These throwback tracks were the soundtrack of summer—and every cannonball.
Before Spotify and curated playlists, we relied on the radio and well-worn cassette tapes to create the soundtrack to our summers. The ’90s were a golden era for music, producing a catalog of feel-good anthems that perfectly captured the carefree spirit of the season. These weren’t just songs; they were the aural backdrop to every pool party, barbecue, and late-night drive.
These legendary jams were more than just hits; they were cultural touchstones that defined a generation. Each track brings back a flood of memories, from the first beat drop to the final chorus. They are the essential sounds of a ’90s summer, and they still have the power to get a party started today.
1. “Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince.
This song is the undisputed champion of summer anthems. From the moment the smooth, melodic beat drops, you’re transported to a warm, sun-drenched day with nothing to do but relax. Will Smith’s laid-back flow and the track’s easygoing vibe perfectly capture the essence of a long, lazy summer.
“Summertime” isn’t just a song about a season; it’s a feeling. It’s the sound of barbecues in the backyard, cruising with the windows down, and simply enjoying the moment. The song’s timeless appeal is in its ability to evoke a sense of pure, unadulterated nostalgia, making it a mandatory listen every time the weather gets warm.
2. “Wannabe” by the Spice Girls.
A pool party without the Spice Girls was simply incomplete. “Wannabe” was an infectious, high-energy pop anthem that was impossible not to sing along to. It was a powerful and fun song about female friendship, a celebration of a bond that was just as important as any romance. The track’s catchy chorus and playful lyrics made it an instant classic.
This song was a cultural phenomenon that defined the era. It was all about girl power, and it gave a voice to a generation of young women who were ready to take on the world. The song’s relentless energy and memorable choreography made it an essential part of any ’90s get-together.
3. “Waterfalls” by TLC.
While some summer anthems are all about the party, “Waterfalls” offered a deeper, more thoughtful vibe. With its smooth R&B melody and poignant lyrics about life’s struggles, the song was a reminder to stay grounded and not chase after reckless dreams. It was a song that you could listen to during a quiet moment by the water, reflecting on life.
TLC’s harmonies were flawless, and the song’s message was both powerful and gentle. It became a massive hit because it resonated with so many people on a personal level. “Waterfalls” proved that a summer song didn’t have to be just for dancing; it could also be a source of comfort and wisdom.
4. “I’m Too Sexy” by Right Said Fred.
This song was a playful and confident anthem that became a staple of every ’90s pool party. With its ridiculously catchy beat and self-aware lyrics, “I’m Too Sexy” was a humorous celebration of vanity. It was a song that didn’t take itself too seriously, which made it the perfect addition to a fun and carefree summer gathering.
The track’s simple but effective hook was impossible to forget, and it became an instant karaoke classic. It was a song that got people laughing and dancing, and its playful tone was a perfect fit for a season dedicated to having a good time without any pretense.
5. “One Week” by Barenaked Ladies.
The ultimate party song for those who appreciated a little wit, “One Week” was a lyrical masterpiece. The rapid-fire lyrics and nonsensical pop-culture references made it a challenge to sing along to, which was half the fun. It was a quirky, high-energy track that was a refreshing change of pace from the typical pop hits.
This song was all about embracing the fun and absurd. It became a must-play at any gathering where people wanted to show off their singing skills or simply enjoy a ridiculously catchy tune. The unique style of the Barenaked Ladies made “One Week” an unforgettable part of the ’90s soundscape.
6. “MMMBop” by Hanson.
The brothers from Hanson took the world by storm with their infectious, harmonized pop song “MMMBop.” This feel-good anthem was an instant hit, and its catchy chorus was on a constant loop in our heads. It was a song about friendship and the fleeting nature of time, but with a happy, upbeat energy that made it a perfect summer track.
“MMMBop” was the kind of song that you’d hear everywhere—on the radio, at the mall, and at every pool party. It was a testament to the power of a great melody and a simple, heartfelt message. The song’s youthful charm and undeniable catchiness made it a permanent fixture of ’90s summer memories.
7. “This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan.
The party truly started when Montell Jordan’s “This Is How We Do It” came on. With its smooth bassline and slick R&B vocals, the song was a celebration of a great night out. It was a track that commanded you to get on the dance floor and just let loose, a true anthem for a good time.
This song’s cool confidence and irresistible groove made it a huge hit. It was a testament to the power of a great beat and a simple, effective hook. “This Is How We Do It” was a soundtrack to every summer night and weekend, a song that perfectly captured the joy of a perfect party.
8. “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt.
While “Don’t Speak” is a heartbreaking ballad, its massive popularity meant it was an essential part of the ’90s music scene, even at parties. Gwen Stefani’s powerful vocals and the song’s emotional intensity made it a powerful sing-along moment. It was a song that you’d belt out with your friends, even if the lyrics were about a painful breakup.
The raw emotion and stunning performance made this song a classic. It was a different kind of party anthem—one for the quiet moments, the late-night talks, and the shared experiences of heartache. “Don’t Speak” showed that a summer soundtrack wasn’t just about happiness; it was about every feeling that came with growing up.
9. “Believe” by Cher.
Cher’s “Believe” was a technological marvel and an irresistible dance track. The use of auto-tune on her voice was groundbreaking at the time, and the song’s upbeat, empowering message made it a global phenomenon. It was a song about picking yourself up after a breakup and finding the strength to move on, making it a perfect anthem for a fresh start.
This song was pure disco-pop magic, a track that had everyone on their feet. The infectious beat and the inspirational lyrics made it a must-play at any party where people wanted to dance and feel good. “Believe” was a testament to the power of reinvention and the enduring joy of a great pop song.
10. “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega.
The definition of a one-hit wonder, “Mambo No. 5” was an absolute summer sensation. Lou Bega’s playful, spoken-word verses and the catchy mambo beat were an undeniable earworm. It was a fun, lighthearted song about a series of women’s names that somehow became a worldwide phenomenon, thanks to its infectious energy.
This song was a pure party starter. It was the kind of track that you’d hear at every summer gathering, with everyone trying to keep up with the lyrics. “Mambo No. 5” proved that sometimes, all you need for a great song is a fun beat and a memorable hook, and it remains a true ’90s summer classic.