The 1990s were a pivotal time for music, with the rise of alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. Many iconic artists made their mark during this era, but as the decade came to a close, some of these artists seemed to fade into obscurity. However, in recent years, many of these same artists have made surprising comebacks to the charts, leaving fans and critics alike wondering what took them so long.
Björk: The Icelandic Songstress’s Epic Return
One of the most significant comebacks of the decade belongs to Björk, the Icelandic songstress known for her eclectic style and innovative sound. After releasing her critically acclaimed album “Homogenic” in 1997, Björk seemed to slow down her output, only releasing a few singles and collaborating with other artists. But in 2015, she returned with her ambitious album “Vulnicura,” which debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200 chart.
The album’s lead single, “Stonemilker,” was a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcased Björk’s signature vocal range and emotional depth. The song’s accompanying music video, directed by Andrew Thomas Huang, was a stunning visualization of the song’s themes of love, loss, and transformation.
Weezer: The Geeks’ Revenge
Weezer, the California-based power pop band, were one of the most prominent bands of the 1990s, with their debut album “Weezer” (also known as the “Blue Album”) becoming a massive success. However, after the release of their third album “Green Album” in 2001, the band seemed to lose steam, with their subsequent releases receiving mixed reviews.
But in 2014, Weezer released “Everything Will Be Alright in the End,” an album that marked a triumphant return to form. The album’s lead single, “Back to the Beach,” was a catchy, upbeat track that showcased the band’s signature geek chic sensibilities.
LFO: The 90’s Pop Revival
LFO (Lyte Funky Ones) were a 90’s pop duo known for their catchy, dance-oriented hits like “Summer Girls” and “Girl on TV.” After releasing a few albums in the early 2000s, the duo seemed to disappear from the music scene. However, in 2012, LFO surprised fans by releasing a new single, “No Apologies,” which debuted on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song’s music video, which featured the duo performing on a beach, was a nostalgic throwback to their 90’s heyday. The song’s lyrics, which dealt with the challenges of growing up, resonated with fans of all ages.
Savage Garden: The Aussie Heartthrobs Return
Savage Garden, the Australian pop duo, were known for their romantic ballads like “I Knew I Loved You” and “Truly Madly Deeply.” After releasing a few albums in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the duo disbanded, with lead vocalist Darren Hayes pursuing a successful solo career.
However, in 2012, Savage Garden reunited and released a new single, “All Around Me,” which debuted on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. The song’s music video, which featured the duo performing on a rooftop, was a nostalgic throwback to their 90’s heyday.
Salt-N-Pepa: The Queens of Hip-Hop’s Comeback
Salt-N-Pepa, the pioneering hip-hop duo, were known for their infectious beats and empowering lyrics like “Push It” and “Shoop.” After releasing a few albums in the 1990s and early 2000s, the duo seemed to slow down their output, with lead vocalist Pepa pursuing a successful career as a TV personality and radio host.
However, in 2010, Salt-N-Pepa released a new single, “Gitty Up,” which debuted on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s music video, which featured the duo performing on a basketball court, was a fun and energetic throwback to their 90’s heyday.
Akon: The Rapper’s Resurgence
Akon, the Senegalese-American rapper, was one of the most successful rappers of the 2000s, with his debut album “Trouble” debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart. However, after releasing a few albums in the late 2000s and early 2010s, Akon seemed to lose steam, with his subsequent releases receiving mixed reviews.
But in 2014, Akon released “Stuck on Stupid,” a single that showcased his signature blend of pop and hip-hop. The song’s music video, which featured Akon performing on a beach, was a nostalgic throwback to his 2000s heyday.
Conclusion
The 90’s were a pivotal time for music, with many iconic artists making their mark during this era. However, as the decade came to a close, some of these artists seemed to fade into obscurity. But in recent years, many of these same artists have made surprising comebacks to the charts, leaving fans and critics alike wondering what took them so long.
These comebacks are a testament to the enduring power of 90’s music, with fans of all ages still clinging to the nostalgia of the decade. Whether it’s Björk’s epic return, Weezer’s geek chic revival, or LFO’s pop resurgence, these comebacks are a reminder that great music knows no bounds – and that the 90’s will always be an iconic era for music lovers.
FAQs
Q: What was the most successful comeback of the decade?
A: According to Billboard, the most successful comeback of the decade belongs to Weezer, whose album “Everything Will Be Alright in the End” debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200 chart.
Q: Which artist made the most surprising comeback of the decade?
A: Many fans would argue that it was Björk, who seemed to disappear from the music scene for years before releasing her critically acclaimed album “Vulnicura” in 2015.
Q: Which artist’s comeback was most influenced by nostalgia?
A: LFO’s comeback was heavily influenced by nostalgia, with their single “No Apologies” being a throwback to their 90’s heyday.
Q: Which artist’s comeback was most successful on the charts?
A: According to Billboard, Akon’s comeback single “Stuck on Stupid” was most successful on the charts, debuting at number one on the US Billboard Rap Songs chart.
