Alternative rock, often referred to as alternative music, is a genre of rock music that emerged in the 1980s and became highly popular in the 1990s. The “best alternative songs of the 90s” encompass a wide range of musical styles and themes, often characterized by their introspective lyrics, experimental sounds, and rejection of mainstream conventions.
The rise of alternative music in the 1990s was influenced by various factors, including the cultural shift towards independence and individuality, the emergence of college radio stations, and the popularity of MTV. Alternative bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden gained mainstream success and critical acclaim, leading to a surge in the popularity of the genre.