10 Best 90s Pop Albums for the Nostalgic Millennial

The 90s was a “you had to be there” era that saw the explosion of pop music.

The decade left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. And for millennials, the nostalgia of this era is often accompanied by the infectious beats and catchy lyrics of the pop albums that defined their youth.

In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and revisit the 10 best 90s pop albums. Prepare to feel hella nostalgic, fellow millennials!

10. ‘The Sign’ by Ace of Base (1993)

Ace of Base’s The Sign blended pop, dance, and reggae influences to create an album filled with infectious melodies. The title track, “The Sign,” became a chart-topping hit and a quintessential anthem of the 90s.

Ace of Base’s incredible 1993 album saw a second life via the 2012 film, Pitch Perfect. It might have been the butt of a joke in the movie but our love for it is very much serious.

9. ‘…Baby One More Time’ by Britney Spears (1999)

Britney Spears’ debut album, …Baby One More Time, catapulted her to global superstardom.

The title track, along with hits like “Sometimes” and “Crazy,” showcased Spears’ pop sensibility and undeniable charisma, making her an icon of the 90s. Also, her performance at the 1999 MTV Video Music Awards is one of the last great moments of the decade.

8. ‘Spice’ by Spice Girls (1996)

Spice by the Spice Girls needs no introduction.

The British girl group took the world by storm with their debut album, featuring hits like “Wannabe” and “Say You’ll Be There.” Spice became a cultural phenomenon, empowering a generation of young women.

And the 1997 film Spice World? It’s one of the best (and most fun) movies of the era.

7. ‘Daydream’ by Mariah Carey (1995)

Mariah Carey’s Daydream showcased her vocal prowess and versatility.

The album, known for the iconic “Fantasy” and the heartfelt “One Sweet Day” featuring Boyz II Men, demonstrated Carey’s ability to blend pop, R&B, and hip-hop seamlessly.

6. ‘NSYNC’ by NSYNC (1997)

*NSYNC burst onto the scene with their self-titled debut album, featuring the infectious “Tearin’ Up My Heart” and “I Want You Back.” The group’s harmonies and synchronized dance moves captivated audiences, making them a staple in 90s pop culture.

5. ‘Millennium’ by Backstreet Boys (1999)

“Millennium” further solidified the Backstreet Boys’ dominance in the pop music scene. The album, featuring hits like “I Want It That Way” and “Larger Than Life,” became a soundtrack for many millennials’ coming-of-age moments.

4. ‘Backstreet Boys’ by Backstreet Boys (1996)

The self-titled debut album from the Backstreet Boys marked the beginning of a boy band phenomenon.

With infectious harmonies and catchy tunes like “Quit Playing Games (With My Heart),” the album laid the foundation for the boy band craze of the late 90s.

3. ‘Falling Into You’ by Celine Dion (1996)

Celine Dion’s Falling Into You showcased the Canadian diva’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth.

The album featured timeless ballads like “Because You Loved Me” and “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now,” solidifying Dion’s status as a pop powerhouse.

2. ‘Come On Over’ by Shania Twain (1997)

Shania Twain’s Come On Over is a crossover masterpiece that seamlessly blended country and pop.

With chart-toppers like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and “You’re Still the One,” Twain’s energetic and empowering tunes became anthems for millennials embracing their individuality.

1. ‘Jagged Little Pill’ by Alanis Morissette (1995)

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill is an iconic album that captured the angst and raw emotions of the 90s.

With hits like “You Oughta Know” and “Ironic,” Morissette’s powerful vocals and introspective lyrics resonated with a generation navigating the complexities of love and life.

If you’re feeling extra nostalgic, throw on the 2021 documentary, Jagged. It showcases exactly why this album is one of the greatest projects ever released, regardless of decade.