The '90s were an era where boy bands ruled the airwaves, and their catchy tunes and infectious harmonies became the soundtrack of our childhoods and teen years. From the sweet ballads that made us swoon to the energetic pop anthems we couldn’t resist dancing to, boy bands had a way of worming their way into our hearts and playlists.
But let’s be honest. Many of those old boy band songs still sneak their way into our playlists when we need a dose of nostalgia. Whether it’s an impromptu sing-along in the car or a quick trip down memory lane, these tracks continue to hold a special place in our hearts. So, let's take a nostalgic trip back to the '90s and revisit some of these old boy band songs we secretly sing along to when no one’s watching!
"I Want It That Way" by Backstreet Boys
Many years might have passed since the release of this song, but you couldn't escape it if you tried because it's still being used in commercials. "I Want It That Way" is one of Backstreet Boys' most iconic tracks. It was released in April 1999 and is the lead single from their third studio album, Millennium. The pop ballad reflects on a romantic relationship that is complicated by emotional or physical distance.
Not only was this song a massive commercial success, but it was also nominated for three Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year. It was a standout track in the late '90s boy band era, and it still remains a fan favorite to this day.
"On Bended Knee" by Boyz II Men
Boys II Men, only one of the best vocal harmony groups ever, knew they had a hit on their hands with "On Bended Knee." It's a heartfelt R&B ballad written and produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. The song was released in November 1994 as a single from their second album II, and tells the story of a man who expresses deep regret following a breakup and earnestly begs for forgiveness.
It's another one of the Grammy Award-winning group's most popular songs, and it helped cement their place as one of the leading R&B groups of the '90s.
"Back for Good" by Take That
When you think of some of the best boy bands of the '90s, you're probably going to think of Backstreet Boys and NSYNC right away. While this is true, Take That was another boy band of this time period that had some hits. One of their songs I can't help but listen to on repeat is "Back for Good."
It's a powerful pop ballad from their third studio album, Nobody Else (1995). The song expresses a person's profound desire to rekindle a past relationship, admitting to previous mistakes and seeking a second chance.
"I Do (Cherish You)" by 98 Degrees
While the original song was already a good track, 98 Degrees took it and put a new spin on it when they released it as the fourth and final single on their second album, 98 Degrees and Rising in 1999. It's a romantic ballad with the lyrics expressing a sincere promise from the narrator to their significant other, highlighting how deeply they cherish and value their partner.
"Tearin' Up My Heart" by NSYNC
Let's be honest. It wouldn't be right if I didn't include a song from NSYNC on this list. Like Backstreet Boys, they were another massively successful boy band from the '90s whose music remains popular to this day. One of their greatest hits, "Tearin' Up My Heart," is a track that I find myself going back to listen to from time to time.
Known for its catchy chorus and danceable beat, "Tearin' Up My Heart" was released in 1997 as the second single from NSYNC's self-titled debut studio album, 'NSYNC. It's a pop song that tells about the emotional pain and confusion that comes from a complicated romantic relationship.