music and legacy continue to inspire and touch millions of fans around the world.
6. Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur was an American rapper, actor, and activist who is considered one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of hip-hop music. Born in New York City in 1971, Shakur grew up in poverty and was exposed to violence and crime at a young age. Despite these challenges, he developed a passion for music and began performing as a teenager.
In the early 1990s, Shakur rose to fame with a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “2Pacalypse Now,” “Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z.,” and “All Eyez on Me.” He was known for his raw, powerful lyrics that tackled issues such as poverty, racism, and police brutality. Shakur also had a successful career as an actor, appearing in films such as “Poetic Justice” and “Above the Rim.”
However, Shakur’s life was tragically cut short when he was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas in 1996 at the age of 25. His death sparked widespread mourning and controversy, and he has since become a symbol of the struggles and injustices faced by young black men in America. Despite his short career, Tupac Shakur’s impact on music and popular culture continues to be felt to this day.
7. Shania Twain
Shania Twain is a Canadian country music singer and songwriter known for her genre-blending sound that incorporates elements of country, pop, and rock. She has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Born in Ontario, Canada, Twain began her career singing in bars and clubs before releasing her debut album in 1993. It was her second album, 1995’s “The Woman in Me,” that propelled her to international fame, thanks to hit singles like “Any Man of Mine” and “Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?” She continued to dominate the charts with subsequent albums, including “Come On Over,” which became the best-selling country music album of all time.
In addition to her success as a musician, Twain has also dabbled in acting and television, appearing in movies like “I Heart Huckabees” and serving as a judge on the reality singing competition “The Voice.”
Twain’s music has earned her numerous awards and accolades, including five Grammy Awards, 27 BMI Songwriter Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her unique sound and catchy, empowering lyrics have made her a beloved figure in both the country and pop music worlds.
8. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress. She is considered one of the greatest vocalists of all time, known for her powerful and versatile vocal range spanning five octaves. Carey began her music career in the early 1990s and quickly rose to fame with hits such as “Vision of Love,” “Hero,” and “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
Throughout her career, Carey has sold over 200 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She has won numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards, 19 World Music Awards, and 10 American Music Awards. Carey is also known for her collaborations with other artists, including Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men, and Jay-Z.
Aside from her music career, Carey has also dabbled in acting and television, appearing in films such as “Glitter” and “Precious,” and serving as a judge on “American Idol” and “The Voice.” She is also a philanthropist and has been involved in various charitable organizations throughout her career.
9. Céline Dion
Céline Dion is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and actress who has become one of the most successful and celebrated artists of all time. Born in Quebec in 1968, Dion began her career in the 1980s as a French-language performer. She rose to international fame in the 1990s with hits like “The Power of Love” and “My Heart Will Go On,” the latter of which was featured on the soundtrack for the blockbuster film Titanic.
With her powerful voice and emotive delivery, Dion has become known for her ability to convey deep emotions through her music. She has won numerous awards throughout her career, including five Grammy Awards and two Academy Awards. In addition to her music career, Dion has also acted in films and television shows, and has been a mentor and inspiration to many young performers.
Despite experiencing personal tragedy in her life, including the loss of her husband and longtime manager René Angélil, Dion has continued to perform and create music that resonates with fans around the world. Her legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time is secure, and she continues to inspire and uplift audiences with her music.
10. Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who is known for her influential contributions to popular music and entertainment. Born in Gary, Indiana in 1966, Jackson is the youngest of the famous Jackson family and began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age. She first gained fame as a child actress on the television series “Good Times” and “Fame” before transitioning to music.
Jackson’s breakthrough album, “Control” (1986), established her as a major force in pop and R&B music. The album features hits such as “What Have You Done for Me Lately” and “Nasty,” which showcased Jackson’s distinct sound and style. Over the course of her career, Jackson has continued to evolve and innovate in her music and performances, blending elements of pop, R&B, and hip hop to create a unique sound and aesthetic.
In addition to her music career, Jackson is also an accomplished actress and dancer. She has starred in several films and television shows and has been recognized for her contributions to dance with multiple awards and honors. Throughout her career, Jackson has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has been honored with numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
11. Alanis Morissette
Alanis Morissette is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter known for her emotive and powerful voice and deeply personal lyrics. She rose to fame in the mid-1990s with her album “Jagged Little Pill,” which sold over 33 million copies worldwide and won several Grammy Awards. Morissette’s music blends elements of rock, pop, and alternative genres, with themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.
