25 Iconic 1990s Music Videos You Should Know by Heart
Hey there, fellow 90s kid! Remember when music videos were a big deal? If you spent your teenage years glued to MTV or VH1, this one’s for you. Let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and see if you can recognize these iconic music videos from just a single screenshot. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
1. Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
This video kicked off the grunge era with its high school gym setting and rebellious vibes. Who could forget Kurt Cobain and that legendary cheerleader routine?
2. Britney Spears – “…Baby One More Time”
Britney’s debut was unforgettable, thanks to her iconic schoolgirl outfit and those catchy dance moves. This video is pure 90s pop perfection.
3. TLC – “Waterfalls”
With its powerful message and stunning visuals, TLC’s “Waterfalls” became an anthem of the decade. Those CGI water effects were groundbreaking back then!
4. Backstreet Boys – “I Want It That Way”
Set at an airport, this boy band classic had us all singing along. The harmonies, the white outfits—it’s a 90s staple.
5. Alanis Morissette – “You Oughta Know”
Alanis brought raw emotion and angst to the screen with this hit. Her intense expressions and that unforgettable voice still resonate today.
6. Spice Girls – “Wannabe”
If you wanna be my lover, you gotta remember this energetic video! The Spice Girls took over the world with their fun, girl-power vibe.
7. R.E.M. – “Losing My Religion”
Michael Stipe’s haunting performance and the video’s surreal imagery made this one a standout in the early 90s alternative scene.
8. Destiny’s Child – “Say My Name”
With its colorful rooms and smooth choreography, Destiny’s Child turned heads and solidified their place in pop history.
9. Madonna – “Vogue”
Strike a pose! Madonna’s black-and-white masterpiece celebrated fashion and dance in a way only she could.
10. Beastie Boys – “Sabotage”
This video was a playful homage to 70s cop shows, complete with mustaches and action-packed scenes. The Beastie Boys nailed it!
11. Lauryn Hill – “Doo Wop (That Thing)”
Lauryn took us back to the 60s with split-screen visuals and soulful vibes. Her talent shone through every frame.
12. Radiohead – “Creep”
This moody video captured the alienation and angst of a generation, with Thom Yorke’s haunting voice leading the charge.
13. No Doubt – “Don’t Speak”
Gwen Stefani’s emotional performance and the band’s dramatic storytelling made this one a heartbreaking classic.
14. Will Smith – “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It”
Bright colors, infectious beats, and Will Smith’s charisma made this video a feel-good favorite. Na-na-na-na-na-na-na!
15. Pearl Jam – “Jeremy”
This intense video told a powerful story that left a lasting impact. Eddie Vedder’s voice and the video’s raw emotion are unforgettable.
16. Celine Dion – “My Heart Will Go On”
With clips from Titanic and Celine’s soaring vocals, this video became synonymous with epic romance and heartbreak.
17. Missy Elliott – “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)”
Missy’s creativity and style were on full display in this futuristic, funky video. Her innovative visuals changed the game.
18. Ricky Martin – “Livin’ la Vida Loca”
Ricky’s high-energy performance and the video’s vibrant scenes brought Latin pop to the forefront in a big way.
19. Hanson – “MMMBop”
The Hanson brothers’ catchy tune and carefree spirit made this video a joyful hit that everyone loved to sing along to.
20. Janet Jackson – “Together Again”
Janet’s upbeat tribute featured stunning landscapes and heartfelt moments, reminding us of the power of love and memory.
21. Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Californication”
With its video game-inspired visuals, this video showcased the band’s creativity and love for all things Californian.
22. Mariah Carey – “Fantasy”
Mariah’s rollercoaster adventure and sweet vocals made this video a fun, feel-good classic that we still adore.
23. Puff Daddy – “I’ll Be Missing You”
This heartfelt tribute to The Notorious B.I.G. featured a powerful chorus and touching visuals that resonated with many.
24. Green Day – “Basket Case”
Billy Joe Armstrong’s punk energy and the video’s quirky setting made “Basket Case” a defining moment for 90s punk rock.
25. Christina Aguilera – “Genie in a Bottle”
Christina’s breakout hit had us all singing along as she danced on the beach, marking the start of her incredible career.
There you have it! These 25 music videos defined an era and left a mark on our hearts. How many did you recognize? Keep rocking those 90s vibes!
