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'Wonderwall' – Oasis -

A timeless Britpop anthem, 'Wonderwall' is full of introspection and memorable melodies that defined the mid-90s alternative scene.

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'Fantasy' – Mariah Carey -

A timeless classic, 'Fantasy' is an infectious hit that blends Mariah Carey's signature R&B style with a sample from Tom Tom Club's 'Genius of Love.'

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'Gangsta’s Paradise' – Coolio feat. L.V. -

'Gangsta's Paradise' is a soulful rap hit reflecting life's struggles, famously featured in 'Dangerous Minds,' a 1995 film starring Michelle Pfeiffer about a teacher inspiring at-risk students.

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'You Are Not Alone' – Michael Jackson - An emotional ballad, 'You Are Not Alone' highlights Michael Jackson's heartfelt vocals, with themes of love, support, and comfort.

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'Ironic' – Alanis Morissette -

An edgy, ironic reflection on life's absurdities, 'Ironic' combines raw emotion and sharp wit with unforgettable lyrics, solidifying Alanis Morissette as a defining '90s artist.

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'Waterfalls' – TLC -

Often considered one of TLC's signature songs along with 'No Scrubs,' 'Waterfalls' became an international hit, addressing tough issues like HIV and gang violence.

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'Exhale (Shoop Shoop)' – Whitney Houston -

A soulful, empowering ballad about love, resilience, and strength, this track once again highlights Whitney Houston's unmatched vocal power.

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'Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me' – U2 - A dramatic rock anthem from 'Batman Forever' (1995), this track blends cinematic intensity with U2's signature sound.

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'Take a Bow' – Madonna -

An orchestral ballad about heartbreak and longing, this song highlights Madonna's emotive depth and vocal maturity, further cementing her as a pop icon. 

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'Colors of the Wind' – Vanessa Williams -

An Oscar-winning ballad from 'Pocahontas' (1995), 'Colors of the Wind' emphasizes cultural understanding, respect for nature, and the beauty of diversity.

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'Bullet with Butterfly Wings' – Smashing Pumpkins -

This alt-rock classic pulses with intensity, exploring themes of disillusionment and frustration, driven by electrifying energy and raw emotion.

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'Boombastic' – Shaggy -

A dancehall-infused hit full of swagger and irresistible rhythms, 'Boombastic' brought Shaggy's unique sound to mainstream audiences worldwide.

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'Don’t Speak' – No Doubt -

A breakup anthem since 1995, this track blends ska rhythms with alternative rock, perfectly capturing the pain and heartbreak of a relationship's end.

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'Dear Mama' – Tupac -

A heartfelt tribute to mothers, 'Dear Mama' is filled with raw emotion. The legendary rapper expressed deep appreciation for their sacrifices and love.

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'Always' – Bon Jovi -

A sweeping power ballad that became a global hit, 'Always' showcases Bon Jovi's emotional intensity and timeless appeal.

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'On Bended Knee' – Boyz II Men - A heartfelt R&B ballad about redemption, this classic track is filled with rich harmonies and emotional vulnerability.

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'Kiss from a Rose' – Seal -

A lush, romantic ballad, 'Kiss from a Rose' was immortalized by its feature in 'Batman Forever,' blending haunting lyrics and emotional depth.

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'You Were Meant for Me' – Jewel - A simple, heartfelt folk-pop ballad that propelled Jewel into the spotlight, this song captures vulnerability and longing.

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'Back for Good' – Take That - A pop ballad about reconciliation, 'Back for Good' features heartfelt vocals and lush production, resonating deeply with listeners.

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'No More 'I Love You's' – Annie Lennox -

Showing off Annie Lennox's unique vocals, this haunting ballad explores the complex emotions of love and loss.

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'Scream' – Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson -

A high-energy brother-sister duet, 'Scream' addresses media pressures with electrifying beats, creating an unforgettable anthem.

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'This Is How We Do It' – Montell Jordan -

An iconic party anthem, 'This Is How We Do It' blends smooth R&B grooves with catchy hooks, perfectly capturing the vibe of '90s West Coast nightlife and culture.

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'Shy Guy' – Diana King -

A reggae-infused pop hit, 'Shy Guy' celebrates individuality and irresistible attraction, blending smooth melodies and catchy hooks.

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'I Like It, I Love It' – Tim McGraw -

A lighthearted country hit about love and devotion, 'I Like It, I Love It' blends catchy melodies with a playful twist.

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'Baby' – Brandy -

A smooth R&B hit, 'Baby' showcases Brandy's soulful vocals and catchy melodies, cementing her rise to stardom.

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'December' – Collective Soul -

A melancholic post-grunge hit, 'December' blends reflective lyrics with uplifting guitar riffs, creating an emotional contrast.

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'Roll to Me' – Del Amitri -

Featuring upbeat melodies and heartfelt lyrics about love and cherishing someone special, this '95 hit is an irresistibly catchy alt-rock anthem.

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'You Gotta Be' – Des'ree -

An empowering anthem of resilience, 'You Gotta Be' features a soulful melody and uplifting lyrics that encourage strength and perseverance.

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'Freak Like Me' – Adina Howard - An empowering R&B track, 'Freak Like Me' celebrates confidence, sensuality, and individuality, with a bold, unforgettable chorus.

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'Hold My Hand' – Hootie & the Blowfish -

An uplifting alt-rock anthem, 'Hold My Hand' brings people together with its message of support and shared strength.

Sources: (Billboard) 

See also: The best TV shows from the '90s

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