There are so many amazing top hits from 1994. It’s hard to believe these tracks came out 20 years ago! Many of the songs on this list are still getting radio time and are making appearances in movies and television to this day. Here are 11 top hits from 1994 that still get us excited!
One of the biggest top hits from 1994 was Ace of Base’s "The Sign." Although the song was released in 1993, it didn’t become a hit until 1994. Billboard Magazine named this song the biggest hit of 1994. "The Sign" spent 6 weeks at number one on the charts and has since been used in countless television shows and movies, including South Park and Pitch Perfect.
I must confess – I am a sucker for '90s R&B music and it doesn’t get much better than Boyz II Men. Boyz II Men released their now classic hit "I’ll Make Love to You" in 1994. The song was a huge success and topped the charts for 14 weeks (a new record at the time that the band would eventually beat). The song won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
"Hero" was released in 1993 but it was number one on the charts in 1994. The song became Mariah Carey’s eighth number one hit. The song is Mariah’s most inspirational song, so many consider this song to be her signature track. "Hero" is just as beautiful now as it was 20 years ago.
"Regulate" was released in the summer of 1994 and ultimately reached #2 on the Billboard Charts. This song is credited for introducing the world to both Warren G and Nate Dogg. The song was featured on the movie Above the Rim and the music video features scenes from the film (and even an appearance from Tupac Shakur).
"Baby, I Love Your Way" was originally recorded by Peter Frampton, but in 1994, it got a reggae twist when the band Big Mountain recorded the track. The song reached #6 in the US but made it to #2 in the UK. The Big Mountain version of the song was featured in the 1994 flick Reality Bites.
R. Kelly was the R&B king of the '90s and "Bump n’ Grind" is one of his biggest hits. The song was released from his first solo album, 12 Play. The song peaked at #1 on the charts in the United States and had success overseas as well. R. Kelly released three versions of the song, all of which received radio play.
Beck recorded the song "Loser" to serve as his second single. Although it was originally released independently, radio stations began playing the track so Beck re-released the song on a new album and the track was met with radio success. The song landed in the top 10 in spring 1994. The song is arguably Beck’s most well known song.
"Linger" was the first big hit for Irish rock band The Cranberries. The song peaked at #8 in the US but also had success in Ireland and the UK. Lead singer Dolores O’Riordan admitted this song was about her first kiss in the documentary ’99 Love Life & Rock ‘n’ Roll.
"I Swear" by All-4-One is now a classic love song played at school dances and weddings. However, in 1994 it was a number one hit in several countries. Although the All-4-One version is now the most popular, the song was originally a country song recorded by John Michael Montgomery. Even though his version is beautiful, there is something extra special about the All-4-One version.
"All I Wanna Do" was Sheryl Crow’s breakthrough hit and still remains one of her most successful songs today. The song peaked at #2 because it was unable to beat out "I’ll Make Love to You." The song won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
Madonna released "I’ll Remember" in March of 1994. The song was the theme for the movie With Honors. The track served as a new sound and image for the star. Many critics consider "I’ll Remember" to be one of Madonna’s best songs. The song received nominations at the Grammys and the Golden Globes.
Listening to all of these songs really takes me back. I love '90s music and these songs still hold up twenty years later. Can you think of any other hits from 1994? If so, share them with us in the comments section!