Nirvana
Cushman says, “The 90s was a time when the underground and alternative became mainstream. Sounds that only graced college radio waves and passed-around mixtapes hit the top 40. Leading the charge was, undeniably, Nirvana.” Nirvana was a rock band started out of Washington that went on to become (arguably) the band most inextricably connected to the 1990s. Cushman says, “Their fuzzy guitar sound and raw vocals became a template for any teenager with a guitar. Their breakout album, Nevermind, was a sharp contrast to the glitz and polish of pop music and cemented the flannel-and-ripped-jeans genre of grunge across the globe.” Their core lineup included Kurt Cobain, Krist Novoselic, and Dave Grohl. The band was dissolved after Cobain’s death in 1994. Campbell says their sound was “melancholy,” “unique,” and “heavy,” with “pretty verses” overlaid by “distorted sounds.” Biggest hits: “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” “Come As You Are,” “Lithium.” Years active: 1987 – 1994. Notable awards: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2023), MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist (1992), American Music Award for Favorite Heavy Metal/Hard Rock Artist (1995). Meet the wikiHow Experts Scott Cushman is a musician specializing in the bass guitar based in Portland, Oregon. His band, Rad Max, has released two full-length albums and played shows all around the Pacific Northwest. Sean Campbell is a music teacher based in Santa Monica, CA. He specializing in delivering a unique learning experience to those who find traditional piano lessons uninspiring.
Soundgarden
Another Seattle-based rock band, and another pioneer of the grunge movement. While Soundgarden officially emerged in the mid-1980s, they spearheaded the grunge, alternative sound that would later become synonymous with the ‘90s. The band’s initial run (before a 2010s reunion) had a core lineup of Chris Cornell, Kim Thayil, and Hiro Yamamoto. However, they broke up in 1997 due to interpersonal issues and burnout. Biggest hits: “Black Hole Sun,” “Spoonman,” “Rusty Cage.” Years active: 1984 – 1997, 2010 – 2018. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance (1995), MTV Video Music Award for Best Metal/Hard Rock Video (1994).
Alice in Chains
Alice in Chains came out of Seattle as a heavy metal grunge band that soon achieved international fame. The group, originally made up of Layne Staley, Jerry Cantrell, Mike Starr, and Sean Kinney, was known for brooding lyrics and innovative vocal harmonies. Later, Mike Inez replaced Starr as the group’s bassist, and the band became inactive in 1996 (until a 2006 reunion). Biggest hits: “Man in the Box,” “Them Bones,” “Would?” Years active: 1987 – 1996, 2006 – present. Notable awards: MTV Video Music Award for Best Video from a Film (1993), Kerrang! Icon Award (2009).
The Smashing Pumpkins
The Smashing Pumpkins formed in 1988 as an alternative rock band in Chicago, Illinois. They quickly became a force in the alternative music scene, as their sound achieved a dynamic combination of grunge, metal, psychedelic, and art rock. Aside from well-known frontman Billy Corgan, the other members of the band have changed over time. Past and current members include James Iha, Jimmy Chamberlin, and D’Arcy Wretzky. Biggest hits: “Today,” “Disarm,” “Bullet with Butterfly Wings.” Years active: 1988 – 2000, 2006 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance (1997), MTV Video Music Award for Video of the Year (1996), American Music Award for Favorite Alternative Artist (1997).
Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam, another Seattle-based rock band, formed in 1990 and rose to fame with their 1991 album, Ten. Pearl Jam has a raw, iconic sound that’s heavily influenced by classic rock. Notable members of the band, both past and present, include Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready, Eddie Vedder, Matt Cameron, Dave Krusen, Dave Abbruzzese, and Jack Irons. Biggest hits: “Alive,” “Even Flow,” “Jeremy.” Years active: 1990 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance (1996), MTV Video Music Award for Video of the Year (1993), American Music Award for Favorite New Artist (1993).
