The year 1998 was a pivotal moment in music history, with a range of groundbreaking and timeless songs that continue to captivate audiences more than two decades later. From rock anthems to pop ballads, the music of 1998 reflects a rich diversity of styles and genres that define the era. In this article, we will be exploring the top 20 greatest songs from 1998 that have become emblematic of the decade.
Each of the songs on this list represents a unique moment in music history, capturing the essence of the late ’90s in a way that is both nostalgic and enduring. Some of these songs were instant classics upon their release, while others have grown in stature over time to become beloved hits. Many of the artists featured on this list have gone on to become some of the most iconic and influential musicians of our time, while others may have been one-hit wonders.
Through these songs, we see how the music of 1998 reflected the cultural and social changes of the era, from the rise of alternative rock to the emergence of electronic dance music. Whether you lived through the ’90s or are discovering these songs for the first time, they offer a compelling glimpse into a pivotal moment in music history. So sit back, turn up the volume, and let the music take you back to 1998.
1. “Believe” by Cher
“Believe” by Cher is a pop song released in 1998. It was a commercial success and became one of Cher’s signature songs. The song features a fast-paced beat, with a mix of electronic and dance elements. The lyrics talk about the power of belief and its ability to bring hope and happiness into one’s life. The chorus of the song is catchy and upbeat, with Cher’s powerful vocals shining through. The music video for “Believe” features Cher performing the song in a futuristic, virtual reality setting. Overall, “Believe” is a feel-good, empowering song that has become a staple of pop music and an iconic representation of Cher’s enduring appeal as a pop icon.
2. “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” by Will Smith
“Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” by Will Smith is a hip-hop and pop song released in 1998. The song was a massive commercial success and became one of Will Smith’s biggest hits. The beat is upbeat and energetic, with a mix of hip-hop and dance elements. The lyrics talk about the joys of dancing and having a good time. The chorus of the song is catchy and upbeat, with Will Smith’s playful, charismatic flow dominating the track. The music video for “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” features Will Smith dancing and performing the song in a variety of fun and quirky settings. Overall, “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” is a light-hearted, fun song that perfectly captures the essence of Will Smith’s musical style and personality.
3. “The First Night” by Monica
“The First Night” by Monica is an R&B ballad released in 1998. The song is a romantic and emotional tribute to a new love, with Monica’s powerful and soulful vocals at the forefront. The production is characterized by soft piano and guitar melodies, with a slow and steady beat. The lyrics express the excitement and uncertainty of a new relationship, with Monica singing about the unforgettable feeling of the first night with a new love. The song’s chorus is memorable and emotional, with Monica’s voice rising to powerful heights. The music video for “The First Night” features Monica singing the song in a romantic and intimate setting, further emphasizing the emotional themes of the song. Overall, “The First Night” is a beautiful and touching R&B ballad that showcases Monica’s vocal abilities and her ability to evoke powerful emotions with her music.
4. “The Boy Is Mine” by Brandy and Monica
“The Boy Is Mine” by Brandy and Monica is a duet R&B song released in 1998. The song is a passionate and dramatic declaration of love and jealousy over the same man. The production is characterized by a mid-tempo beat, with a mix of piano, strings, and synths creating a tense and atmospheric soundscape. Brandy and Monica’s powerful vocals are showcased throughout the song as they trade verses, each expressing their desire for the man in question. The song’s chorus is a memorable and catchy hook, with the two singers singing together in harmony. The music video for “The Boy Is Mine” features Brandy and Monica performing the song together, further emphasizing the theme of their shared love and conflict over the same man. Overall, “The Boy Is Mine” is a powerful and dramatic R&B duet that showcases the vocal abilities and chemistry of Brandy and Monica, and remains a classic in the genre to this day.
5. “Heartbreak Hotel” by Whitney Houston
“Heartbreak Hotel” by Whitney Houston is a mid-tempo R&B ballad released in 1988. The song features Whitney’s powerful and soulful vocals, backed by a smooth and atmospheric production. The song is about the singer’s heartbreak and feelings of loneliness after a breakup, and the longing for her ex-lover to come back to her. The production is characterized by a lush arrangement of piano, strings, and synths, creating a dramatic and emotional soundscape. Whitney’s vocal performance is the highlight of the song, as she effortlessly conveys the raw emotions of heartbreak and longing. The music video for “Heartbreak Hotel” features Whitney singing the song in a glamorous hotel setting, emphasizing the themes of heartbreak and loneliness. Overall, “Heartbreak Hotel” is a timeless and classic R&B ballad that showcases Whitney Houston’s incredible vocal abilities and remains a beloved and iconic song to this day.
