The ’90s: A March Playlist of Grunge, R&B & Pop
The 1990s delivered a mix of grunge, R&B, hip-hop, and pop that still resonates today. From anthems of empowerment to emotional ballads, these songs defined the sound of March in their respective years. Here’s a look at some of the biggest hits that topped the charts this month.
“Escapade” – Janet Jackson (1990)
Album: Rhythm Nation 1814
Release Date: January 8, 1990
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
Janet Jackson’s “Escapade” is a feel-good anthem that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of the early ’90s. With an upbeat groove and infectious melody, the song became one of her signature hits, further cementing the success of Rhythm Nation 1814.
Feeling nostalgic? Tune in to BOB FM and relive the ’90s—no rewinding required!
“Someday” – Mariah Carey (1991)
Album: Mariah Carey
Release Date: November 28, 1990
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
Mariah Carey’s third consecutive No. 1 single showcased her powerhouse vocals and playful confidence. “Someday” blended new jack swing production with her soaring range, proving she was a force to be reckoned with in pop and R&B. Watch the music video for “Someday” below:
Explore March’s biggest hits of the 70s and 80s
“Save the Best for Last” – Vanessa Williams (1992)
Album: The Comfort Zone
Release Date: January 14, 1992
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
This heartfelt ballad about unexpected love became Vanessa Williams’ biggest hit. With its lush orchestration and emotional delivery, “Save the Best for Last” dominated airwaves and became a staple of ’90s adult contemporary music.
“Informer” – Snow (1993)
Album: 12 Inches of Snow
Release Date: August 1992
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
With rapid-fire lyrics and reggae-inspired beats, “Informer” became an unlikely chart-topper. Canadian artist Snow delivered a dancehall-meets-hip-hop track that confused some listeners but ultimately became one of the decade’s most memorable hits.
“The Sign” – Ace of Base (1994)
Album: The Sign
Release Date: October 29, 1993
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
Ace of Base helped define ’90s Europop with “The Sign,” a song that dominated radio stations and MTV. Its upbeat yet melancholic tone made it an international sensation, and the track became one of the best-selling singles of the decade.
March to the beat of the ’90s! Tune in and rediscover the hits that ruled the charts.
“Take a Bow” – Madonna (1995)
Album: Bedtime Stories
Release Date: December 6, 1994
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 (for seven weeks)
Madonna took a softer, more introspective approach with “Take a Bow.” The ballad, co-written with Babyface, showcased a vulnerable side of the pop icon and became one of her longest-running No. 1 hits.
“One Sweet Day” – Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men (1996)
Album: Daydream
Release Date: November 14, 1995
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 (for 16 weeks, a record at the time)
This emotional collaboration between Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men was a tribute to lost loved ones. The song’s powerful harmonies and heartfelt lyrics made it one of the most successful singles of all time.
“Wannabe” – Spice Girls (1997)
Album: Spice
Release Date: July 8, 1996
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
With its catchy hooks and empowering message, “Wannabe” introduced the world to the Spice Girls and ignited the girl-power movement. The song’s infectious energy made it an instant pop culture phenomenon.
“My Heart Will Go On” – Celine Dion (1998)
Album: Let’s Talk About Love
Release Date: December 8, 1997
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Academy Award for Best Original Song
The love theme from Titanic became Celine Dion’s signature song and one of the biggest ballads of all time. Its emotional depth and cinematic connection made it an unforgettable classic.
Before you cry to My Heart Will Go On again, why not jam to the rest of the ’90s? Listen now!
“Believe” – Cher (1999)
Album: Believe
Release Date: October 19, 1998
Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording
With its futuristic use of Auto-Tune, “Believe” revolutionized pop music and brought Cher back to the top of the charts. The song’s message of resilience and moving on made it an enduring anthem.
Final Thoughts
March in the ’90s was filled with unforgettable hits, spanning pop, R&B, and dancehall. These songs not only defined their time but continue to influence music today. Whether you’re in the mood for a dance anthem or a heartfelt ballad, this playlist has something for everyone.
What’s your favorite March hit from the ’90s?