Radiohead
Radiohead is one of the most well-known English bands of all time, but they were especially influential during the 1990s. Beginning with their formation in 1985, Radiohead’s experimental sound evolved over time from alternative rock to electronica art rock. The rock band’s members include Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Colin Greenwood, Ed O’Brien, and Philip Selway. Biggest hits: “Creep,” “Paranoid Android,” “Karma Police.” Years active: 1985 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album (1997), Grammy Award for Best Rock Song (2017), Ivor Novello Award for songwriting.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have a unique sound that fuses punk and funk. Led by members Anthony Kiedis and Flea, the group formed in Los Angeles in 1983. Their energetic music and enigmatic performances carried them through the 1980s, but they only became a breakthrough mainstream success after the release of 1991’s Blood Sugar Sex Magik. Biggest hits: “Under the Bridge,” “Dani California,” “Californication.” Years active: 1983 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance with Vocal (1993), Grammy Award for Best Rock Album (2007).
Green Day
This American rock band was formed in California in 1987, consisting of members Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt, and Tré Cool. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Green Day helped to bring about a mainstream resurgence in punk rock, with a special focus on energetic performances and politically conscious lyrics. Biggest hits: “American Idiot,” “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life),” “When I Come Around.” Years active: 1987 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Rock Album (2005), Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Performance (1995), MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist (1994).
Weezer
Weezer is an alternative rock band with a power-pop style, catchy tracks, and quirky lyrics. They formed in Los Angeles in 1992 and have since released numerous chart-topping hits and fan favorites. Their most well-known and consistent line-up includes Rivers Cuomo, Patrick Wilson, Brian Bell, and Scott Shriner, although other notable members include Matt Sharp and Mikey Welsh. Biggest hits: “Buddy Holly,” “Undone (The Sweater Song),” “Beverly Hills.” Years active: 1992 – present, with a brief hiatus from 1997 to 2000. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video (2009), MTV Video Music Award for Best Alternative Video (1995), Billboard Music Video Award for Breakthrough Video (1995).
2Pac
2Pac, or Tupac Shakur, was an American rapper who continues to be celebrated as one of the all-time greats of rap music. 2Pac wrote evocative, raw, and socially-conscious lyrics that tackled issues like poverty, racism, social injustice, and violence. Tragically, Shakur was murdered in a drive-by shooting in 1996. Biggest hits: “Dear Mama,” “California Love,” “Keep Ya Head Up.” Years active: 1991 – 1996. Notable awards: American Music Award for Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Artist (1997), Soul Train Music Award for Best Rap Album (1996), Soul Train Music Award for R&B/Soul or Rap Album of the Year (1997).
Ms. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill became known as one of the most influential musical artists of the ‘90s with just one solo album: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998). Prior to this release, Hill, who is a rapper, singer, and songwriter, became well-known as a member of the Fugees. She’s since been celebrated for her unique and masterful blend of hip-hop, soul, and R&B. Biggest hits: “Doo Wop (That Thing),” “Ex-Factor,” “Everything Is Everything.” Years active: As a solo artist, she’s released music intermittently from 1998 to the present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Album of the Year (1999), Grammy Award for Best New Artist (1999), MTV Video Music Award for Video of the Year (1999).
Rage Against the Machine
Rage Against the Machine is an American rock band whose sound combines rap, metal, and funk. Their lyrics are also politically conscious, focusing on anti-authoritarian and anti-capitalist views. Their members included Zack de la Rocha, Tom Morello, Tim Commerford, and Brad Wilk. Biggest hits: “Killing in the Name,” “Bulls on Parade,” “Guerrilla Radio.” Years active: 1991 – 2000, 2007 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance (1997), Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance (2001).
