25 Best Songs From 1997
Contents
14. “Don’t Let Go (Love)” by En Vogue
Song year: 1997
En Vogue gave the music world some of the hottest and most heartfelt R&B hits of the 1990s with their powerful vocal abilities.
This dramatic love ballad entices a love interest to stay close and begs the question, “can we see where this thing can go?”
It’s a love song with an edge, and En Vogue knocks it out of the park with its incredible talent.
15. “Bitch” by Meredith Brooks
Song year: 1997
Though some audiences may turn and run when they see the song title, this is one hit you can’t ignore.
Meredith Brooks sings about the frustration she experiences in her life and all the things that make her who she is. She thanks the man she loves for loving her despite everything she knows she can be.
16. “Can’t Nobody Hold Me Down” by Puff Daddy feat. Mase
Song year: 1997
Puff Daddy’s debut single set the stage for a successful music career.
The rap song became famous for its downtempo beat and heavy lyrics. The melody also featured several samples from well-known hits and artists in music.
The song proved to be a generous and smart move as an introduction to a solo rap career for Puff Daddy.
17. “Spice Up Your Life” by Spice Girls
Song year: 1997
Regardless of where you lived, it was nearly impossible in 1997 not to have heard at least one song by this iconic girl group from the United Kingdom.
Spice Girls took the pop music industry by storm in the late 1990s. Their upbeat party anthems inspired people to dance for decades to come. This particular hit spun their name to make their listeners’ lives more fun.
18. “Semi-Charmed Life” by Third Eye Blind
Song year: 1997
This song easily wins a spot on the list of the best songs from 1997 with one of the most easily recognized hooks.
Perhaps nobody got past that part, but that’s okay. The genius songwriting and perfect guitar riffs solidify this hit as a classic that listeners love to revisit.
Third Eye Blind may not have continued making music, but they struck gold with this.
19. “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day
Song year: 1997
The punk rock band Green Day gave the music industry several deep cuts along with their chart-topping hits through the 1990s and well into the 2000s.
This slow-tempo, sad rock song mulls over the empty feelings that linger after a difficult and heartbreaking decision has been made.
Listeners have used this song for multiple reasons, but it speaks to the fantastic job Green Day did with this song.
20. “Walkin’ on the Sun” by Smash Mouth
Song year: 1997
In the 1990s, Smash Mouth was the band you could count on to deliver banging hits that everyone loved.
This song was no exception. The band delivers a call to action, inspiring listeners to pay attention to things happening around them rather than taking the easy road.
The song is catchy and reminds us why we loved smash hits from Smash Mouth.
21. “You Should Be Mine (Don’t Waste Your Time)” by Brian McKnight feat. Mase
Song year: 1997
Brian McKnight always had a way with his words and voice in the 1990s. This funky R&B song is proof of that.
McKnight notices how a girl he likes gets treated by her boyfriend and steps in to let her know that with him, all will be as it should.
The slick lyrics and funky beat demand repeat listens.
22. “Men in Black” by Will Smith
Song year: 1997
Though most people primarily recognize Will Smith for his acting talents, some will remember when he took some shots in the music industry.
Smith rapped the movie theme for his blockbuster hit of the same name, featuring samples of well-known music from previous decades and an infectious beat.
The result is an infectious beat and song that remains iconic today.
23. “Angels” by Robbie Williams
Song year: 1997
A soft-spoken, heartfelt ballad of hope joins our list of the best songs from 1997.
Robbie Williams gives a touching addition to his music catalog by singing about how he finds comfort. Williams speaks about how the angels above help him manage his pain through dark times.
The somber message of the song is a reminder that there is always hope.
24. “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)” by Backstreet Boys
Song year: 1997
Backstreet Boys are back, as this list now features two iconic hits from the famous boy band.
This track became a staple for the band as they advanced their career through the decades to come. Die-hard fans and those who occasionally listen can agree that this song makes people sing and jump.
It’s an easy song to love and dance to every time it plays.
25. “Together Again” by Janet Jackson
Song year: 1997
Janet Jackson came from a family of talent. She picked it up as well.
This iconic, upbeat song is one of those tunes that make the listener genuinely feel happy. The beat is quick, and Jackson’s light and easy vocals pair beautifully with the melody. The joy is in the lyrics and beat.
It’s easy to find yourself dancing to this instant hit from 1997.
Top Songs From 1997, Final Thoughts
1997 was a pretty solid year for the music industry. Many of the iconic hits we fell in love with that year still make our hearts sing today.
The styles of the 1990s influenced musical artists of the future, and many of the beats, hooks, and riffs we fell in love with getting sampled in new music regularly.
These top songs from 1997 helped shape the music industry.