Born in Ottawa, Canada, Morissette began her music career as a child actor and then as a pop singer in the early 1990s. However, it wasn’t until the release of “Jagged Little Pill” in 1995 that she achieved mainstream success. The album’s lead single, “You Oughta Know,” became a hit, and its angsty lyrics and edgy sound resonated with audiences. Morissette’s subsequent albums continued to showcase her raw, confessional style and her willingness to tackle difficult subjects like mental health and addiction.
In addition to her music, Morissette is also known for her activism and advocacy work. She has been outspoken about her struggles with depression and eating disorders and has worked to promote mental health awareness. She is also an advocate for environmental causes and has supported organizations like the Rainforest Action Network and Greenpeace. Despite taking a hiatus from music in the mid-2000s to focus on her family, Morissette remains a respected and influential artist, both for her music and her activism.
12. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. He was born on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California. Snoop Dogg began his career in the early 1990s, and rose to fame with his debut album “Doggystyle,” released in 1993. The album was a commercial success and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Snoop Dogg’s unique style of rap incorporates a laid-back, smooth delivery that complements his lyrics, which often focus on his experiences growing up in Long Beach and his love for marijuana. He has released numerous hit songs and albums over the years, including “Gin and Juice,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” and “Sensual Seduction.”
Snoop Dogg is also known for his collaborations with other artists, including Dr. Dre, Tupac Shakur, and Katy Perry. He has won multiple awards for his music, including three MTV Video Music Awards, two BET Awards, and one Billboard Music Award.
In addition to his music career, Snoop Dogg has also appeared in a variety of movies and TV shows, including “Training Day,” “Half Baked,” and “The Beach Bum.” He is also a philanthropist, and has been involved in numerous charitable causes over the years.
13. Beyoncé
Beyoncé is a global superstar and one of the most successful and influential artists of her generation. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, she rose to fame as a member of the girl group Destiny’s Child in the late 1990s before embarking on a successful solo career in the 2000s. Her music is known for its fusion of R&B, pop, hip-hop, and soul, and her powerful vocals and dynamic performances have captivated audiences around the world.
Throughout her career, Beyoncé has received numerous awards and accolades, including 28 Grammy Awards and recognition as one of the most successful female artists of all time. She is also known for her activism and philanthropy, using her platform to promote social justice and equality.
In addition to her music career, Beyoncé is also a successful actress and entrepreneur, with ventures in fashion, beauty, and media. Her influence extends beyond music, and she has been described as a cultural icon and a feminist role model for women around the world. With her talent, artistry, and dedication, Beyoncé has left an indelible mark on the music industry and popular culture.
14. Britney Spears
Britney Spears is an American singer, dancer, and actress who rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s as a pop icon. Born in Mississippi in 1981, Spears got her start as a child star on the Disney Channel’s “Mickey Mouse Club.” She burst onto the music scene in 1998 with her debut single “…Baby One More Time,” which quickly became a global hit and solidified her status as a pop princess.
Spears’ music career continued to thrive throughout the early 2000s, with hit singles like “Oops!… I Did It Again” and “Toxic.” She also established herself as a dynamic performer, known for her energetic dance routines and captivating live shows.
Despite her immense success, Spears has faced personal struggles in the public eye, including a highly publicized breakdown in 2007. She has since worked to rebuild her career and personal life, and has continued to release music and perform live shows.
Throughout her career, Spears has become a cultural icon, known for her fashion sense and influence on pop music and entertainment. She has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to music and popular culture.
15. Cher
Cher, born Cherilyn Sarkisian, is an American singer, actress, and television personality. She is often referred to as the Goddess of Pop, and her career has spanned over six decades. Cher’s music has been incredibly influential, with her unique contralto voice and ability to blend various musical genres, including pop, rock, and disco. She has had numerous chart-topping hits, including “I Got You Babe,” “Believe,” and “If I Could Turn Back Time.”
In addition to her music career, Cher has also had success as an actress, winning an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Moonstruck.” She has also appeared in numerous films, including “Silkwood,” “The Witches of Eastwick,” and “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.”
Throughout her career, Cher has been a fashion icon, known for her daring and often outrageous costumes. She has also been an outspoken advocate for LGBT rights, HIV/AIDS research, and various other social causes.
Cher’s impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable, and her music and performances continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.
16. Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame in the early 1990s with his unique blend of traditional country music and rock and roll. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Brooks was raised in a musical family and began playing guitar and singing as a teenager. He moved to Nashville in the late 1980s and released his self-titled debut album in 1989, which included the hit single “If Tomorrow Never Comes.”
