Ah, the ’90s—a decade where practically everything came with a soundtrack, from blockbuster hits to random TV shows (yes, I’m looking at you, music from Oz). While we all fondly remember iconic scores like those from Pulp Fiction, The Bodyguard, Clueless, and Romeo + Juliet, there are some hidden gems that have slipped through the cracks over time. Perhaps they were tucked away with your old Walkman, borrowed by a friend, or even traded in for the latest Strokes album. Let’s dive into some forgotten musical treasures from the ’90s!
1. Singles (1992)
The Source: Back in the day, Cameron Crowe’s films resonated with Gen-Xers, and Singles is a perfect example of that vibe. This grunge-infused romantic comedy came out the same year as Melrose Place, but felt like it belonged to an entirely different universe.
The Music: If you were still jamming to Wilson Phillips at 22, grunge might have been a bit of a surprise. But thanks to this soundtrack, I got a crash course with Pearl Jam, Chris Cornell, and Alice in Chains.
Standout Songs: Paul Westerberg’s “Dyslexic Heart” and “Waiting for Somebody,” along with Jimi Hendrix’s “May This Be Love.” (Okay, not super grungy, but I’m working on my cred here!)
Pairs With: Back then: Navigating first-job struggles and dreaming of a trip to Seattle. Now: Crunching retirement numbers and maybe planning a Portland getaway.
2. The Craft (1996)
The Source: A classic that shows girls embracing their witchy sides. It’s also high time for a Fairuza Balk comeback—how about a guest role on Orange Is the New Black?
The Music: This soundtrack is possibly the most quintessentially ’90s, featuring artists like Matthew Sweet, Jewel, Sponge, and Elastica.
Standout Songs: Notable covers include Heather Nova’s “I Have the Touch,” Love Spit Love’s “How Soon Is Now?” and Juliana Hatfield’s “Witches Song.”
Pairs With: Then: Candlelighting, devouring Weetzie Bat novels, and endless late-night chats. Now: Still lighting candles, re-reading Weetzie Bat, and of course, Instagram stalking.
3. Party of Five (1996)
The Source: This heartwarming drama about five orphaned siblings holds a special place in our hearts. It also introduced us to Jack from Lost and Gretchen Wieners—what a combo!
The Music: While the theme song “Closer to Free” by the BoDeans might be what you remember most, the rest of the alternative mix has stood the test of time.
Standout Song: Stevie Nicks’ cover of Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’” is basically your new midlife anthem.
Pairs With: Back then: Cleaning your apartment after a breakup, then shopping for chic organization items at Target. Now: Finally enjoying some uninterrupted Pinterest time.
4. Stealing Beauty (1996)
The Source: In this film, Liv Tyler embarks on a quest in Tuscany to find her father—and maybe lose her virginity. A bit of a mixed bag, don’t you think?
The Music: This soundtrack is like the ultimate mix CD you dreamed of creating, featuring unexpected yet seamless combinations like John Lee Hooker and Liz Phair.
Standout Song: “My Baby Just Cares for Me.” If you only discovered Nina Simone through this soundtrack, we can be shame buddies (but at least we came around, right?).
Pairs With: Then: Gaining the courage to share your creative work and selecting a wine that makes you look sophisticated. Now: Finally picking up that paintbrush again and sipping on your favorite wine without a care in the world.
5. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1999)
The Source: As members of the ’90s generation, we’re obligated to adore Buffy. This soundtrack predates the iconic “Once More With Feeling.”
The Music: As the decade wound down, this compilation continued the legacy of great soundtracks, featuring poppy alternative hits like Guided by Voices’ “Teenage FBI” and Bif Naked’s catchy “Lucky.”
Standout Song: The Buffy theme by Nerf Herder is a quintessential anthem of the era, akin to “Love Is All Around” for the decade’s coolest TV heroine.
Pairs With: Then: Hitting the gym or embarking on road trips with friends. Now: Opting for Tabata workouts at home or hitting the road with your tween daughter or niece.
These fantastic soundtracks might have faded from memory, but they deserve a spot back on your playlists. Revisit these musical gems and rediscover the magic of the ’90s!
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Summary: The ’90s were filled with unforgettable soundtracks, and while some have remained iconic, others have been forgotten. Rediscover five hidden gems like Singles, The Craft, Party of Five, Stealing Beauty, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer that encapsulate the spirit of the decade.