The year 1990 marked a significant turning point in the music industry as it marked the beginning of a new decade and a new era of popular music. It was a year that saw the emergence of new genres and artists, and the rise of established ones. From the dance-pop of Madonna to the grunge of Nirvana, the 1990s was a time when musical styles collided and merged to create some of the most iconic songs of all time. The music of the 1990s was characterized by its diversity, as it showcased a broad range of sounds and styles. Some of the most significant and memorable songs of the decade were released in 1990, setting the tone for the rest of the decade. This article explores the top 20 greatest songs of 1990, taking into account their chart performance, cultural impact, and enduring popularity. From the soulful ballads of Céline Dion to the funky beats of Vanilla Ice, these songs shaped the soundtrack of the 1990s and continue to be celebrated and enjoyed to this day. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most beloved and unforgettable songs of 1990.
1. “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips
The song “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips was released in 1990 and quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It is a pop rock track that features a powerful and uplifting melody, with intricate harmonies and soaring vocals from the trio of sisters, Carnie and Wendy Wilson, and Chynna Phillips. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to persevere through difficult times, with lines like “Some day somebody’s gonna make you wanna turn around and say goodbye / Until then baby are you gonna let ’em hold you down and make you cry?” The song’s music video features the three women singing on a beach, with waves crashing behind them. “Hold On” has become an enduring classic of the 1990s, and its message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with audiences today.
2. “It Must Have Been Love” by Roxette
“It Must Have Been Love” is a classic ballad by the Swedish duo Roxette, released in 1987 and re-released in 1990 for the Pretty Woman soundtrack. The song is a romantic ballad that features a slow and melancholic melody, with Marie Fredriksson’s vocals conveying a sense of longing and heartache. The lyrics speak of a love that has ended, with lines like “It must have been love, but it’s over now / It must have been good, but I lost it somehow.” The song’s music video features the band performing in a winter landscape, with Fredriksson singing while surrounded by snow. “It Must Have Been Love” remains a beloved classic of the 1980s, and its poignant lyrics and memorable melody continue to tug at listeners’ heartstrings.
3. “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinéad O’Connor
“Nothing Compares 2 U” is a soulful and emotional ballad by Sinéad O’Connor, released in 1990. The song was written by Prince in 1984, but it was O’Connor’s version that became a massive hit, reaching number one in multiple countries. The song features sparse instrumentation, with O’Connor’s haunting and powerful vocals carrying most of the emotional weight. The lyrics speak of a lost love, with lines like “It’s been seven hours and fifteen days / Since you took your love away.” The song’s music video features a close-up shot of O’Connor’s face as she sings, with tears streaming down her cheeks. “Nothing Compares 2 U” is a timeless classic of the 1990s, and its raw emotion and vulnerability continue to captivate listeners to this day.
4. “Play That Funky Music” by Vanilla Ice
“Play That Funky Music” is a rap rock song by Vanilla Ice, released in 1990 as a cover of the original song by the band Wild Cherry. The song features a catchy and upbeat melody, with a mix of rock guitar riffs and hip hop beats, and Vanilla Ice’s rapid-fire rapping. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to let loose and dance, with lines like “Play that funky music, white boy / Play that funky music right.” The song’s music video features Vanilla Ice performing on stage, with a live band and dancers adding to the energetic vibe. “Play That Funky Music” was a massive hit in the early 1990s, and its infectious groove and high-energy style continue to be enjoyed by fans of rap rock and pop music.
5. “Poison” by Bell Biv Devoe
“Poison” is a high-energy R&B song by Bell Biv DeVoe, released in 1990. The song features a catchy and upbeat melody, with a blend of hip hop and funk influences, and the group’s smooth and soulful harmonies. The lyrics speak of a toxic relationship, with lines like “Never trust a big butt and a smile.” The song’s music video features the trio performing in various locations, with dancers and other performers adding to the fun and energetic vibe. “Poison” was a huge hit in the early 1990s, and its infectious groove and catchy lyrics continue to be enjoyed by fans of R&B and hip hop music.
