These are the songs that defined my life. There are others, of course, but I felt the included were those important enough to share. Click on artist names for info and song names to have a listen for yourself…
Chris Cornell – “When I’m Down” (1999)
No one believed me when I told them the then recently Soundgarden-separated Chris Cornell’s solo album, Euphoria Morning, was an eclectic masterpiece of somber alt-rock. I’m sure they believe me even less after the crap he’s released since then (Audioslave aside).
The Wallflowers – “One Headlight” (1997)
My favorite band from 1997-2004ish. There’s a soulfulness to Hammond-filled, rustic Americana that I think anyone can appreciate.
Jewel – “You Were Meant For Me” (1996)
Sexiest song ever. If love were bottled into a song somehow, it would sound like this and come from Jewel’s mouth. I wasn’t a huge fan of some of the other songs on Pieces of You though. Additionally, I’m not sure one can actually bottle something into a song.
Oasis – “Don’t Look Back In Anger” (1996)
Post-Beatles, co-Radiohead, pre-Muse Brit rock at its best.
Gin Blossoms – “Til I Hear It From You” (1996)
Don’t hate.
Lisa Loeb – “Stay (I Missed You)” (1994)
One of the sweetest songs ever written. I think a whole generation of kids fell in love with Lisa Loeb the day this song was released.
Green Day – “Basket Case” (1994)
I didn’t get it at first…
Weezer – “Buddy Holly” (1994)
Pure 90s nerd rock. Weezer defined a generation with their Blue Album. Sadly, they sort of fizzled away creatively. Still, it’s amazing how their first two albums can still keep us loving them despite the mediocre fare Cuomo and crew have released since.
The Cranberries – “Zombie” (1994)
I actually just heard the MTV Unplugged version today. Click the song title link and listen to it. It’s even better than the original.
Radiohead – “Creep” (1992)
My anthem for about 70% of my high school experience. I had a great time but it was still high school…
Kris Kross – “Jump” (1992)
Okay, this one is kind of a joke. I remember liking it for a short while but not long enough to learn the lyrics. Honestly, I’m not sure why I even bothered. Maybe it’s because citing “Ninja Rap” just felt too wrong. Also, I was, like, 10 or something…
Michael Jackson – “Thriller” (1983)
I would leave the room when the video played on television. And this was BEFORE he was accused of child molestation.
The Carpenters – “Sing” (1973)
For the record, I don’t like the Carpenters. I sang this song at my preschool graduation in the Barbers Point Naval Base.
Gerry & The Pacemakers – “Ferry Cross the Mersey” (1964)
The first pop song I remember really liking…
I was five.