Oasis
Cushman says, “In the mid-90s, Oasis brought us laid-back hooks and sing-along vocals. Their album, (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, was one of the best-selling albums of the decade. You could hear all of those tracks blasting out of car windows and jukeboxes everywhere you went.” This iconic English rock band was made up of singer-songwriter duo Liam and Noel Gallagher (they’re also brothers!). Oasis became a prominent leader of the 1990s Britpop movement by releasing hard-hitting rock anthems, penning lyrical ballads, and fueling gossip with their notable sibling rivalry. They split in 2009 after a backstage fight between the brothers, but recently reunited for a 2025 reunion tour. Biggest hits: “Wonderwall,” “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” “Supersonic.” Years active: 1991 – 2009, 2024 – present. Notable awards: Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music (2007), Brit Award for Best British Album of the Last 30 Years (2010).
The Cranberries
The Cranberries were a highly influential Irish rock band that defined much of the alternative-pop sound of the 1990s. Their music combined indie rock, jangle pop, and folk rock with emotional lyrics focused on current cultural issues. Members included Fergal Lawler, Noel Hogan, Michael Gerard Hogan, Steve DeMarchi, and Niall Quinn. However, the band is perhaps best identified by the late Dolores O’Riordan’s enchanting and distinctive vocals. Biggest hits: “Zombie,” “Linger,” “Dreams.” Years active: 1989 – 2003, 2009 – 2018. Notable awards: MTV Europe Music Award for “Best Song” (1995), “World Music Award for Best Irish Recording Artists (1995), Juno Award for International Album of the Year (1996).
The Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G. (or Biggie Smalls) is one of the most notable rappers of all time, but he was especially significant to the East Coast hip-hop scene in the ‘90s. His records showcased a mastery of storytelling lyrics, featuring witty wordplay and a relaxed sound. Biggie’s career tragically ended after his murder in March 1997. Biggest hits: “Juicy,” “Big Poppa,” “One More Chance.” Years active: 1992 – 1997. Notable awards: Billboard Music Award for Artist of the Year.
Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston is widely celebrated as one of the greatest singers of all time, with powerful and soulful vocals that gave her the nickname, “The Voice.” While Houston was certainly popular in the 1980s, some of her most influential and well-known works came about in the ‘90s. Houston, who passed away in 2012, has sold over 220 million records worldwide and is remembered as one of the best-selling musical artists of all time. Biggest hits: “I Will Always Love You,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me),” “How Will I Know.” Years active: 1977 – 2012. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Record of the Year (1994), Grammy Award for Album of the Year (1994), Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance (1988).
Pantera
Pantera was a heavy metal band that first formed in Texas in 1981. The band was initially founded by brothers Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul, and later recruited additional members like Terry Glaze, Phil Anselmo, and Rex Brown. Pantera started out as an ‘80s glam rock band, but they soon transitioned into groove and metal rock, becoming a hugely influential group in that genre. The band disbanded due to interpersonal conflicts in 2003, but the surviving members (Anselmo and Brown) announced a reunion tour in 2022. Biggest hits: “Walk,” “Cemetery Gates,” “Cowboys from Hell.” Years active: 1981 – 2003, 2022 – present. Notable awards: The Kerrang! Hall of Fame Award (2013).
Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre is a globally-renowned rapper and record producer who’s been highly influential in the hip-hop genre and G-funk subgenre. In recent years, he launched his own entertainment company and has helped to launch the careers of notable stars, like Eminem, 50 Cent, and Kendrick Lamar. Biggest hits: “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang,” “Let Me Ride,” “No Diggity.” Years active: 1984 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Producer of the Year (2000), Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance (1994), the Recording Academy’s Dr. Dre Global Impact Award (2023).
Metallica
Metallica is one of the most famous heavy metal bands of all time and quickly became commercially successful after being formed in 1981 by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich. Coming out of Los Angeles, the group pioneered “thrash metal,” a sub-genre known for its quick tempos and aggressive sound. Other notable members of Metallica included Dave Mustaine, Ron McGovney, Kirk Hammett, and Cliff Burton. Biggest hits: “Enter Sandman,” “Master of Puppets,” “Nothing Else Matters.” Years active: 1981 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance (1990), Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance (2000), MTV Video Music Award for Best Rock Video (1996).
