We have previously shared our selections for the “Big 4” bands of ’90s metal, and now it is time to identify the Big 4 bands of ’90s rock.
The 1990s experienced several musical phases. Hair metal began to decline as audiences sought something less manufactured and more relatable. This shift coincided with the emergence of grunge — the last few months of ’91 and the early months of ’92 marked a pivotal moment when the Seattle scene gained worldwide recognition.
Alternative rock bands also made significant strides, headlining festivals and large concert venues by the mid-decade. Additionally, punk experienced a resurgence during this period. Grunge’s dominance started to diminish in the latter half of the decade as it became increasingly oversaturated, much like hair metal had just a few years earlier.
As grunge slowed, its predecessor, post-grunge, began to rise, although these bands became more prominent in the early 2000s.
READ MORE: 10 Best God-Tier Rock Songs of the 1990s
In selecting our Big 4 ’90s rock bands, we considered their musical and cultural impact, the longevity of their influence, and their prominence during the decade. We also aimed to represent different subgenres of ’90s rock to illustrate the diversity of music from that era.
Continue reading to discover our picks for the Big 4 of ’90s rock and why they deserve this recognition.
The ‘Big 4’ Bands of ’90s Rock
The four bands that best encapsulate all of ’90s rock — Seattle grunge, politically-charged rap-rock, punk, and alternative.
Gallery Credit: Lauryn Schaffner
Top 90 Hard Rock + Metal Albums of the 1990s
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