Best-selling debut albums of the 90s

A debut album that defined the trip-hop sound, with dark atmospheres, jazz samples, and Beth Gibbons' ethereal voice. It is considered a legendary work that marked a new direction in music.

A foundational album of the Seattle grunge movement, 'Ten' solidified Pearl Jam as one of the decade's most influential bands. Despite slow initial sales, it achieved 13 times platinum in the U.S.

This pioneering album fused metal, rock, and rap with political and social protest lyrics, setting the standard for rap metal. It became an influential masterpiece of the decade.

The alternative rock band's self-titled debut album, known for its catchy melodies and geeky lyrics. It is an iconic 90s album that influenced alternative rock and pop-punk.

The rapper's only studio album released during his lifetime, considered an East Coast hip-hop classic. It is a fundamental album that solidified Notorious B.I.G.'s legend.

The singer-songwriter's debut album, acclaimed for its introspective lyrics, powerful voice, and musical style that fuses pop, jazz, and alternative rock. It established Fiona Apple as a unique artist.

The British band's debut album, which combined glam rock swagger with grunge attitude, marking the beginning of Britpop. It is a legendary effort with significant impact.

Lauryn Hill's acclaimed solo debut album fuses hip-hop, R&B, soul, jazz, and reggae with profound lyrics. It achieved 10 times platinum and broke sales records for a female artist.

The influential debut album of the hip-hop collective, known for its raw sound, distinctive lyrics, and the chemistry among its members. It is a pillar of 90s hip-hop.

The Irish band's first album, featuring Dolores O'Riordan's distinctive voice and a melodic alternative rock sound. It was a successful debut that laid the groundwork for their international recognition.

The debut album that catapulted Britney Spears to pop stardom, with catchy songs and a bubblegum pop sound. It was a cultural phenomenon and one of the best-selling debut albums by a female artist.

The innovative debut album by the rapper and producer, which fused hip-hop, R&B, and electronic elements with an avant-garde style. It marked a before and after in hip-hop and R&B.

The Icelandic artist's first solo album, which explored an innovative mix of electronic, pop, house, and jazz. It was a revolutionary record that showcased Björk's unique vision.

This album marked Alanis Morissette's international debut, blending alternative rock with introspective and emotional lyrics. It is one of the best-selling debut albums in history, redefining the sound of female rock in the 90s.

The self-titled debut album that launched the 'boy band' to global fame, reaching 14 times platinum in the U.S. It marked the resurgence of boy bands in the 90s.

The debut album from another of the decade's biggest boy bands, it achieved 10 times platinum. It contributed to the boy band phenomenon of the late 90s.

Considered a hip-hop classic, this debut album is praised for its complex lyrics, vivid narratives, and innovative production. It is recognized as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.