Céline Dion
Céline Dion is a French Canadian pop singer who became a global superstar in the 1990s. Her enduring influence is due to her distinctive and powerful voice, emotional ballads, and catchy melodies. A native of Quebec, Dion has recorded albums in both English and French. Biggest hits: “My Heart Will Go On,” “The Power of Love,” “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.” Years active: 1980 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Album of the Year (1997), Grammy Award for Record of the Year (1999), Academy Award for Best Original Song (1992).
Shania Twain
Shania Twain is a Canadian singer-songwriter who’s known as the Queen of Country Pop. Since her rise to global stardom in the mid-1990s, Twain has built a legacy as one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She was one of the first musicians to blend country, pop, and rock music, a style that has since become a popular sub-genre among prominent artists of more recent generations. Biggest hits: “You’re Still the One,” “Man! I Feel Like a Woman,” “That Don’t Impress Me Much.” Years active: 1983 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Country Album (1996), Grammy Award for Best Country Song (1999, 2000), Country Music Association Award for Entertainer of the Year (1999).
Selena
Selena (or Selena Quintanilla-Pérez) was an American singer who was known as the Queen of Tejano Music, which blended American pop with Mexican and Latin influences. Selena’s powerful voice, evocative lyrics, energetic performances, and dynamic style made her one of the most influential Mexican-American musicians of all time. Tragically, Selena was murdered in 1995 at the age of 23. Biggest hits: “Como La Flor,” “Amor Prohibido,” “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom.” Years active: 1981 – 1995. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Mexican-American Album (1994), Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2021), Tejano Music Award for Female Vocalist of the Year (nine consecutive wins, from 1987 to 1995).
Korn
Korn (or, KoЯn) is a nu-metal band that formed in California in 1993. The group is often credited with pioneering and popularizing the aggressive-sounding nu-metal sub-genre, which blends metal with hip-hop, funk, and emotional lyrics. Over the decades, Korn has included key members like Jonathan Davis, James “Munky” Shaffer, Brian “Head” Welch, Reginald “Fieldy” Arvizu, David Silveria, and Ray Luzier. Biggest hits: “Freak on a Leash,” “Got the Life,” “Blind.” Years active: 1993 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video (2000), MTV Video Music Award for Best Rock Video (1999), MTV Video Music Award for Best Editing (1999).
Backstreet Boys
The Backstreet Boys are one of the most well-known boy bands of the 1990s. They formed in Florida in 1993 with members Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell, and Kevin Richardson. After the release of their self-titled debut album and 1999’s Millennium, they became global superstars and went on to be named as one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Biggest hits: “I Want It That Way,” “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” “As Long as You Love Me.” Years active: 1993 - present (with a hiatus between 2002 and 2005). Notable awards: Billboard Music Award for Artist of the Year (1999), Billboard Music Award for Album of the Year (1999), American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Band, Duo, or Group (1999).
Alanis Morissette
Alanis Morissette is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter known for emotionally raw lyrics, a distinctive mezzo voice, and masterful storytelling within her songwriting. Her 1995 album Jagged Little Pill granted her international stardom as an alternative rock singer, and she remains one of the artists who’s most closely associated with the culture of the ‘90s. Biggest hits: “You Oughta Know,” “Ironic,” “Hand in My Pocket.” Years active: 1986 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Album of the Year (1996), Grammy Award for Best Rock Album (1996), Grammy Award for Best Rock Song (1996, 1998).
Jeff Buckley
Jeff Buckley was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist who became lauded for enchantingly melodic vocals, intricate guitar playing, and emotionally evocative performances. Although Buckley released only one studio album during his lifetime, he remains a highly influential cult figure in the music world. Tragically, he died in 1997 at the age of thirty. Biggest hits: “Hallelujah,” “Last Goodbye,” “Lover, You Should’ve Come Over.” Years active: 1991 – 1997. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance (1998), “Grand Prix International Du Disque” (1995).
