20 of the Greatest Songs From 1991

1991 was a great year for music, with many classic songs being released. From hip-hop to classic rock and everything in between, the Billboard charts were filled with memorable hits. Let’s take a look at 20 of the greatest songs released that year!

1. “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” by Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams captured the hearts of fans with his 1991 power ballad, “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You.” The song was featured in the movie Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and became a huge success.

It topped the charts in over 20 countries, including the US, where it stayed at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks.

2. “Rush, Rush” by Paula Abdul

“Rush, Rush” is a ballad by American singer Paula Abdul. It speaks of a woman who is finally free to pursue her own desires after a broken relationship.

The song was released as the second single from her second album, Spellbound, and became Abdul’s first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

3. “Here We Go (Let’s Rock & Roll)” by C+C Music Factory

C+C Music Factory’s hit “Here We Go (Let’s Rock & Roll)” was an instant dancefloor classic. The song took the world by storm, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a party staple for years to come. This old-time party song will make you want to get up and dance! 

4. “Beauty And The Beast” by Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson

The beautiful duet by Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson was the main theme song of Disney’s 1991 animated film, Beauty and the Beast. The song became an instant classic and earned both singers numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song as well as a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

The song was a huge success, reaching number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and received Gold certification in the US alone.

5. “Black or White” by Michael Jackson

“Black or White” was the first single off Michael Jackson’s 1991 album Dangerous. The song speaks of racial harmony and equality and became one of Jackson’s biggest hits ever.

It topped the charts in more than 20 countries and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for seven weeks. It also became the fastest song to ever top the charts, and was even awarded the first Billboard No. 1 single.

6. “Life Is A Highway” by Tom Cochrane

Canadian singer Tom Cochrane released “Life Is A Highway” in 1991, and it quickly became a top hit. The song, from his album Mad Mad World, is about the joys of life’s journey.

It peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it Cochrane’s most successful single ever in the US.

7. “I Wanna Sex You Up” by Color Me Badd

Color Me Badd’s “I Wanna Sex You Up” is a classic R&B ballad from their debut album C.M.B. The song features smooth harmonies and romantic lyrics that made it an instant hit when it was released in 1991.

It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned the group its first 2x platinum single certification.

8. “I Adore Mi Amor” by Color Me Badd

Color Me Badd continued their success with this 1991 R&B hit, “I Adore Mi Amor.” With a strong message of adoration and love, the song became a fan favorite and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for two weeks.

9. “Finally” by CeCe Peniston

CeCe Peniston’s song “Finally” was released in early 1991 and quickly rose to the top of the dance charts. The track is a classic club anthem with its driving beat, memorable hook, and positive lyrics about love and self-esteem.

It reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won numerous awards, including Best New Artist in the Dance Category and Best Director in the Dance Category at the Billboard Music Video Awards.

10. “I’m Too Sexy” by Right Said Fred

Right Said Fred’s “I’m Too Sexy” is a humorous song about self-confidence and vanity. The track became an international hit when it was released in 1991, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping the charts in seven countries.

It earned Right Said Fred their first platinum single certification in the US and has since become an iconic pop classic.

11. “Set Adrift on Memory Bliss” by P.M. Dawn

P.M. Dawn’s “Set Adrift on Memory Bliss” was an unexpected hit when it was released in 1991. The song is a smooth blend of hip-hop and R&B with a melodic sample of Spandau Ballet’s 1983 hit “True.”

It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it P.M. Dawn’s only top single in the US earned them a gold single certification.

12. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana

Nirvana’s breakout hit “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is one of the greatest songs from 1991. Released in September 1991, it quickly became a chart-topping anthem with its iconic guitar riffs and lyrics about youth and rebellion.

The track reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, earned Nirvana an induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame, and became one of the most influential songs in music history.

13. “More Than Words” by Extreme

Extreme’s “More Than Words” was a huge hit when it was released in 1991. The heartfelt ballad features the band’s signature guitar harmonies and romantic lyrics about love and commitment.

It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned Extreme their first gold certification. This classic love song has been covered by numerous artists over the last three decades.

14. “Baby, Baby” by Amy Grant

Amy Grant’s “Baby, Baby” is a heartwarming ode to motherhood that was released in 1991. It became an international hit and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it Grant’s first single from the album to top the charts. The track has since earned numerous nominations, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year.

15. “Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince

DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince’s “Summertime” is a classic summer anthem that was released in 1991. Featuring a catchy beat and lighthearted lyrics about the joys of summer, the song quickly became a success.

It reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won a Grammy for “Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.”

16. “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Michael Bolton

Michael Bolton’s soulful rendition of “When a Man Loves a Woman” was an instant classic when it was released in 1991.

Drawing on the 1966 hit by Percy Sledge, Bolton’s version features a beautiful piano intro and powerful vocals. It earned him a Grammy Award and peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

17. “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M.

R.E.M.’s “Losing My Religion” was the first single from their 1991 album Out of Time and became an instant hit. The track features a unique combination of folk and rock music, with lyrics that explore religious doubt and spiritual longing.

It reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned the band two Grammys: one for “Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group” and another for “Best Short Form Music Video.”

18. “Emotions” by Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey’s 1991 single “Emotions” is an infectious celebration of joyous feelings. The track features a jazzy melody and Carey’s iconic vocal runs, making it an instant hit.

It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned Carey a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

19. “Motownphilly” by Boyz II Men

Boyz II Men’s “Motownphilly,” a tribute to the city of Philadelphia and its music scene, Featuring an upbeat beat, memorable ad-libs, and Boyz II Men’s signature harmonies, it quickly became a chart-topper when it was released in 1991. The track reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

20. “I Love Your Smile” by Shanice

Shanice’s “I Love Your Smile” is an uplifting pop-R&B song that celebrates the joys of love. It features Shanice’s soulful vocals, a funky beat, and an infectious melody.

It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. She also earned a Grammy nomination for “Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.”

Conclusion

These are just a few of the great songs that were released in 1991. These tracks have become classics for a reason—they’re all incredibly catchy and well-crafted.

Whether you’re looking for something to dance to or something to make you feel nostalgic, these songs will definitely do the trick.

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