1996 was a year that saw the emergence of some of the most iconic and memorable songs in popular music. From R&B and hip-hop to pop and rock, 1996 was a year that produced a diverse range of hits that would go on to become classics. Some of the greatest songs from 1996 include “Tha Crossroads” by Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, “Wannabe” by Spice Girls, “No Diggity” by Blackstreet and Dr. Dre, “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly, “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” by Celine Dion, “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” by Backstreet Boys,These songs have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by audiences around the world.
1. “Wannabe” by Spice Girls
“Wannabe” by the Spice Girls is a pop classic that was released in 1996. The upbeat and catchy tune was an instant hit, reaching number one in more than 30 countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. The lyrics, written by the group members, express the desire to find a man who will treat them right and be their best friend. The song’s fun and empowering message, along with its memorable chorus, helped launch the Spice Girls into superstardom and cemented their place in pop culture history. “Wannabe” remains a popular song, widely recognized and loved by fans of all ages, making it a true anthem of female empowerment and friendship.
2. “Change the World” by Eric Clapton
“Change the World” is a song by Eric Clapton that was released in 1996. It is a soft rock ballad that features Clapton’s signature bluesy guitar playing and emotional vocals. The song’s lyrics express the desire to make a positive impact on the world and bring about change for the better. With its simple, yet powerful message, “Change the World” has become an anthem for those who believe in the power of love and compassion to bring about positive change. Clapton’s timeless performance and the song’s uplifting message have made it a staple of his live performances, and a fan favorite for over two decades. “Change the World” is a beautiful example of Clapton’s ability to craft moving and thought-provoking songs that resonate with listeners.
3. “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly
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“I Believe I Can Fly” is a song by R. Kelly that was released in 1996. It is a powerful ballad that showcases Kelly’s soulful and emotional vocal range. The song’s uplifting lyrics encourage listeners to believe in themselves and their ability to achieve their dreams, no matter what obstacles they may face. “I Believe I Can Fly” has become one of Kelly’s most popular and enduring tracks, and its message of hope and empowerment has resonated with listeners all over the world. The song has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in several films and television shows, solidifying its place as a modern classic. With its timeless message and soulful delivery, “I Believe I Can Fly” remains a powerful anthem for anyone who believes in the power of their dreams.
4. “Tha Crossroads” by Bone Thugs-n-Harmony
“Tha Crossroads” is a song by Bone Thugs-n-Harmony that was released in 1996. It is a rap ballad that reflects on death, loss, and the afterlife, and serves as a tribute to the group’s fallen friends and family members. The song’s powerful and emotional lyrics, paired with its smooth harmonies, make it a standout track in Bone Thugs-n-Harmony’s discography. “Tha Crossroads” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. The song has become a classic in the world of hip hop, and its impact on the genre has been widely recognized. With its moving message and powerful delivery, “Tha Crossroads” remains a powerful tribute to the lives of those who have passed and a reminder of the impact that they continue to have on the world.
5. “Return of the Mack” by Mark Morrison
“Return of the Mack” is a song by Mark Morrison that was released in 1996. It is a classic R&B track with a smooth and soulful groove that features Morrison’s powerful and distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics are a testament to Morrison’s confidence and resilience, as he declares his return to the top after facing setbacks and obstacles. “Return of the Mack” became a massive hit, reaching the top of charts in several countries and earning Morrison international recognition. Its catchy chorus and unforgettable melody have made it a staple of R&B and hip-hop playlists, and a popular choice for sampling by other artists. With its infectious energy and confident message, “Return of the Mack” remains a classic of the genre, and a testament to Morrison’s enduring musical legacy.
6. “Don’t Let Go (Love)” by En Vogue
“Don’t Let Go (Love)” is a song by En Vogue that was released in 1996. It is a soulful R&B ballad that showcases the group’s signature harmonies and powerful vocals. The song’s lyrics express the importance of holding on to love, even when times are tough, and the fear of losing it all. With its emotional delivery and soaring chorus, “Don’t Let Go (Love)” quickly became a hit, reaching the top of charts and earning critical acclaim. The song has been covered by numerous artists and remains a fan favorite for its timeless message and soulful performance. En Vogue’s dynamic vocal arrangements and powerful performances have made them one of the most successful female groups of all time, and “Don’t Let Go (Love)” is a testament to their lasting impact on the world of R&B and popular music.