6. “Have You Ever?” by Brandy
“Have You Ever?” by Brandy is a mid-tempo R&B ballad released in 1998. The song features Brandy’s smooth and soulful vocals, backed by a lush arrangement of piano, strings, and synths. The lyrics describe the singer’s feelings of heartbreak and longing after a past relationship, and the question of whether her former lover has ever felt the same way. Brandy’s vocal performance is powerful and emotive, conveying the raw emotions of the song’s lyrics. The production is characterized by a mellow and atmospheric sound, creating a dreamy and introspective mood. The music video for “Have You Ever?” features Brandy singing the song in a variety of scenic locations, emphasizing the themes of heartbreak and reflection. Overall, “Have You Ever?” is a beautiful and timeless R&B ballad that showcases Brandy’s incredible vocal abilities and remains a beloved song to this day.
7. “Baby One More Time” by Britney Spears
“Baby One More Time” by Britney Spears is a pop song released in 1998. The song features upbeat and energetic production, with driving drums and catchy synth hooks, and showcases Britney’s distinctive and youthful vocal delivery. The lyrics describe a young woman who is pleading with her lover to give their relationship another chance, expressing her longing to have him back. The song’s upbeat energy and catchy hook make it instantly appealing, and the video for “Baby One More Time” further popularized the song with its iconic schoolgirl-inspired choreography. Britney’s performance in the video, combined with the song’s memorable hook, helped to establish her as a pop icon and launched her career. To this day, “Baby One More Time” remains one of Britney’s most well-known and beloved songs, and is considered a classic of the late 90s pop music era.
8. “All My Life” by K-Ci and JoJo
“All My Life” by K-Ci and JoJo is a ballad released in 1997. The song showcases the smooth and soulful harmonies of brothers K-Ci and JoJo, who are best known as members of the R&B group Jodeci. The production of “All My Life” is built around a simple piano line and tasteful strings, creating a lush and emotional backdrop for the brothers’ vocals. The lyrics of the song express the singer’s deep love and devotion for their partner, declaring that they would love them “all my life.” The song’s powerful and heartfelt message, combined with K-Ci and JoJo’s emotive vocal delivery, make it a classic love song that continues to resonate with audiences to this day. The song became a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning K-Ci and JoJo widespread recognition as solo artists.
9. “I’m Your Angel” by R. Kelly and Celine Dion
“I’m Your Angel” by R. Kelly and Celine Dion is a duet released in 1998. The song features R. Kelly on the verses and Celine Dion on the chorus, delivering a powerful combination of soulful R&B and soaring pop vocals. The production of “I’m Your Angel” is built around a lush piano and strings arrangement, creating a dramatic and emotional atmosphere. The lyrics of the song describe a love so strong that the singer is willing to act as a guardian angel to protect their partner from harm. The song’s message of unconditional love and devotion, combined with the strong vocal performances from R. Kelly and Celine Dion, make it a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with audiences to this day. The song was a huge commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of the most recognizable and beloved love songs of the 1990s.
10. “Ray of Light” by Madonna
“Ray of Light” is a pop song by Madonna, released in 1998. It features a mixture of electronic and dance music influences, with a fast-paced beat and upbeat tempo. The lyrics of the song reflect Madonna’s newfound spiritual journey and her appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. The song was well received by audiences and critics, and was a commercial success, reaching the top of charts in multiple countries. The music video for the song features Madonna in various dance sequences and includes abstract imagery, further emphasizing the song’s themes of spiritual awakening and finding joy in the present moment. Overall, “Ray of Light” is a lively and uplifting celebration of life and spirituality that continues to be a fan favorite today.
11. “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls
“Iris” is a power ballad by American alternative rock band Goo Goo Dolls. The song was released in 1998 and quickly became one of the band’s most successful and recognizable hits. The song’s melancholic melody and emotional lyrics, sung by lead vocalist John Rzeznik, tells the story of lost love and the longing for a past relationship. The lyrics, “And I’d give up forever to touch you, ‘Cause I know that you feel me somehow,” capture the essence of the song’s themes of unrequited love and heartache. Despite its somber subject matter, the song’s upbeat tempo and powerful chorus make it an uplifting and memorable anthem of longing and loss. “Iris” continues to be one of the Goo Goo Dolls’ most popular songs and remains a staple of radio airplay and live performances.
12. “Because of You” by 98 Degrees
“Because of You” is a pop ballad by American boy band 98 Degrees. The song was released in 2000 and is considered one of the band’s signature tracks. The lyrics express the singer’s regret over a failed relationship and the impact it has had on his life. The song’s emotional melody and heartfelt delivery convey a sense of longing and regret, making it a relatable and powerful love song. The song’s chorus, “Because of you, I never stray too far from the sidewalk, because of you, I learned to play on the safe side so I don’t get hurt,” highlights the singer’s struggles with love and heartbreak. Despite its melancholic subject matter, the song’s uplifting message and catchy melody make it a memorable and beloved track by fans of the band.
