If you consider yourself a music aficionado, chances are you are familiar with the alternative music scene of the 1990s. From major bands like Nirvana to more underground acts like Pavement, it felt as if every week a new masterpiece was released with enough variety to satisfy everyone—from grunge and alt-rockers to goths, punks, and skaters.
With so many classics, narrowing down the best alternative songs of the 90s is no easy task. So, instead let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most influential and memorable tracks of the era.
1. Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
Before Nirvana burst onto the scene, rock music was dominated by big hair bands and polished pop-rock acts. It was the era of hairspray and high notes.
But all of that changed with the grunge movement, which Nirvana helped to kickstart. Suddenly, it was cool to be a little rough around the edges, to wear flannel shirts and ripped jeans, and to play music that was gritty and raw.
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” was the perfect distillation of this new alternative rock aesthetic. With its iconic guitar riffs, Grohl’s thunderous drums and Kurt Cobain’s angsty vocals, the song was an instant classic that captured the spirit of a generation.
Due to this reason, we have to list it as number one in our list of the 20 best alternative songs from the 90s.
2. Creep by Radiohead
When Radiohead released “Creep” as a single in 1992, it wasn’t an immediate hit. In fact, the band was initially disappointed with the response it received. But over time, the song gained traction and eventually became a massive success.
“Creep” not only put Radiohead on the map but also helped them define their unique sound. The band’s combination of raw emotion and complex arrangements was a breath of fresh air in the music industry, and “Creep” was the perfect example of what they were capable of.
3. What’s Up? by 4 Non-Blondes
“What’s Up?” almost didn’t make it to the final cut. The band’s lead singer and songwriter, Linda Perry, initially disliked the production of the song. However, the demo version that Perry had created was ultimately chosen, and the band recorded the final version of the song in just one day.
The most memorable part of “What’s Up?” is undoubtedly the chorus. Linda Perry’s repeated question, “What’s going on?” strikes a chord with everyone who has ever felt lost or uncertain. It’s a simple phrase but captures a sense of frustration that is universal.
And whether you’re singing it at a karaoke bar or just blasting it in your car, “What’s Up?” is a song that will never get old.
4. Loser by Beck
When it comes to music, it can be tough to stand out in a crowd.
There are countless artists vying for our attention, all with their own unique sound and style. But for one singer-songwriter, his quirks and unconventional approach set him apart from the rest.
Beck’s hit song “Loser” speaks to anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t fit in with society’s expectations. The opening line, “In the time of chimpanzees, I was a monkey,” immediately sets the tone for a song that’s all about feeling like an outsider.
Although “Loser” didn’t immediately climb the charts, it eventually became a massive success climbing to number ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
5. Song 2 by Blur
Blur was already a well-known name in the UK music scene thanks to their success in the Brit-pop genre. But it wasn’t until “Song 2” that they truly broke through in the United States.
The song was a massive hit, with its catchy “woo-hoo” chorus and ear-splitting riffs by Graham Coxon.
And while “Song 2” may have been a departure from Blur’s usual sound, it proved to be a winning formula.
The song reached the top 10 in multiple countries, including the United States, and became one of the defining anthems of the 90s alternative scene.
6. Cannonball by The Breeders
If you’re a true fan of alternative rock, then you’ve probably heard of The Pixies. They were a band that was ahead of their time, influencing legendary acts such as Nirvana and Radiohead.
Unfortunately, they never got the recognition they deserved during their prime. But that didn’t stop one of their former members, Kim Deal, from making her mark in the music industry.
With her band The Breeders, Kim Deal created a hit that perfectly captured the essence of 90s alternative music: “Cannonball”.
This song, was an instant classic that topped the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart.
But it’s not just the music that makes “Cannonball” such a standout track. The lyrics are just as intriguing, with Kim Deal’s signature brand of lyrical weirdness shining through.
7. Basket Case by Green Day
When lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong wrote “Basket Case” in 1994, he was dealing with intense anxiety attacks. In a revealing interview, Armstrong shared that songwriting was his way of coping with his mental health struggles.