7. “Ironic” by Alanis Morissette
“Ironic” is a song by Alanis Morissette that was released in 1996. It is a mid-tempo alternative rock track that features Morissette’s distinctive voice and clever lyrics. The song’s lyrics highlight the humor and frustration of everyday ironies, such as rain on your wedding day and a traffic jam when you’re already late. With its catchy chorus and memorable moments, “Ironic” became a hit and helped to establish Morissette as one of the leading voices of the 90s alternative music scene. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of modern rock radio and a fan favorite. “Ironic” is a perfect example of Morissette’s ability to write clever and thought-provoking lyrics that resonate with listeners, and a testament to her enduring impact on the world of music.
8. “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” by Backstreet Boys
“Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” is a song by Backstreet Boys that was released in 1996. It is a pop ballad that showcases the group’s signature harmonies and emotional lyrics. The song’s lyrics express the frustration of a person who is tired of being played by their love interest, and pleads for them to be honest about their feelings. With its powerful chorus and memorable melody, “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Backstreet Boys as one of the leading boy bands of the 90s. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of pop radio and a fan favorite. “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)” is a perfect example of Backstreet Boys’ ability to create catchy and emotional pop music, and a testament to their enduring impact on the world of music.
9. “I Love You Always Forever” by Donna Lewis
“I Love You Always Forever” is a song by Donna Lewis that was released in 1996. It is a soft rock ballad that features Lewis’ ethereal voice and dreamy melodies. The song’s lyrics express the depth and constancy of true love, and the assurance that it will last forever. With its catchy chorus and haunting melody, “I Love You Always Forever” became a hit, reaching the top of charts and earning Lewis international recognition. The song has been covered by numerous artists and remains a popular choice for wedding ceremonies and romantic events. With its timeless message and beautiful delivery, “I Love You Always Forever” is a classic of the soft rock genre, and a testament to Donna Lewis’ musical talent and enduring legacy.
10. “Last Night” by Az Yet
“Last Night” is a song by R&B group Az Yet that was released in 1996. It is a smooth and soulful ballad that features the group’s signature harmonies and heartfelt lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe a passionate and romantic night shared between two lovers, and the longing to relive that moment again. With its catchy chorus and memorable melody, “Last Night” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Az Yet as one of the leading R&B groups of the 90s. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of R&B and hip-hop playlists and a fan favorite. “Last Night” is a perfect example of Az Yet’s ability to create smooth and soulful ballads, and a testament to their lasting impact on the world of R&B and popular music.
11. “Barely Breathing” by Duncan Sheik
“Barely Breathing” is a song by singer-songwriter Duncan Sheik that was released in 1996. It is a soft rock ballad that features Sheik’s distinctive voice and introspective lyrics. The song’s lyrics express the feeling of being stuck in a relationship that is slowly dying, and the struggle to find a way out. With its haunting melody and emotionally charged delivery, “Barely Breathing” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Duncan Sheik as a leading voice in the alternative rock scene. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of adult contemporary and modern rock radio and a fan favorite. “Barely Breathing” is a perfect example of Duncan Sheik’s ability to write introspective and emotionally charged songs, and a testament to his enduring impact on the world of music.
12. “Twisted” by Keith Sweat
“Twisted” is a song by R&B artist Keith Sweat that was released in 1996. It is a smooth and soulful slow jam that features Sweat’s distinctive voice and passionate lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe the feelings of intense desire and longing for a love interest, and the irresistible attraction between two people. With its catchy chorus and memorable melody, “Twisted” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Keith Sweat as one of the leading voices in the R&B genre. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of R&B and hip-hop playlists and a fan favorite. “Twisted” is a perfect example of Keith Sweat’s ability to create smooth and soulful slow jams, and a testament to his lasting impact on the world of R&B and popular music.
13. “Say You’ll Be There” by Spice Girls
“Say You’ll Be There” is a song by the Spice Girls that was released in 1996. It is a pop-dance track that features the group’s signature harmonies and upbeat lyrics. The song’s lyrics express the desire for a lover to be there for the singer, both in good times and bad. With its catchy chorus and memorable melody, “Say You’ll Be There” quickly became a hit and helped to establish the Spice Girls as one of the leading pop groups of the 90s. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of pop radio and a fan favorite. “Say You’ll Be There” is a perfect example of the Spice Girls’ ability to create upbeat and catchy pop tracks, and a testament to their lasting impact on the world of pop and popular music.
