Believe it or not, the 90s sound is everywhere again and we’re calling it a comeback. Today’s iconic artists are blending throwback beats with modern flair, creating music that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Here are seven artists making 90s sounds cool all over again.
7. Wallows
Los Angeles-based trio Wallows has been at the forefront of the 90s indie rock revival. Comprised of Dylan Minnette, Braeden Lemasters, and Cole Preston, the band draws heavily from the lo-fi, guitar-driven sound of 90s indie rock bands like The Strokes and Pavement. Songs like “Are You Bored Yet?” and “Pictures of Girls” capture the spirit of 90s indie rock, with their relatable lyrics and laid-back grooves.
6. Beabadoobee
Filipino-British artist Beabadoobee has become a leading voice in the 90s grunge and indie rock revival. The singer first gained viral fame with her gentle, acoustic songs, but her sound has evolved to embrace the distorted guitars and angsty energy of 90s alternative rock. Her music is influenced by bands like The Smashing Pumpkins and Sonic Youth.
5. Doja Cat
Doja Cat effortlessly blends genres and eras to create a sound that’s uniquely her own. While she’s known for her futuristic persona, her music is often deeply rooted in the sounds of the past, particularly 90s R&B and hip-hop. Her hit song “Say So,” featuring groovy bassline and disco-infused production, has a 70s and 90s feel.
4. The 1975
British rock band The 1975 has a wide range of influences, but their music is often indebted to the sounds of the 80s and 90s. The band’s use of synths, basslines, and frontman Matty Healy’s soulful vocals often recalls the sound of 90s R&B and new jack swing. Songs like “If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know)” and “It’s Not Living (If It’s Not With You)” are examples of their ability to blend 80s and 90s influences with modern pop.
3. Billie Eilish
While Billie Eilish’s sound is often described as futuristic, it’s also rooted in the sounds of trip-hop and alternative rock of the 90s. Her music features the moody textures and breakbeats of trip-hop artists like Portishead and Massive Attack, while her whispery vocals recall the songwriting of 90s alternative artists like Fiona Apple.
2. Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa’s album Future Nostalgia was a global hit, a collection of dance-pop songs with sounds from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. While the album is often praised for its disco and 80s influences, it also has a strong 90s dance-pop vibe. The album’s use of synths, four-on-the-floor beats, and vocal hooks reminds us of the 90s dance-pop artists like Madonna and Cher.
1. Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo has taken the world by storm with her emotional songwriting and her embrace of 90s alternative rock and pop-punk. Her albums SOUR and GUTS are filled with angsty anthems, similar to the sound of 90s artists like Alanis Morissette and The Smashing Pumpkins. The track “good 4 u” is a showcase of her ability to blend pop melodies with the energy of 90s rock.