And that’s precisely how “Basket Case” was born. The song’s lyrics offer a glimpse into Armstrong’s mind and emotions, as he candidly sings about feeling like he’s losing control and questioning his sanity.
At a time when mental health was still very much a taboo subject, “Basket Case” was a game-changer.
It proved that there was a hunger for music that tackled difficult topics and that honesty and vulnerability could be powerful tools in creating meaningful art.
8. Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers
“Under the Bridge” was born from a poem that lead singer Anthony Kiedis had written in his notebook.
The poem was a reflection on his feelings of loneliness and isolation, as he struggled with addiction and the pressures of fame.
Kiedis initially hesitated to share such a personal and introspective piece, but producer Rick Rubin recognized the beauty of the words and encouraged the band to turn it into a song.
The song went on to became a massive hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
This success also marked a turning point for the band, as they moved away from their earlier, funk-influenced sound and embraced a more melodic and introspective style.
9. Black Hole Sun by Soundgarden
It all started with a misheard news anchor’s statement. Chris Cornell, the frontman of Soundgarden, was driving home from the recording studio when he heard the news anchor say something about a “black hole sun.”
Cornell was struck by the phrase and quickly jotted it down. In just 15 minutes, he had written the song that would become “Black Hole Sun.”
But above all, “Black Hole Sun” is an ode to the gloomy Seattle grunge scene and its bleak themes of alienation and despair.
The song shot to the top of the charts and gave Soundgarden their biggest hit to date.
10. Alive by Pearl Jam
Believe it or not, “Alive” wasn’t always known by that name. Originally, it was called “Dollar Short,” written by guitarist Stone Gossard during his time with Mother Love Bone.
Gossard and his bandmate Jeff Ament were searching for a new singer and drummer after the tragic death of their lead singer, Andrew Wood. In an effort to find new talent, the duo recorded a demo tape called “Stone Gossard Demos ’91.”
It wasn’t until Eddie Vedder joined the band as lead vocalist that “Dollar Short” began to take on a new life. Vedder wrote lyrics that transformed the song into the grunge anthem we all know and love today.
11. Closer by Nine Inch Nails
At first listen, “Closer” may seem like a straightforward love song with its catchy chorus of “I want to f*** you like an animal”. However, upon closer examination, the lyrics reveal a much darker theme of self-hatred and obsession.
The song’s protagonist is consumed by his desire for someone, but he hates himself for it. He wants to be close to this person, but he knows it’s not healthy. The chorus, while erotically charged, is actually a manifestation of the protagonist’s self-loathing.
Despite the dark themes, Closer” was a commercial success. The song’s opening riff is instantly recognizable and sets the tone for the rest of the song.
12. Zombie by Cranberries
“Zombie” was a departure from the band’s earlier sound, but it showcased their versatility and willingness to take on serious subjects.
Sadly, the issues that inspired “Zombie” continue to be relevant today. Political violence and conflict continue to plague many parts of the world, and innocent people continue to suffer as a result.
Nevertheless, the song was a hit reaching number 1 in multiple countries.
13. Everlong by Foo Fighters
After the untimely end of Nirvana, Dave Grohl could have easily faded into obscurity or become a hired gun for other bands. But instead, he chose to forge his own path, starting Foo Fighters and cementing his place in the rock and roll pantheon.
Grohl’s talent as a drummer was undeniable, but it was his songwriting skills that truly set him apart.
From the opening guitar riff to the soaring chorus, “Everlong” is a masterclass in 90s alternative rock. The song’s structure is deceptively simple, building from a gentle acoustic intro to a full-throttle rock anthem.
14. Criminal by Fiona Apple
The first thing that grabs your attention when you hear “Criminal” is the opening lines. Fiona’s voice draws you in with its raw emotion as she sings, “I’ve been a bad, bad girl / I’ve been careless with a delicate man.”
Even though she was only 18 at the time, Fiona sang those lines with such raw emotion that you can’t help but be drawn into the song’s story.
The song peaked at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and this success was not just limited to the charts, it also won her a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.
15. Doll Parts by Hole
Love wrote “Doll Parts” early on in the recording process for Live Through This, and it’s clear that the song came from a deeply personal place.