Beck
Beck is an American singer-songwriter with an eclectic style that encompasses multiple genres—including folk, alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronica. Born Bek David Campbell, Beck first started performing as a busker in L.A. during the late 1980s. In 1994, his breakout single, “Loser,” became an immediate hit due to its lo-fi sound and witty lyricism. Biggest hits: “Loser,” “Where It’s At,” “Devils Haircut.” Years active: 1994 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Album of the Year (2015), Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album (1997, 2000, 2019), Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance (1997).
Beastie Boys
The Beastie Boys were an influential American hip-hop group during the 1990s, although they got their start in the early 1980s. The group was made up of Michael "Mike D" Diamond, Adam "MCA" Yauch, and Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz, and they actually started off as a hardcore punk band before evolving into a hip-hop trio. The group was active up until 2012, when Yauch passed away from cancer. Biggest hits: “(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (to Party!),” “No Sleep till Brooklyn,” “Hold It Now, Hit It.” Years active: 1981 – 2012. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album (1998), Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Album (2007), the MTV Video Vanguard Lifetime Achievement Award (1998).
R.E.M.
R.E.M. was an American alternative rock band out of Athens, Georgia. The group was formed in 1980 with members Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Bill Berry. They’re often credited with bringing alternative rock to the mainstream throughout the 1980s and 1990s, and they were especially beloved for their folk-rock sound, distinctive guitar melodies, and complex lyrics. Biggest hits: “Losing My Religion,” “Everybody Hurts,” “Man on the Moon.” Years active: 1980 – 2011. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album (1992), Grammy Award for Best Music Video (1992), Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award (1995).
Mariah Carey
While Mariah Carey has certainly been an influential artist throughout multiple decades, she first rose to stardom during the 1990s. Carey, a singer-songwriter known for her five-octave vocal range and dynamic whistle notes, is one of the best-selling musical artists of all time. She’s even been dubbed the “Queen of Christmas,” due to her 1994 single, “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Biggest hits: “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” “Vision of Love,” “Hero.” Years active: 1988 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best New Artist (1991), Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance (1991), Billboard’s Artist of the Decade for the 1990s.
Nine Inch Nails
Nine Inch Nails is a band and musical project born out of the mind of Trent Reznor. Reznor founded the industrial rock band in 1988, with a sound that combined electronic music and aggressive rock. Over the years, Reznor has remained the only consistent member, with other important figures including Atticus Ross, Josh Freese, Ilan Rubin, and Robin Finck. The group’s lyrics are often tumultuous, angst-ridden, and societally-conscious, and they’re paired with a dark and aggressive musical sound. Biggest hits: “Closer,” “Head Like a Hole,” “Hurt.” Years active: 1988 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance (1992), Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance (1995), Academy Award for Best Original Score (2010).
U2
U2 is a hugely successful Irish rock band that formed in 1976. The band’s members, which include Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr., have achieved an anthemic rock sound that’s had a significant influence on the music industry. They’re also known for innovative guitar licks and politically aware lyrics. While U2 has been active for decades, the height of their fame and commercial success happened between the 1980s and 1990s. Biggest hits: “With or Without You,” “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” “One.” Years active: 1976 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Album of the Year (1988), Grammy Award for Record of the Year (2001), Brit Award for International Group (1989).
A Tribe Called Quest
A Tribe Called Quest was an American hip hop group that made a significant impact on the genre between 1985 and 1996. The group’s official members included Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and Jarobi White, and they were also co-founders and members of the Native Tongues collective. They’re largely credited with pioneering alternative hip hop and jazz rap. Biggest hits: “Bonita Applebum,” “Buggin’ Out,” “Award Tour.” Years active: 1985 – 1996, 2006 – 2016. Notable awards: Brit Award for International Group (2017), Billboard R&B/Hop-Hop Founders Award (2005).