Brooks quickly became one of the most successful country music artists of all time, selling more than 150 million records worldwide and winning numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and 17 American Music Awards. He is known for his high-energy live performances, often incorporating rock and roll elements into his shows, and for his distinctive voice and songwriting style.
Brooks has released numerous chart-topping albums and hit singles throughout his career, including “Friends in Low Places,” “The Dance,” and “Thunder Rolls.” He has also collaborated with other artists, such as Trisha Yearwood and Chris Gaines. Despite taking a hiatus from touring and recording in the early 2000s, Brooks returned to the music industry in 2009 and has continued to release new music and perform live shows to this day. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful country music artists of all time.
17. Sheryl Crow
Sheryl Crow is an American singer-songwriter known for her blend of rock, pop, and country music. She was born in Missouri in 1962 and started her music career as a backup singer for Michael Jackson and Don Henley before releasing her debut album, “Tuesday Night Music Club,” in 1993.
The album was a critical and commercial success, featuring hit singles like “All I Wanna Do” and “Strong Enough.” Crow’s distinctive voice and catchy songwriting made her a mainstay on the charts throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, with hits like “If It Makes You Happy” and “Soak Up the Sun.”
In addition to her music career, Crow is also an outspoken environmental activist, advocating for sustainable living and renewable energy. She has used her platform to raise awareness about environmental issues and has even released an album, “Threads,” featuring collaborations with other artists to raise money for environmental charities.
Throughout her career, Crow has won multiple Grammy Awards and has been recognized for her contributions to music and philanthropy. She continues to release new music and tour, cementing her status as one of the most enduring and beloved voices in American music.
18. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill is an American singer, rapper, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame in the 1990s as a member of the hip hop group Fugees, before embarking on a successful solo career. Born in New Jersey in 1975, Hill grew up in a musical family and started her career in entertainment as an actress on the TV soap opera “As the World Turns.”
Hill’s career breakthrough came in 1996 with the release of Fugees’ album “The Score,” which became a critical and commercial success. Hill’s powerful vocals, socially conscious lyrics, and innovative blend of hip hop, R&B, and reggae helped the album sell millions of copies worldwide.
After the breakup of Fugees, Hill released her solo debut album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” in 1998, which earned widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards. The album explored themes of love, motherhood, and social justice, and cemented Hill’s status as a cultural icon.
Despite her success, Hill has been known for her reclusive nature and personal struggles, including legal issues and disputes with the music industry. Nonetheless, her influence on the worlds of music, fashion, and culture is undeniable, and her legacy continues to inspire artists and fans alike.
19. Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez, also known as J.Lo, is a multi-talented artist who has made her mark in the entertainment industry as a singer, actress, dancer, and producer. She was born on July 24, 1969, in the Bronx, New York, and began her career as a dancer on the television show “In Living Color” in the early 1990s. In 1999, she released her debut album “On the 6” which included the hit songs “If You Had My Love” and “Waiting for Tonight,” both of which topped the charts.
Lopez has released multiple successful albums over the years, including “J.Lo” and “This Is Me…Then.” She is known for her ability to infuse different genres into her music, including pop, hip-hop, and Latin. Her music has earned her numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Award nominations.
In addition to her music career, Lopez has also had a successful acting career, starring in films such as “Selena,” “Maid in Manhattan,” and “Hustlers.” She has also served as a judge on popular television shows like “American Idol” and “World of Dance.”
Overall, Jennifer Lopez is an influential and talented artist who has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry through her music, acting, and various other ventures.
20. Kurt Cobain
Kurt Cobain was an American musician and songwriter who rose to fame as the lead singer and guitarist of the iconic grunge band Nirvana. Born in Aberdeen, Washington in 1967, Cobain grew up in a tumultuous household and began experimenting with music at a young age. He formed Nirvana in 1987 with bassist Krist Novoselic and drummer Dave Grohl, and the band quickly gained a following with their raw and emotional sound.
Nirvana’s second album, Nevermind, released in 1991, propelled the band to superstardom with the hit single “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Cobain’s lyrics and music spoke to a generation of disaffected youth, and his charismatic stage presence and unique style made him a cultural icon. However, Cobain struggled with drug addiction, depression, and chronic pain throughout his career.
In 1994, Cobain tragically took his own life at the age of 27. He left behind a legacy as one of the most influential musicians of his generation, and Nirvana’s music continues to resonate with fans around the world. Cobain’s impact on popular culture is still felt today, as he remains a symbol of artistic authenticity, rebellion, and youthful angst.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