13. “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here” by Deborah Cox
“Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here” is a R&B song by Canadian singer Deborah Cox. It was released in 1998 and became a huge hit, reaching the top of the US R&B charts and becoming one of Cox’s most successful tracks. The song’s upbeat tempo and soulful melody pair well with its empowering lyrics, which express a feeling of surprise and joy in finding love where it wasn’t expected. The lyrics, “How did you find me here, in this place, in this moment in time?” reflect the theme of unexpected love and the power it can have in one’s life. Cox’s powerful and soulful vocals, combined with the song’s catchy melody, make it a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated by fans today.
14. “Friend of Mine” by Kelly Price
“Friend of Mine” is a soulful R&B ballad by American singer Kelly Price. The song was released in 1998 and quickly became one of Price’s most popular tracks. The lyrics express the singer’s pain and disappointment over the end of a close friendship, and the longing for the comfort and support that the friendship once provided. The song’s emotional melody and heartfelt delivery convey a sense of loss and regret, making it a relatable and powerful ballad. The song’s chorus, “I never thought that we would be friends, I never thought that we would end,” highlights the singer’s struggles with the end of the friendship. Despite its melancholic subject matter, the song’s uplifting message and soulful delivery make it a memorable and beloved track by fans of Kelly Price.
15. “Intergalactic” by Beastie Boys
“Intergalactic” is a hip-hop/electronic track by American rap group Beastie Boys. The song was released in 1998 and is considered one of the band’s most recognizable and popular tracks. The song features an energetic, electronic beat, paired with playful and irreverent lyrics that reference science fiction and comic books. The chorus, “Intergalactic, planetary, planetary, planetary, planetary, intergalactic,” is catchy and memorable, and has become one of the band’s most recognizable hooks. Despite its quirky and playful subject matter, the song is widely considered a classic of the hip-hop genre and continues to be celebrated by fans and music lovers. The song’s energetic delivery and innovative production make it a timeless and iconic track by the Beastie Boys.
16. “One Week” by Barenaked Ladies
“One Week” is a pop rock song by Canadian band Barenaked Ladies. The song was released in 1998 and quickly became one of the band’s biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody pair well with its humorous and irreverent lyrics, which follow the story of a man who has just gotten married and is feeling overwhelmed by the speed of events in his life. The chorus, “It’s been one week since you looked at me, dropped your sword and fought for me, got me feeling with the fantasy,” highlights the theme of unexpected love and the power it can have in one’s life. Despite its humorous subject matter, the song’s upbeat delivery and catchy melody make it a beloved and memorable track by fans of the Barenaked Ladies.
17. “Slide” by Goo Goo Dolls
“Slide” is a power ballad by American rock band Goo Goo Dolls. The song was released in 1998 and quickly became one of the band’s biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts and becoming a staple of 1990s alternative rock. The song features a haunting, melodic guitar line and emotive vocals, paired with introspective lyrics about the struggles of life and the search for meaning and purpose. The chorus, “And I find it kind of funny, I find it kind of sad, the dreams in which I’m dying are the best I’ve ever had,” highlights the theme of the human struggle to find happiness and fulfillment in life. Despite its melancholic subject matter, the song’s powerful delivery and memorable melody make it a beloved and timeless track by fans of the Goo Goo Dolls.
18. “Closing Time” by Semisonic
“Closing Time” is a pop rock song by American band Semisonic. The song was released in 1998 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the charts and becoming a staple of 1990s alternative rock. The song features a driving beat and catchy melody, paired with introspective lyrics about the passage of time and the end of a chapter in life. The chorus, “Closing time, open all the doors and let you out into the world,” highlights the theme of endings and new beginnings, and the mix of sadness and excitement that comes with change. Despite its melancholic subject matter, the song’s upbeat delivery and memorable melody make it a beloved and timeless track by fans of Semisonic.
19. “Frozen” by Madonna
“Frozen” is a pop song by Madonna, released in 1998 as the lead single from her seventh studio album “Ray of Light.” The song is a departure from Madonna’s traditional dance-pop sound and features a more atmospheric, electronic production. The lyrics explore themes of loneliness, heartbreak, and the search for love and connection. The song received positive reviews from music critics and was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The video for “Frozen” is considered one of Madonna’s most iconic and features a dark, mystical aesthetic that matches the mood of the song. Overall, “Frozen” is a haunting, melancholic masterpiece that showcases Madonna’s versatility as an artist and her ability to create impactful music that connects with her listeners.
20. “You Get What You Give” by New Radicals
“You Get What You Give” is a pop/rock song by New Radicals, released in 1998 as the lead single from their only studio album “Maybe You’ve Been Brainwashed Too.” The song is known for its upbeat, anthemic sound and optimistic message, encouraging listeners to live life to the fullest and not give up on their dreams. The lyrics are upbeat and motivational, with the chorus repeating the phrase “You get what you give.” The song received positive reviews from music critics and was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 in several countries. Despite its success, the band only released one album before disbanding, making “You Get What You Give” a cult classic that is still remembered and beloved by fans today. Overall, “You Get What You Give” is a joyful, uplifting song that inspires and motivates, and serves as a reminder to live life to the fullest.
April Johnson 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.
