Peaking at no. 3 on the US and UK charts, the soulful 'The River of Dreams' became Billy Joel's best-charting single of the '90s.
The year of 1993 was incredible for music, with countless hits from various genres dominating the charts. From grunge to alternative rock, and pop to R&B, the music scene was thriving with some of the greatest artists of all time releasing unforgettable tracks. Now, 30 years later, these tunes live on, making us feel nostalgic, and even a little old!
Click through the following gallery to discover the songs you won't believe are already 30 years old.
The second single from the band's debut album, 'Blind Melon,' the video for 'No Rain' became an iconic image of the '90s. This was all thanks to 10-year-old Heather DeLoach, who danced around in a bee costume.
It's hard to fathom this song being 30. The video for this power ballad introduced us to Alicia Silverstone, who appeared in three of the band's music videos around the time.
This '93 hip-hop tune provided the epic line: "Insane in the membrane? Insane in the brain!"
'Mr. Jones' by Counting Crows is a melodic rock track that touches on themes of identity and alienation, just in line with the youth of the time.
'Loser' is a classic alternative rock song that features a blend of hip-hop, folk, and rock elements. With a slacker vibe, it perfectly captures the angst and apathy of the early '90s youth.
Part of the soundtrack of 'Philadelphia' (1993), starring Tom Hanks, this song went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song, plus four Grammy Awards!
Kurt Cobain dedicated this song to wife Courtney Love and their daughter, Frances Bean Cobain. Sadly, four months after its release, Cobain was gone. The song, however, lives on.
Those who hadn’t heard of Snoop from Dr. Dre’s 1992 album 'The Chronic' certainly came to know him when he dropped this funky solo debut.
This dreamy, ethereal track by Björk has become a fan favorite thanks to its haunting melodies and evocative imagery.
When Ice Cube released this '93 hit, it showed that even the most hardcore gangsta rappers could look on the bright side of life.
This sultry and seductive R&B jam was one of the longest-reigning hits of 1993, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks.
Yes, this high-energy rock anthem came out 30 years ago! With its catchy chorus, we still can't get enough.
Regarded as one of Mariah Carey's signature ballads, 'Hero' became a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever struggled with self-doubt or adversity.
The international hit, by Spanish duo Los Del Río, inspired a dance craze that lives on 30 years later.
It doesn't seem that long ago since Linda Perry, with her big hat and steampunk goggles, wailed "Hey yeah yeah eh-eh!"
This Meat Loaf power ballad was a commercial success, reaching no. 1 in 28 countries. The song also earned him a Grammy Award for Best Rock Vocal Performance, Solo.
Radiohead's 'Creep' called out to the self-loathers and outcasts. And while they first seemed like a one-hit wonder, they quickly became one of the most acclaimed and innovative bands of their generation.
Originally recorded in 1991, 'Soul to Squeeze' was only released two years later as a single, becoming an instant success for these rock giants.
One of the group's more successful singles, 'Shoop' became an instant hit and has since become a beloved hip-hop classic.
One of the defining songs of the '90s, 'Today' is a moody alternative rock song that touches on themes of depression and alienation. However, its chorus sends a message of hope and resilience.
Released in June 1993, this power ballad became a worldwide success, reaching no. 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
The debut single by '90s rap duo Tag Team, 'Whoomp (There It Is)' reached no. 1 on the Billboard Hot R&B chart and no. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart 30 years ago.
Released 30 years ago, this catchy pop-rock song became a beloved anthem for anyone who wants to let loose and have a good time.
This grunge hit became the band's first single to top the Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart.
An uplifting hip-hop anthem that showcased the rapper's social consciousness, 'Keep Ya Head Up' continues to inspire listeners today.
With its catchy hooks and upbeat lyrics, 'The Sign' is a total '90s jam, mixing techno-reggae and Europop.
A Britpop anthem, 'For Tomorrow' embodies the optimism and disillusionment of the '90s. Its social commentary resonated with a generation that was coming of age in a rapidly changing world.
Sources: (Rolling Stone) (Singersroom)
See also: Iconic movies turning 30 in 2023
A soulful ballad that showcases Toni Braxton's powerful and emotive voice, 'Breathe Again' expresses the heartache of a failed relationship and the longing for a second chance. The song peaked at no. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and no. 4 on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles.
Songs you won't believe are turning 30 in 2023
Let's take a trip down memory lane!
MUSIC Tunes
The year of 1993 was incredible for music, with countless hits from various genres dominating the charts. From grunge to alternative rock, and pop to R&B, the music scene was thriving with some of the greatest artists of all time releasing unforgettable tracks. Now, 30 years later, these tunes live on, making us feel nostalgic, and even a little old!
Click through the following gallery to discover the songs you won't believe are already 30 years old.