6. “Because I Love You (The Postman Song)” by Stevie B
“Because I Love You (The Postman Song)” is a romantic ballad by Stevie B, released in 1990. The song features a slow and soulful melody, with Stevie B’s powerful vocals conveying the depth of emotion in the lyrics. The song speaks of a deep and enduring love, with lines like “I’ll be the rock you can lean on / Be there when you’re old.” The song’s music video features Stevie B singing in various romantic settings, with footage of a postman delivering love letters adding to the theme of the song. “Because I Love You (The Postman Song)” was a huge hit in the early 1990s, and its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody continue to be beloved by fans of romantic ballads.
7. “Vogue” by Madonna
“Vogue” is an iconic pop song by Madonna, released in 1990. The song features a fast-paced, danceable beat and catchy, upbeat melody, with Madonna’s powerful vocals driving the rhythm. The lyrics speak of the glamour and allure of the world of high fashion and its icons, with lines like “Greta Garbo, and Monroe / Dietrich and DiMaggio.” The song’s music video is equally iconic, featuring Madonna and a diverse cast of dancers striking classic poses and performing intricate choreography. “Vogue” was a massive hit in the early 1990s, and its danceable beat and iconic style continue to be celebrated and imitated in popular culture.
8. “Where Does My Heart Beat Now” by Céline Dion
“Where Does My Heart Beat Now” is a powerful ballad by Céline Dion, released in 1990. The song features a soaring melody, with Dion’s powerhouse vocals delivering the emotional lyrics. The song speaks of a longing for love, with lines like “Where is the sound / That only echoes through the night?” The song’s music video features Dion singing passionately against a backdrop of dramatic lighting and scenic landscapes. “Where Does My Heart Beat Now” was a huge hit for Dion and established her as a major international star. The song’s emotional power and soaring melody continue to captivate listeners to this day.
9. “Vision of Love” by Mariah Carey
“Vision of Love” is a classic R&B ballad by Mariah Carey, released in 1990. The song features Carey’s powerful vocals and a soaring melody, with lyrics that speak of a deep love and connection. The song’s stripped-down arrangement allows Carey’s voice to take center stage, with subtle backing instrumentation supporting the emotional intensity of her singing. The song’s music video features Carey performing in a variety of settings, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotive expression. “Vision of Love” was a massive hit, marking Carey’s debut as a solo artist and establishing her as a major force in the music industry. The song’s timeless appeal and soulful sound continue to resonate with listeners today.
10. “Freedom ’90” by George Michael
“Freedom ’90” is a classic pop and dance song by George Michael, released in 1990. The song features a driving beat and catchy melody, with lyrics that speak of breaking free from the constraints of fame and the music industry. The song’s music video features a number of iconic supermodels lip-syncing to the song, with Michael himself appearing only briefly. The video and song are seen as a statement of Michael’s desire to move on from the image he had cultivated as a teen heartthrob and establish himself as a serious artist. “Freedom ’90” remains a beloved hit and a testament to Michael’s artistry and influence.
11. “Enjoy The Silence” by Depeche Mode
“Enjoy The Silence” is a classic synth-pop and alternative rock song by Depeche Mode, released in 1990. The song features a driving beat and catchy melody, with lyrics that speak of a desire for solitude and inner peace. The song’s distinctive sound, featuring a combination of acoustic and electronic instruments, has become a signature of Depeche Mode’s music. The song’s music video features lead singer Dave Gahan walking through various landscapes while dressed in a king’s robe, accompanied by a woman in a wedding dress. “Enjoy The Silence” was a massive hit and remains a beloved classic of the 1990s music scene.
12. “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice
“Ice Ice Baby” is a classic hip hop song by Vanilla Ice, released in 1990. The song features a catchy bass line and samples the Queen and David Bowie hit “Under Pressure.” The song’s lyrics are a blend of braggadocio and party lyrics, describing the wild lifestyle of Vanilla Ice and his crew. “Ice Ice Baby” was a massive hit, becoming the first hip hop song to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success made Vanilla Ice a household name, though he later faced controversy over allegations of plagiarism and a lack of credibility in the hip hop community. Despite this, “Ice Ice Baby” remains a beloved classic of the 1990s music scene.
