Nirvana’s “Heart-Shaped Box,” with its catchy chorus and provocative lyrics, remains one of the cornerstones of alternative 90s music. The song explores depression, drug dependency and loss of love – themes that resonate even today.
Spacehog’s song, “In the Meantime”, was an upbeat alternative 90s music track that became an immediate success when released as an EP in 1998.
In Bloom by Nirvana
Kurt Cobain, lead singer of Nirvana from the 90s grunge band Nirvana, wrote this song as a way of laughing off people who attended their concerts with nothing in their hair but flowers. Though at first glance the lyrics appear to express a feeling of alienation within crowds, they also reflect Nirvana’s frustration that its message wasn’t being heard properly by its audiences.
Cobain used guitar improvisation on In Bloom and other tracks from Nevermind to craft chord sequences and melodies that deviated from their conventional functions, much as orchestral composers Debussy, Hindemith and Bartok had used this technique; atonal jazz composers Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock had employed it, too – yet Cobain brought this technique into popular music through In Bloom.
This emotionally raw alternative song from the 90’s has become one of the most iconic alternative tracks ever heard; often used in movies, video games and commercials. It has come to symbolize young rebellion as well as searching for meaning among its listeners.
Losing My Religion by The White Stripes
The 1990s was a fantastic decade for music, and many of the Seattle grunge bands have become timeless classics. But many other great songs from that era remain forgotten as time goes by.
Local H’s “Bound for the Floor” stands as an outstanding example of 90s alternative music that remains incredibly relevant today. The combination of haunting piano accompaniment and rock guitar riffs make this hit song from Local H an instant throwback to one’s youth and alternative music’s peak during that era.
Bush’s Glycerine was one of the biggest hits from their 1990s alternative music period and catapulted them into mainstream popularity. This track showcases both alt-rock tones and angsty young adult themes, making it so beloved at its time of release.
Sex and Candy by The Strokes
This 90s alternative song is beloved among Gen-Xers. Featuring a powerful guitar riff and engaging lyrics, this classic will always remain relevant.
This song perfectly captures the indolence and self-absorbed attitude that defined The Strokes during their early years, even as they enjoyed immense popularity. Casablancas defiantly rejects criticism that their music sounds too “easy,” while still showing signs of anxiety as band leader.
Sex and Candy is a post-grunge rock song with psychedelic influences from 1997’s Room on Fire album. The lyrics capture the angst of modern life while at the same time conveying youthful rebellion to many listeners. Although written about an unconventional relationship, its message remains one of hope and perseverance – an ideal anthem for anyone feeling trapped by circumstances or lifestyle choices.
Stupid Girl by Garbage
Stupid Girl was one of the most iconic alternative songs from the ’90s and it captured much of what young adults felt and went through as they navigated life’s trials and tribulations, making it essential listening. Beginning with warped guitar sound and chanting vocals that progress into an atmospheric alternative rock track featuring exotic melodies which add depth and emotion.
Garbage’s first album may not have aged particularly well over time, yet Stupid Girl remains an excellent alternative music track. Showcasing their signature blend of alternative rock and pop music, Stupid Girl quickly became a classic that has been covered by other artists over time. This song showcases how powerful an alternative band’s lyrics can be when combined with an catchy melody that resonates with listeners decades after release – it should definitely be on every playlist full of alternative indie tracks from the 90s!
Flagpole Sitta by The Strokes
“Flagpole Sitta” may have been one of the most famous and overexposed alternative songs of the ’90s, popularizing worldwide charts as it featured on several Now That’s What I Call Punk! compilations. At first glance, “Flagpole Sitta” appears to offer a complete interpretation of underground signifiers and teenage angst; yet closer examination reveals it to be an intellectual dissection of pseudo-rebellion and self-importance.
Harvey Danger, a boisterous Seattle band that only released several albums before disbanding in 2001, became well-known thanks to their hit “Flagpole Sitta.” With such a popular song at their disposal came offers for licensing deals but the band refused due to fear they might lose their indie cred. Instead, they declined themesong opportunities such as Jimmy Kimmel’s Man Show and The X Factor due to this decision.
Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and producer Elohim recently unveiled a cover of Flagpole Sitta by alt-rock veterans AWOLNATION in collaboration. This version provides a laid back take on the original that could easily fit in at any piano bar (if only they had drum machines!).
All Apologies by The Cure
Plush, one of the most iconic alternative songs from the 90s, perfectly captures that decade’s sound with its driving drums and infectious bass line. Additionally, its thought-provoking lyrics continue to inspire listeners decades after release.
Though The Cure may be known for their dark music, they possess the skill of crafting melodies that are both captivating and beautiful. Disintegration’s melancholic wonder manages to encapsulate all the feelings one experiences as they progress from childhood through adulthood.
Nirvana are widely considered one of the premier alternative rock bands ever. Their classic alternative hit “Heart-Shaped Box” encapsulates this sentiment perfectly, with its haunting vocals and powerful beat that make for an unforgettable alternative rock experience.
As music lovers, these are just some of the essential 90s alternative songs every music lover should possess in their collection. To hear even more, be sure to check out NOW That’s I Call Music! 90’s Alternative Rock compilation.
Bound For The Floor by Local H
Bound for the Floor is an early 90s alternative song featuring grunge-style teenage angst and powerful yet simple lyrics, one of the signature songs from Local H, a band with an established cult following but yet to reach mainstream success.
This song addresses the desire to break free from conventions and express one’s individuality while also exploring feelings of dissatisfaction from living in an oppressive society full of conformists. Due to its widespread popularity, Local H’s subsequent career as an alternative music band was made possible.
Although Lifers are frequently associated with the grunge movement, it is important to remember that Local H hail from Illinois rather than Seattle. Still, their songs on this album show Nirvana’s influence; its angst-ridden lyrics balanced perfectly by Joe Daniels’ drumming are powerful yet emotional compositions which showcase alternative rock in its purest form during this era.
Come As You Are by Nirvana
Nirvana fans should listen to “Nevermind”, the iconic alternative song from the 90s, for any fan of alternative rock and especially Nirvana. Originally intended as the second single from their album Nevermind, but overshadowed by the hit single “Smells Like Teen Spirit”. Kurt Cobain may have written its lyrics as an attempt at processing his experiences with drugs; today it often seems morbid given his sudden suicide shortly after its release.
While Seattle grunge artists like Pearl Jam and Soundgarden still maintain huge followings today, much of the music from the 90s is often forgotten. Yet there are many great alternative songs from this decade which continue to be appreciated worldwide by their listeners; these serve as reminders of an amazing decade that produced such incredible works as these ones from this decade! We would like to extend a special thanks to Gina Gerard for providing feedback and editorial support during this project!