Björk
Björk, whose full name is Björk Guðmundsdóttir, is an Icelandic singer-songwriter who started her career at 11 years old. After gaining international recognition as part of alternative rock band The Sugarcubes, Björk launched her solo career. She quickly became popular and well-known for her distinctive vocals, eccentric sense of style, and genre-less records. She’s dipped her toe into and blended genres like electronica, trip-hop, jazz, classical music, and avant-garde. Biggest hits: “Human Behaviour,” “Army of Me,” “Hyperballad.” Years active: 1976 – present. Notable awards: Brit Award for International Breakthrough Act (1994), Brit Award for International Female Solo Artist (1994, 1996, 1998), Icelandic Music Award for Album of the Year (1996).
PJ Harvey
Polly Jean “PJ” Harvey is an English singer-songwriter and instrumentalist. Since getting her start in 1988, Harvey has cemented herself as one of the most influential and important voices in alternative rock. Her musical style has constantly evolved over the years, and her sound is distinctively raw and powerful. Biggest hits: “This Mess We’re In,” “Down by the Water,” “Good Fortune.” Years active: 1988 – present. Notable awards: The Mercury Prize (2000, 2011), Rolling Stone Award for Best Songwriter (1992), Rolling Stone Award for Artist of the Year (1995).
Tori Amos
Tori Amos is an American singer-songwriter and pianist who started off as a classically trained piano prodigy. In the 1980s, Amos tried to (unsuccessfully) launch a career as a mainstream pop artist. However, she soon found success as a solo artist in the 1990s with a renewed focus on mesmerizing melodies and emotional lyrics that address sexuality, feminism, politics, religion, and other social issues. Biggest hits: “Cornflake Girl,” “Silent All These Years,” “Crucify.” Years active: 1979 – present. Notable awards: The Echo Klassik Award (2012), the George Peabody Medal (2019), Inspirational Artist Women in Music Award (2024).
Phish
Phish is an American rock band that originally formed in Vermont in 1983. While Phish was certainly active in the 1980s, they achieved mainstream popularity in the ‘90s and became a leading influence in the decade’s ‘jam band’ scene. Their music, which is known for an improvisational style, tends to shift and blend different genres, including rock, jazz, funk, and bluegrass. Consistent members of Phish include Trey Anastasio, Mike Gordon, Jon Fishman, and Page McConnell. Biggest hits: “You Enjoy Myself,” “Harry Hood,” “Tweezer.” Years active: 1983 – 2000, 2002 – 2004, 2008 – present. Notable awards: Jammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2008).
Sonic Youth
Sonic Youth was an experimental rock band with a noise-rock sound that became massively influential during the ‘80s and ‘90s. The group, which had its roots in New York City, was a pioneer of alternative and indie rock, and they were especially known for unconventional guitar tunings and timbres. Their core lineup included Thurston Moore, Kim Gordon, Lee Ranaldo, and Steve Shelley. However, Sonic Youth officially dissolved in 2011, after Moore and Gordon’s divorce. Biggest hits: “Kool Thing,” “100%,” “Teen Age Riot.” Years active: 1981 – 2011. Notable awards: Sitges Award for Best Original Soundtrack (2022).
Guns N’ Roses
Guns N’ Roses is an American rock band that was founded in Los Angeles in 1985. As one of America’s most iconic hard rock bands, Guns N’ Roses is known for their gritty sound, which carried them from the underground scene to mainstream success throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. Biggest hits: “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” “Paradise City,” “Welcome to the Jungle.” Years active: 1985 – present. Notable awards: American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Single (1989), American Music Award for Favorite Heavy Metal/Hard Rock Artist (1990, 1992), MTV Video Music Award for Best Heavy Metal Video (1989).
