The best electronic dance music of the 90s
The 90s was a decade of great change and innovation in the music industry, particularly in the electronic dance genre. Many of the songs from this era have stood the test of time and continue to be played at clubs and festivals to this day. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best electronic dance songs of the 90s and what made them so iconic.
Techno
The 1990s was the era of techno, and many of the songs that were released during this time have become timeless classics. This style of music was characterized by its fast-paced beats and repetitive nature. Some of the best techno songs of the 90s include:
"Strings of Life" by Derrick May: This song was released in 1987 but gained popularity in the 90s. The track is characterized by its uplifting and melodic strings, as well as its driving beat. The song's string melodies and memorable rhythm, have made it a staple in the techno genre. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timelessness of its sound.
House
House music was also one of the most popular electronic dance genres in the 90s. This style of music was characterized by its soulful vocals and catchy beats. Some of the best house songs of the 90s include:
"Someday" by CeCe Rogers. This song was released in 1989 and became one of the most iconic house songs of the 90s. The track was a major hit on the US dance charts and it's considered a classic of the genre. "Someday" is an emotional and uplifting track, with its powerful vocals, and memorable melodies, it's a perfect example of Rogers' style of uplifting house music.
"What Is Love" by Haddaway. This song was released in 1993 and became one of the biggest hits of the decade. The track was a major hit worldwide, reaching the top 10 in many countries, and is still considered one of the most popular songs of the genre. The song's catchy chorus, emotive lyrics, and upbeat tempo helped it to become a staple of 90s pop culture, appearing in numerous films and TV shows.
"Show Me Love" by Robin S: This song was released in 1990. In 1992, Swedish house music production duo StoneBridge and Nick Nice gave the song a spin by remixing it. From its inception, "Show Me Love" became one of the most iconic house anthems in the United Kingdom. It was also Robin S' most successful hit, helping to bring the genre of house music to a more mainstream audience.
Trance
The 90s also saw the emergence of trance music, which is characterized by its uplifting melodies and driving beats. Some of the best trance songs of the 90s include:
"Age of Love" by Age of Love. One of the most iconic trance songs of the 90s. With its catchy synth melody, emotive lyrics, and upbeat tempo, it became a staple of 90s techno and trance scene. It reached #1 on the Belgian dance charts and was certified Gold in several countries.
"Go" by Moby: This song was released in 1991 and was one of the first trance tracks to gain mainstream success. The track reached the top ten of the charts in both the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. It became successful due to its widespread use in film, television, and advertising. The song's upbeat, energetic sound and catchy melody made it a popular choice for soundtracks and commercials. Additionally, the song was released at the right time, when electronic dance music was starting to gain mainstream popularity.
"Children" by Robert Miles: This song was released in 1996 and was a huge hit for Robert Miles. The emotional and uplifting nature of the song's melody and lyrics would make it one of the classics in the genre. The song's message of hope and innocence resonated with listeners and helped to make it a timeless classic. Additionally, the song's production was top-notch, featuring a unique blend of trance, and ambient and classical music elements that created a unique and memorable sound.
Drum and Bass
Drum and Bass also emerged as a popular genre in the 90s. This style of music was characterized by its fast-paced beats, complex rhythms, and heavy basslines. Some of the best drum and bass songs of the 90s include:
"Born Slippy" by Underworld. This song was released in 1995 and became a big hit. The song became successful due to its use in the film "Trainspotting," which helped popularize the song and the band in the mid-1990s. Additionally, the song's lyrics resonated with many listeners, as it deals with themes of addiction and self-destructive behavior.
"Timeless" by Goldie. This timeless song was released in 1995. The song's melody and Charlemagne's soulful vocals made it stand out and helped it to cross over to mainstream audiences. The success of "Timeless" helped to popularize DnB music and cemented Goldie's place as a key figure in the genre.
"Horizons" by LTJ Bukem: The song, released in 1991, is considered a classic, with its atmospheric and melodic sound that was different from the more aggressive and fast-paced sound that was typical of DnB at the time. "Horizons" was one of the early examples of the sub-genre known as "intelligent drum and bass" or "ambient drum and bass", characterized by its use of atmospheric sounds and melodic elements, and less focus on breakbeats.
The 90s was a decade of great change and innovation in the electronic dance music genre. It was a time when new sub-genres were born, old ones were revitalized and experimentation was encouraged. From techno to trance, house to drum and bass, the 90s gave us some of the most iconic and memorable electronic dance songs in history. These songs not only defined an era but also helped shape the future of electronic dance music.
We've just taken you 20 years into the past with this article, now let's bring you back to the here and now with a list of the most electrifying songs of 2023, guaranteed to keep you on your feet and dancing all day long. Check out our list of the 'best songs to dance to in 2023' now!
