Most iconic rock songs of the 90s

A Britpop anthem, The Verve's 'Bittersweet Symphony' became a global hit. It is remembered for its iconic music video, its distinctive orchestral melody with a sample from The Rolling Stones, and its melancholic lyrics.

This powerful protest song by The Cranberries, with Dolores O'Riordan's distinctive voice and a grunge/alternative sound, addresses the conflict in Northern Ireland. Its message and emotional intensity have made it an enduring classic.

This alternative rock anthem by The Smashing Pumpkins, with its powerful sound and introspective lyrics, captured the angst of the decade. It won a Grammy and is representative of their masterpiece 'Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness'.

Considered one of Foo Fighters' best songs, 'Everlong' is a rock ballad with a catchy melody and growing emotional intensity. It's a staple at their concerts and one of the most beloved alternative rock songs of the late 90s.

A massive hit from the late 90s, Third Eye Blind's 'Semi-Charmed Life' encapsulates the alternative rock sound of the era. Its fast pace and lyrics that contrast with the upbeat melody made it catchy and memorable.

This short, energetic, and loud track by Blur, with its famous 'woo-hoo', is a Britpop anthem. It became an international hit, widely used in media and sporting events for its contagious energy and cultural impact.

This song is the definitive grunge anthem and a cultural turning point that brought alternative rock to the mainstream. Its iconic riff and raw energy cemented it as the voice of a generation.

Written by Chris Cornell, this song is one of Soundgarden's most popular and a cornerstone of grunge. Its music video, widely aired on MTV, was almost as iconic as the song itself, solidifying its legacy.

This powerful Guns N' Roses ballad, with its sweeping orchestral arrangements and poignant lyrics, became a radio hit. It's one of the band's signature songs and a timeless classic about love and loss.

This Radiohead track, with its progressive rock undertones, connected with feelings of anguish and strangeness, cementing the band's status. It created beauty from complex emotions, becoming a generational anthem.

Famous for its mandolin riff and lyrics of unrequited love, this song is one of R.E.M.'s most recognized classics. It's a key example of how alternative music stormed the mainstream in the 90s.

One of Britpop's anthems, Oasis' 'Wonderwall' combines classic pop melodies with guitars that evoke a working-class feel. Its glorious chorus and timeless appeal keep it one of the decade's most recognizable songs.

This introspective Red Hot Chili Peppers ballad contrasted with their usual aggressive funk, demonstrating the band's versatility. It became one of their biggest hits, bringing their sound to a wider audience.

With powerful guitar riffs and social and political protest lyrics, this Rage Against The Machine song is an alternative rock and rap metal anthem. It remains relevant for its anti-establishment message and raw energy.

A pillar of 90s punk rock, Green Day's 'Basket Case,' with its fast and catchy rhythm, addresses anxiety and paranoia. It was one of the band's biggest hits and helped define the sound of pop-punk for the decade.

With an iconic guitar riff and a dark, heavy atmosphere, 'Enter Sandman' is one of the most recognizable metal songs of the 90s. It marked a turning point in Metallica's sound and is a cornerstone of their live shows.

This powerful Metallica ballad, with orchestral arrangements and introspective lyrics, demonstrated the band's versatility. It became one of their most popular songs, transcending the metal genre and reaching a wider audience.

This creative milestone by Red Hot Chili Peppers brought their fun, aggressive funk to a wider audience. Featuring John Frusciante's guitar and Flea's bass, it's a perfect example of the band's characteristic energy.

This Goo Goo Dolls rock ballad, with a memorable melody and emotional lyrics, became a massive hit. Its inclusion in the 'City of Angels' film soundtrack catapulted it to fame, making it one of the decade's most recognizable rock ballads.