1. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” – The Proclaimers
Although this song became somewhat of a party anthem, it’s easy to forget just how much heart is packed into this cheerful, marching tune. The Proclaimers’ infectious energy and determination to express loyalty and love through their catchy anthem have a unique charm. It’s full of grit and passion, and its upbeat rhythm invites listeners to sing along, making it an unforgettable track from the ’80s. Despite its popularity, it remains underrated as a truly heartfelt expression of commitment, cleverly disguised as a lively, foot-stomping jam.
2. “Don’t Dream It’s Over” – Crowded House
This track from Crowded House has a timeless, dreamy quality that still resonates with listeners today. It was released in 1986, and despite its mellow vibe, it’s surprisingly impactful. The song’s introspective lyrics and simple yet beautiful arrangement make it stand out from many of the era’s other pop hits. Yet, it often gets overlooked compared to its more famous contemporaries. If you’ve never given it a full listen, it’s time to tune in—you might find yourself humming the chorus long after the song ends.
3. “If You Could Only See” – Tonic
Released in 1996, this grunge-influenced rock track deserves far more recognition than it gets. Tonic’s “If You Could Only See” blends a bit of angst with raw emotion, striking a perfect balance between grunge and mainstream rock. The reflective lyrics about self-awareness and emotional struggle, combined with the power chords, create a sound that is powerful yet accessible. While it may not come up in conversations about rock anthems, it’s definitely a track that deserves more time in the spotlight.
4. “Running Up That Hill” – Kate Bush
Though “Running Up That Hill” gained more attention after being featured in Stranger Things, it was actually a brilliant pop piece long before that. Kate Bush’s unique voice, layered over a haunting and atmospheric production, creates a song that’s both complex and simple at the same time. The lyrics speak to the desire to change the rules of life and find empathy in relationships. It’s a song that transcends time and genre, and its re-emergence only proves how ahead of its time it was. If you haven’t revisited it recently, now’s the time.
5. “Black” – Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam’s “Black” is one of the band’s most emotionally charged tracks, yet it often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves compared to some of their more famous hits. The rawness in Eddie Vedder’s voice, paired with the heart-wrenching lyrics about love and loss, makes it a powerful ballad that sticks with you. It’s not your typical radio-friendly single, but its emotional depth is undeniable. It’s a song that, with each listen, reveals new layers of complexity and is worth revisiting for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of love slipping away.
6. “The Way” – Fastball
Released in 1998, this alternative rock song might have had its moment on the charts but quickly faded from popular memory. “The Way” is a perfect blend of storytelling and melody, with its catchy rhythm and cryptic lyrics that hint at escape and freedom. The upbeat music belies the darker story behind it—about a couple disappearing and leaving their responsibilities behind. This contrast between the upbeat melody and the somewhat somber tale makes it a hidden gem in the ’90s alternative scene.
7. “She Don’t Use Jelly” – The Flaming Lips
“The Flaming Lips’ “She Don’t Use Jelly” is one of those quirky songs that seem to stick in your mind long after you hear it. The oddball lyrics, paired with a bizarre but addictive rhythm, might make you think of it as a throwaway track, but there’s an underlying charm that sets it apart. It’s a reflection of the ‘90s alternative scene’s playful weirdness, and there’s a certain joy in its offbeat nature. The song’s carefree vibe and fun lyrics make it a track that’s easy to return to for a bit of lighthearted fun.
8. “How’s It Going to Be” – Third Eye Blind
This emotional rock anthem is a quintessential track from the late ’90s, yet it’s often overshadowed by the band’s bigger hits like “Semi-Charmed Life.” “How’s It Going to Be” is a heartfelt reflection on the uncertainty that comes with love and relationships, expressed in a way that is both relatable and poignant. The band’s ability to blend emotional vulnerability with infectious hooks makes this song a standout. Its introspective lyrics about endings and changes resonate with anyone who’s experienced heartbreak or a significant life transition.
9. “All I Want” – Toad the Wet Sprocket
This song from Toad the Wet Sprocket often gets lost in the shuffle of ’90s alternative rock, but it has a quiet charm that makes it unforgettable. With its soothing rhythm and introspective lyrics, “All I Want” captures the yearning for simplicity and peace. The gentle guitar and mellow vocals give the track an almost ethereal quality, making it the perfect song to get lost in when you’re looking for something calm and introspective. Despite its widespread popularity during its time, it’s a song that still feels underrated today.
10. “Bizarre Love Triangle” – New Order
While it’s a song that’s become somewhat iconic in the world of ’80s synthpop, it’s still surprising how many people forget just how fantastic “Bizarre Love Triangle” is. New Order’s ability to blend upbeat, danceable rhythms with lyrics about the complications of love and relationships was revolutionary. The song feels timeless, thanks to its infectious melody and emotional depth, and it remains one of the band’s finest moments. Even though it may not dominate the charts like it once did, its influence on the genre is undeniable.
11. “Torn” – Natalie Imbruglia
While “Torn” was a huge hit in the late ’90s, it’s easy to forget how raw and powerful Natalie Imbruglia’s debut single was. The song’s melancholy tone and aching lyrics about disillusionment resonate deeply with listeners who’ve experienced a broken heart. Despite its pop sensibility, “Torn” is a song that conveys deep emotional weight, and Imbruglia’s performance is beautifully understated. It may have been overshadowed by other hits, but it remains one of the most sincere pop-rock tracks of its era.
12. “Fade Into You” – Mazzy Star
This dreamy, atmospheric track from Mazzy Star may not have received as much mainstream attention as it deserved, but its allure is undeniable. “Fade Into You” carries a slow, hypnotic quality, with Hope Sandoval’s haunting vocals lulling listeners into a trance. The song’s themes of longing and connection are universal, yet the way it’s expressed is uniquely tender. Despite its understated nature, “Fade Into You” is a track that’s deeply emotional and often strikes a chord with anyone seeking a moment of calm reflection.
13. “Runaway Train” – Soul Asylum
Soul Asylum’s “Runaway Train” is a grunge-era anthem that captures the feeling of being lost, yet somehow, it doesn’t get the praise it deserves. The song’s darker themes of isolation and searching for hope resonate deeply, and the band’s ability to balance angst with melody made it a hit. With its soaring guitar riffs and plaintive lyrics, “Runaway Train” has a raw honesty that speaks to anyone who’s ever felt disconnected. The track might not get as much airtime these days, but its emotional punch is timeless.