14. “C’Mon n’ Ride It (The Train)” by Quad City DJ’s
“C’mon n’ Ride It (The Train)” is a song by Quad City DJ’s that was released in 1996. It is an upbeat techno-dance track that features a sample from the popular children’s song “Ride the Pony”. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to dance and have a good time, and the catchy chorus and upbeat melody make it an instant dance floor hit. With its infectious beat and memorable chorus, “C’mon n’ Ride It (The Train)” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Quad City DJ’s as one of the leading acts in the techno-dance genre. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of dance and club playlists and a fan favorite. “C’mon n’ Ride It (The Train)” is a perfect example of Quad City DJ’s ability to create upbeat and infectious dance tracks, and a testament to their lasting impact on the world of electronic dance music.
15. “You’re Makin’ Me High” by Toni Braxton
“You’re Makin’ Me High” is a song by Toni Braxton that was released in 1996. It is a soulful and seductive R&B track that showcases Braxton’s powerful and emotive voice. The song’s lyrics describe the intense feelings of desire and attraction that the singer experiences when she is around her love interest. With its smooth and sensual melody, “You’re Makin’ Me High” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Toni Braxton as one of the leading voices in the R&B genre. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of R&B and hip-hop playlists and a fan favorite. “You’re Makin’ Me High” is a perfect example of Toni Braxton’s ability to create soulful and seductive R&B tracks, and a testament to her lasting impact on the world of popular music.
16. “Follow You Down” by Gin Blossoms
“Follow You Down” is a song by the Gin Blossoms that was released in 1996. It is a melodic and introspective alternative rock track that features the group’s signature guitar-driven sound. The song’s lyrics express the singer’s desire to be there for a loved one, no matter where life takes them. With its catchy chorus and memorable melody, “Follow You Down” quickly became a hit and helped to establish the Gin Blossoms as one of the leading alternative rock acts of the 90s. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of alternative rock playlists and a fan favorite. “Follow You Down” is a perfect example of the Gin Blossoms’ ability to create melodic and introspective alternative rock tracks, and a testament to their lasting impact on the world of popular music.
17. “Firestarter” by The Prodigy
“Firestarter” is a song by the Prodigy that was released in 1996. It is an aggressive and high-energy electronic dance track that features a driving beat, intense synth riffs, and fierce vocals. The song’s lyrics express a sense of rebellion and nonconformity, and its pounding beats and abrasive sounds make it a standout in the electronic dance genre. With its bold and in-your-face style, “Firestarter” quickly became a hit and helped to establish the Prodigy as one of the leading acts in the world of electronic dance music. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of electronic dance playlists and a fan favorite. “Firestarter” is a perfect example of the Prodigy’s ability to create high-energy and aggressive electronic dance tracks, and a testament to their lasting impact on the world of popular music.
18. “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” by Celine Dion
“It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” is a song by Celine Dion that was released in 1996. It is a dramatic and emotional ballad that showcases Dion’s powerful and soaring voice. The song’s lyrics describe the singer’s feelings of nostalgia and longing as she remembers a past love. With its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics, “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Celine Dion as one of the leading voices in the world of popular music. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of power ballad playlists and a fan favorite. “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” is a perfect example of Celine Dion’s ability to create powerful and emotional ballads, and a testament to her lasting impact on the world of popular music.
19. “No Diggity” by Blackstreet and Dr. Dre
“No Diggity” is a song by Blackstreet featuring Dr. Dre that was released in 1996. It is a smooth and upbeat R&B track that features catchy lyrics, a soulful groove, and Dr. Dre’s distinctive production style. The song’s lyrics describe a man’s appreciation for a woman who has captured his heart. With its infectious beat and catchy chorus, “No Diggity” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Blackstreet as one of the leading R&B acts of the 90s. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of R&B playlists and a fan favorite. “No Diggity” is a perfect example of Blackstreet’s ability to create smooth and upbeat R&B tracks, and a testament to Dr. Dre’s lasting impact on the world of popular music.
20. “Un‑Break My Heart” by Toni Braxton
“Un-Break My Heart” is a song by Toni Braxton that was released in 1996. It is a powerful and emotional ballad that showcases Braxton’s soulful voice and powerful delivery. The song’s lyrics describe the singer’s heartbreak and longing for a lost love. With its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Un-Break My Heart” quickly became a hit and helped to establish Toni Braxton as one of the leading voices in the world of R&B and pop music. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a staple of ballad playlists and a fan favorite. “Un-Break My Heart” is a perfect example of Toni Braxton’s ability to create powerful and emotional ballads, and a testament to her lasting impact on the world of popular music.
Simon Robinson 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.