Blur
Blur is a London-based rock band that formed in 1988. The band includes members Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James, and Dave Rowntree. Blur is commonly cited as a defining musical act within the 1990s Britpop movement, but they’ve also successfully shifted their musical style and sound over the decades. Biggest hits: “Girls & Boys,” “Country House,” “Song 2.” Years active: 1988 – present (with hiatuses from 2003-2009 and 2015-2022). Notable awards: Brit Award for British Album of the Year (1995), Brit Award for British Single of the Year (1995), Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music (2012).
Jane’s Addiction
Jane’s Addiction formed in Los Angeles in 1985 and has since become one of the most significant acts in alternative music. The band successfully crafted a distinctive and innovative sound, blending alternative rock, metal, psychedelic rock, and funk. Jane’s Addiction was fronted by Perry Farrell, with other members—like Eric Avery, Stephen Perkins, and Dave Navarro—entering and exiting with the band’s numerous tumultuous breakups and reunions. Biggest hits: “Been Caught Stealing,” “Jane Says,” “Stop.” Years active: 1985 – 1991, 2001 – 2004, 2008 – 2010, 2024 – 2024. Notable awards: MTV Video Music Award for Best Alternative Video (1991), Godlike Genius Award (2008).
Liz Phair
Liz Phair is a celebrated singer-songwriter in the alternative rock scene who rose to fame in the early 1990s. Phair, who’s also known as a skilled guitarist, became famous for her unfiltered, blunt, and sometimes sexually explicit lyrics. With her courage to challenge traditional conventions and norms, Phair became the voice and inspiration of a generation. Her debut album, Exile on Main St. (1993), is widely cited as one of the most accomplished debut albums of all time. Biggest hits: “Supernova,” “Never Said,” “Why Can’t I?” Years active: 1990 – present. Notable awards: ASCAP Award for Top Television Series (2009, 2010).
Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige, also known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” is a hugely influential American singer and songwriter. She sings an innovative blend of R&B and hip-hop, pioneering the addition of soul to this genre and popularizing it within mainstream culture. Her career truly took off after releasing her groundbreaking 1992 debut album, What’s the 411? Biggest hits: “Real Love,” “No Gon’ Cry,” “Family Affair.” Years active: 1988 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group (1996), Grammy Award for Best R&B Song (2007), Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live) (2022).
Foo Fighters
The Foo Fighters are a Seattle-based rock band that was created by Dave Grohl in 1994. Grohl, the famed drummer for Nirvana, founded the Foo Fighters after Kurt Cobain’s tragic death and Nirvana’s subsequent dissolution. Besides Grohl, the group’s core members include Nate Mendel, Chris Shiflett, Pat Smear, Rami Jaffee, Taylor Hawkins, and Josh Freese. The Foo Fighters' sound typically blends hard rock with innovative melodies, which has helped to make the group one of the longest-lasting rock bands from the ‘90s. Biggest hits: “Everlong,” “Best of You,” “The Pretender.” Years active: 1994 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Rock Album (2001, 2004, 2008), Grammy Award for Best Music Video (2001), American Music Award for Favorite Rock Artist (2011).
Sinéad O’Connor
Sinéad O’Connor was an Irish singer-songwriter and record producer who rose to international fame with the 1990 hit, “Nothing Compares 2 U.” Along with her powerful voice and musical prowess, O’Connor was especially notable due to her refusal to conform to the norms and expectations of society or the music industry. She refused to participate in the Grammy nominations to protest commercialization, and she famously tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II during a Saturday Night Live performance in order to protest the Catholic Church’s abuse of children. O’Connor had a storied life and long career, as she remained active in the music world until her death in 2023. Biggest hits: “Nothing Compares 2 U,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “Famine.” Years active: 1983 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Performance (1991), Rolling Stone Artist of the Year (1991).
