The Greatest Musical Artists of the '90s
An incredibly eclectic decade for music, the 1990s saw the rise in popularity of new genres and sounds never heard before (and rarely heard better). Bands of the '90s created a unique sound and catchy lyrics in a way that captured the enthusiasm and disillusionment of the era. The '90s bands and solo artists that populate this list cover all musical categories. If you're still feeling nostalgic, check out the best fictional '90s songs and the greatest one hit wonders of the '90s.
From the East Coast/West Coast rap wars, to the grunge era, to low-fi garage rock, to '90s rock bands, the Lilith Fair sound, and the teen pop takeover - 1990s music was rich with experimentation and style. Where else but in the MTV in your head can you find top artists like Nirvana, Wu-Tang Clan, No Doubt, A Tribe Called Quest, Oasis, Bikini Kill and Britney Spears in one place? Whether you were a fan of 90s alternative bands like Blind Melon, you were more dark and brooding and loved grunge music, or you couldn't get enough of popular, mainstream pop names like the Backstreet Boys, take a moment now and give some of your favorite '90s music artists some love! Who are the most famous '90s bands? Which '90s singers led their groups to become the among best of the decade?
Vote up your favorite '90s artists below, and be sure to vote based on the quality of their music rather than just their fame or social following.
- 1Nevermind, In Utero, MTV Unplugged in New York
See: The Best Nirvana Songs\
Pioneering the grunge movement with raw emotion and heavy guitar distortion, this iconic trio from Seattle pushed alternative rock into mainstream consciousness. Fronted by the enigmatic Kurt Cobain, their angsty lyrics and melancholic melodies resonated with a disenchanted generation, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture. Their groundbreaking sound not only redefined the music landscape but also inspired countless bands to follow in their footsteps.
- 2Superunknown, Badmotorfinger, Down on the Upside
See: The Best Soundgarden Songs
This powerhouse quartet hailing from Seattle played an integral role in shaping the grunge scene, blending heavy metal riffs with psychedelic undertones. Boasting a wide vocal range and powerful stage presence, frontman Chris Cornell's emotive delivery captivated audiences worldwide. With innovative songwriting and dynamic performances, they cemented their status as one of the most influential rock bands of the era.
- 3Dirt, Alice in Chains, Facelift
See: The Best Alice in Chains Songs
By merging hauntingly dark lyrics with sludgy guitar riffs, this Seattle-based group created a distinctive sound that set them apart from their grunge contemporaries. Led by the chilling harmonies of vocalist Layne Staley and guitarist Jerry Cantrell, their introspective themes struck a chord with fans looking for more depth in hard rock music. Their unique style left a lasting impression on future generations of musicians exploring alternative genres.
- 4Californication, Blood Sugar Sex Magik, Stadium Arcadium
See: The Best Red Hot Chili Peppers Songs
Fusing funk-infused basslines with punk-rock energy, this Los Angeles quartet crafted a signature sound that defied genre boundaries. Known for their electrifying live shows and charismatic frontman Anthony Kiedis, they became a staple of alternative radio stations throughout the decade. Their eclectic mix of styles garnered widespread acclaim and influenced numerous bands seeking to break free from traditional rock norms.
- 5Ten, Vs., Vitalogy
Emerging from the ashes of Mother Love Bone, this Seattle quintet quickly rose to prominence as key players in the grunge movement. Led by Eddie Vedder's impassioned vocals and introspective lyrics, their anthemic sound resonated with fans seeking authenticity in the music scene. Their unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and social activism earned them a devoted fanbase that continues to thrive today.
- 6Wasting Light, The Colour and the Shape, Foo Fighters
See: The Best Foo Fighters Songs
Formed by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, this post-grunge outfit quickly established themselves as a formidable force in the rock world. With catchy hooks, soaring melodies, and a relentless work ethic, they became one of the most successful bands of the decade. Their versatile sound and enduring popularity have solidified their status as modern rock icons.