Lines like “I want to be the girl with the most cake” and “I want to be the queen of your heart” reveal Love’s desire for validation and acceptance, while the repeated refrain of “Someday you will ache like I ache” is a defiant statement of self-worth.
In a 2010 interview with Uncut magazine, Love opened up about the inspiration behind “Doll Parts”. She revealed that the song was specifically inspired by her tumultuous relationship with Kurt Cobain, the frontman of Nirvana. According to her, she felt that Cobain didn’t like her and this emotional turmoil fueled the songwriting process.
She also revelead an interesting tidbit about the song’s creation. She said that “Doll Parts” was written in just 20 minutes and in a locked bathroom.
16. All the Small Things by Blink-182
Blink-182 may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s no denying their impact on the pop-punk genre.
While “All the Small Things” is undoubtedly a catchy tune, it was the music video that truly set it apart. The video, which parodied boy bands and pop singers of the time, featured Blink-182 dressed up as the Backstreet Boys.
It was a bold move that drew both praise and criticism. Some hailed it as a stroke of genius, while others felt it was too thin of a basis for parody.
Despite the backlash, “All the Small Things” has remained one of Blink-182’s greatest hits for over two decades. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to stay true to their punk roots and authenticity. Unlike other mainstream acts that have succumbed to pressure and shifted their sound to stay relevant, Blink-182 has stayed the course.
17. Stupid Girl by Garbage
Looking back, it’s easy to see why “Stupid Girl” was such a hit.
The song perfectly captured the sound of the mid-90s alternative scene, with its mix of grunge, electronic, and pop influences. But it’s also a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Its message – a scathing critique of the shallow, image-obsessed culture of the entertainment industry – still rings true, and Manson’s powerful vocals give the song a sense of urgency that’s impossible to ignore.
18. Been Caught Stealing by Jane’s Addiction
At its core, “Been Caught Stealing” is a celebration of the thrill of stealing. The song’s lyrics describe the rush of adrenaline that comes with taking something that doesn’t belong to you, and the excitement of getting away with it – at least for a little while.
But it’s not just the lyrics that capture this feeling – the music itself is a perfect match for the subject matter.
The track opens with a jangly guitar riff and a barking dog, which immediately sets a playful and irreverent tone. The rest of the song is a mix of funk-infused bass lines, distorted guitars, and Farrell’s distinctive vocals, which range from soft crooning to wild yelps and screams.
19. Wonderwall by Oasis
Part of the appeal of “Wonderwall” ( originally titled “Wishing Stone” ) is its simplicity. It’s a track that’s easy to sing along to, easy to strum on a guitar, easy to hum absentmindedly to yourself.
But it’s also a song that rewards closer listening. The layered vocals, the intricate guitar work, the subtle shifts in dynamics – all these elements combine to create a track that’s as rich and complex as it is accessible.
And that’s why “Wonderwall” has endured for so long. It’s a song that speaks to people of all ages and backgrounds, while also resonating with younger generations who may be discovering it for the first time.
20. Down by the Water by PJ Harvey
“Down by the Water” is actually a reinterpretation of a folk song that dates back to the early 1900s. The original song tells the tragic story of a woman who drowns her child in a river and then regrets her actions.
Over the years, the song was covered by many legendary artists, including Lead Belly and Mississippi John Hurt.
But it wasn’t until PJ Harvey got her hands on it that the song really came to life. Harvey took the haunting story of the original and infused it with her unique style, creating a mesmerizing piece that captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Each of these songs has a unique sound and style that has become synonymous with the 90s era. From the raw energy of Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” to the soulful balladry of Oasis’ “Wonderwall,” each song is a masterpiece in its own right.
Moreover, these songs have been covered by numerous artists and bands over the years, proving their timeless appeal. Many of them have also been featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying their place in popular culture.
So, if you’re feeling nostalgic and want to transport yourself back to the days when alternative music ruled the airwaves, turn up the volume and immerse yourself in the magic of these classic tunes.
Who knows, you may discover something new and exciting that resonates with you just as much as it did with audiences in the 90s. Enjoy!