13. “U Can’t Touch This” by MC Hammer
“U Can’t Touch This” is a popular hip hop song by MC Hammer, released in 1990. The song is known for its catchy beat and hook, and for popularizing the “Hammer Dance,” a dance move that became a cultural phenomenon. The song’s lyrics are about Hammer’s success and skill as a rapper, with the chorus famously declaring, “U can’t touch this!” The song was a massive hit, topping the charts in multiple countries and winning multiple awards. It has since become an iconic example of 1990s hip hop, and its catchy beat and memorable lyrics continue to be a fan favorite today.
14. “Gonna Make You Sweat” by C+C Music Factory
“Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” is an upbeat dance song by the American group C+C Music Factory, released in 1990. The song is characterized by its infectious dance beat and the energetic vocals of singer Martha Wash. The chorus, “Everybody dance now,” has become a well-known catchphrase and the song itself has become an enduring classic of 1990s dance music. It achieved worldwide success and has been featured in numerous movies and television shows. The song is celebrated for its infectious energy and is a popular choice for dance parties and workouts.
15. “Groove Is In The Heart” by Deee-Lite
“Groove Is In The Heart” is a funky dance track by the American group Deee-Lite, released in 1990. The song features a sample from the Herbie Hancock song “Bring Down the Birds” and features the unique vocal style of lead singer Lady Miss Kier. The song’s infectious dance beat, catchy melody, and distinctive bassline have made it a classic of the 1990s dance music era. The song is known for its playful and joyful sound and has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and video games. It is a staple of dance clubs and is still popular among fans of dance and electronic music.
16. “The Humpty Dance” by Digital Underground
“The Humpty Dance” is a 1990 hip-hop classic by Digital Underground. The song features lead rapper Humpty Hump, a character played by band member Shock G, who raps about his unique dance style and his ability to make people smile. The song’s funky groove and humorous lyrics, along with its memorable music video featuring the Humpty Hump character, made it an instant hit. “The Humpty Dance” helped popularize the “new school” style of hip-hop that emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The song is still a popular dance-floor classic and an iconic example of 1990s hip-hop.
17. “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC
“Thunderstruck” is a hard rock song by the Australian band AC/DC, released in 1990. The song features an instantly recognizable opening guitar riff, which has become one of the most famous and iconic riffs in rock music. The song is about the power and excitement of live rock concerts and has a driving, energetic beat that makes it a fan favorite. “Thunderstruck” became one of the band’s most successful and enduring hits, and is often played during sporting events and in movies and television shows. The song is a classic example of the high-energy hard rock sound that AC/DC is known for.
18. “Sadeness” by Enigma
“Sadeness” is a 1990 song by the German musical project Enigma. The song features elements of Gregorian chants, electronic beats, and Middle Eastern instrumentation, and its lyrics revolve around the concept of “sacredness” versus “profanity.” The song was a massive commercial success, topping the charts in numerous countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was also controversial due to its use of religious themes and erotic imagery, which resulted in the song being banned by some radio stations and sparking debates about censorship and artistic freedom.
19. “Someday” by Mariah Carey
“Someday” is a power ballad by American singer Mariah Carey, released as the third single from her self-titled debut album in 1990. The song features a slow and mellow melody, with Carey’s emotive and soulful vocals perfectly capturing the song’s yearning lyrics. It tells the story of a woman who dreams of a better life with her lover, but is held back by the fear of taking risks. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying Carey’s status as a rising star in the music industry.
20. “All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You” by Heart
“All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You” is a power ballad by the American rock band Heart, released in 1990. The song tells the story of a woman who has a one-night stand with a hitchhiker, hoping to conceive a child since her own husband is unable to have children. The song is known for its soaring vocals and its catchy, sing-along chorus. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, and is considered one of Heart’s most well-known and popular songs. The music video features the band performing on a stage while various couples dance around them.
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.