Missy Elliot
Missy Elliot is a rapper, singer, and songwriter who’s best known for her groundbreaking sound and innovative music videos. Elliot, in partnership with collaborator Timbaland, pioneered her futuristic and surrealist style of hip-hop and R&B. She began her career as part of the R&B group Sista, then released her solo debut in 1997. Biggest hits: “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly),” “Get Ur Freak On,” “Work It.” Years active: 1988 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Female Rap Solo Performance (2004), Billboard Music Award for Female R&B/Hip-Hop Artist of the Year (2001), Billboard's Women in Music Innovator Award (2015).
Sheryl Crow
Sheryl Crow is an American singer-songwriter with music that blends the rock, pop, country, folk, and blues genres. In the late ‘80s, Crow worked as a backing vocalist for Michael Jackson and other notable artists. In 1993, however, she released her debut album to widespread acclaim, jumpstarting her long and legendary career. Biggest hits: “All I Wanna Do,” “If It Makes You Happy,” “Soak Up the Sun.” Years active: 1983 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Song of the Year (1995), Grammy Award for Best Rock Album (1997), Brit Award for Best International Female Solo Artist (1997).
Creed
Creed is a Florida-based American rock band known for a post-grunge sound. Formed in 1994, Creed’s members have included Scott Stapp, Mark Tremonti, Scott Phillips, Brian Marshall, and Brian Brasher. The band saw great commercial success between the late 1990s and early 2000s, although some of their work and behavior was controversial. The band dissolved in 2004, only to reunite from 2009 to 2012 and again in 2023. Biggest hits: “Higher,” “With Arms Wide Open,” “My Sacrifice.” Years active: 1994 – present. Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best Rock Song (2001), American Music Award for Favorite Alternative Artist (2001), Billboard Music Award for Rock Artist of the Year (1998).
Hootie & The Blowfish
Hootie & the Blowfish is a rock band that was formed in South Carolina in 1986. Their signature sound, which made them one of the highest-selling bands of the 1990s, blends a mix of rock, pop, and blues. The soulful voice of lead singer Darius Rucker lends them a particularly distinctive sound, complemented by the work of members Mark Bryan, Dean Felber, and Jim Sonefeld. Biggest hits: “Hold My Hand,” “Let Her Cry,” “Only Wanna Be With You.” Years active: 1986 – present (with a hiatus from 2008 to 2018). Notable awards: Grammy Award for Best New Artist (1996), Billboard Music Award for Band of the Year (1996), American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock New Artist (1996).
Barenaked Ladies
Barenaked Ladies (or BNL) is an alternative rock band out of Ontario, Canada. Formed by singer-guitarists Ed Robertson and Steven Page, BNL achieved commercial success in Canada before becoming globally known for clever lyrics and energetic live performances. The members of BNL (past and present) include Andy Creeggan, Jim Creeggan, Tyler Stewart, and Kevin Hearn. Biggest hits: “One Week,” “If I Had a Million Dollars,” “Pinch Me.” Years active: 1988 – present. Notable awards: Billboard Music Video Award for Best Clip (Alternative/Modern Rock) (1998), Juno Award for Group of the Year (1993), Juno Award for Best Pop Album (1999).
Britney Spears
Britney Spears (also known as the “Princess of Pop”) is an American singer, dancer, and actress who rose to fame in the late 1990s. At age 15, Spears made a demo tape of her songs and quickly signed a deal with Jive Records, releasing her first single, “…Baby One More Time,” in 1998. Spears has since released several hit albums, acted in a film, held a Las Vegas residency, and published a memoir entitled The Woman in Me. Cushman notes, “Later in the decade, polished production came back into fashion in a big way with boy bands and solo acts. Nobody captured that musical landscape like Britney Spears. Her catchy pop songs were everywhere and brought the dance floor to the pop charts.” Biggest hits: “…Baby One More Time,” “Oops!... I Did It Again,” “Toxic.” Years active: 1998 – present. Notable awards: Grammy for "Toxic" (2005), the MTV Video Vanguard Award (2011), Billboard Millennium Award (2016), inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2003).
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