The intimacy and connection in a romantic relationship.
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Showing 1-150 of 150.
1997
The ongoing pain of heartbreak throughout the year.
View background statusThe confines of a relationship and the desire for freedom.
View background statusCeline Dion grew up in a musical family in Charlemagne, Quebec, and began recording in French before developing an English-language career. Unison marked that transition in 1990. Her repertoire includes film songs...
View background statusAll Cried Out
Allure featuring 112Reported release: 1997 / 1998Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #43A cover of Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam's song about the aftermath of a breakup.
View background statusThe desire to support and be there for someone you care about.
View background statusOffering love and commitment in a relationship
View background statusThe confusion and complexity of life and relationships.
View background statusUnconditional love and acceptance in a relationship.
View background statusA satirical take on Barbie doll culture and materialism.
View background statusThe struggle to maintain a relationship with someone who is emotionally unavailable.
View background statusDealing with personal demons and addictions.
View background statusBeen Around the World
Puff Daddy & The Family featuring The Notorious B.I.G. & MaseReported release: 1997Date needs verification
The song samples David Bowie's "Let's Dance" and talks about worldwide fame and success.
View background statusHeavy D was the Jamaican-born rapper, songwriter and producer Dwight Errington Myers, raised in Mount Vernon, New York. He first recorded with the Boyz for Uptown, working across hip-hop, R&B, reggae and dance. His...
View background statusEmbracing the complexities of womanhood and rejecting stereotypes.
View background statusThe struggles and contradictions of life, sampling an orchestral version of the Rolling Stones' "The Last Time."
View background statusThe struggles and contradictions of life, sampling an orchestral version of the Rolling Stones' "The Last Time."
View background statusThe struggles of teenage pregnancy and poverty.
View background statusSarah McLachlan developed a style combining folk-based songwriting, atmospheric production and elements of alternative rock. Originally from Nova Scotia, she moved to Vancouver and released Touch before expanding her...
View background statusSmooth and irresistible attraction.
View background statusThe bond between a father and his daughter as she grows up.
View background statusC U When U Get There
Coolio featuring 40 ThevzReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #66The struggles of inner-city life and the hope for a better future.
View background statusCan't Nobody Hold Me Down
Puff Daddy featuring MaseReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #5Sampling Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five's "The Message," the song celebrates success and perseverance.
View background statusElton and Bernie Taupin made this separate version as a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales. Taupin explained that he wanted it to speak from the country's perspective. Its recording identity is distinct from the...
Read background and sourcesThe desire to make the world a better place for a loved one.
View background statusA fun, carefree summer party atmosphere.
View background statusCold Rock a Party
MC LyteReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #61Female empowerment in the hip-hop scene.
View background statusA duet from the animated film "Anastasia" about romantic attraction.
View background status112 formed among high-school friends in Atlanta, with Slim, Mike, Q and Daron developing their singing through church performances and talent shows. Management contacts introduced the group to Sean Combs and Bad Boy...
View background statusA dance move popular in clubs at the time.
View background statusThe effort and commitment required in a relationship.
View background statusDon't Cry for Me Argentina
MadonnaReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #87From the musical "Evita," based on the life of Eva Perón.
View background statusDon't Let Go (Love)
En VogueReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #7Written for the film "Set It Off," the song deals with the pain of a failing relationship.
View background statusThe fear of commitment and emotional vulnerability.
View background statusThe desire to settle down and commit to one person.
View background statusThe excesses of rock star lifestyle.
View background statusESPN Presents The Jock Jam
Various ArtistsRelease year not establishedDate review open
Source year-end #72ESPN Presents the Jock Jam combines excerpts from dance and rap recordings associated with the Jock Jams compilation series. Produced as a compact megamix by Rich "DJ Riddler" Pangilinan and Bobby Dedic, it appeared...
Read background and sourcesThe constant thoughts of a loved one.
View background statusEveryday Is a Winding Road
Sheryl CrowReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #60The unpredictable nature of life and the importance of embracing the journey.
View background statusThe experience of falling deeply in love.
View background statusThe desire to escape problems and find peace.
View background statusA cover of Steve Miller Band's song about social progress and personal growth.
View background statusJewel's personal experiences with relationships and heartbreak.
View background statusWritten for the movie "Space Jam," about unconditional love and support.
View background statusThe Cranberries emerged from Limerick, Ireland, after Dolores O'Riordan joined the band that had begun as the Cranberry Saw Us. Her voice joined Noel Hogan's guitar, Mike Hogan's bass and Fergal Lawler's drums. Their...
View background statusEnding a toxic relationship and moving on.
View background statusEncouraging a partner to commit and improve the relationship.
View background statusMichael Bolton is a singer and songwriter known for a soulful vocal style and a repertoire spanning pop, soul standards and screen music. His songwriting collaborations include Steel Bars with Bob Dylan, while Go the...
View background statusWritten for the film "Batman & Robin," about hope in a troubled city.
View background statusHard to Say I'm Sorry
Az Yet featuring Peter CeteraReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #19A cover of Chicago's 1982 hit about apologizing and reconciliation.
View background statusThe excitement and sweetness of a new relationship.
View background statusWritten for the movie "Con Air," the song expresses deep love and dependency.
View background statusThe AIDS crisis and its impact on the gay community.
View background statusBiggie's lifestyle and success in the hip-hop world.
View background statusWritten for the movie "Space Jam," the song is about self-belief and achieving one's dreams.
View background statusI Believe in You and Me
Whitney HoustonReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #33A cover of The Four Tops' song about deep, committed love.
View background statusDeep love and commitment in a relationship.
View background statusI Belong to You (Every Time I See Your Face)
RomeRelease year not establishedDate review open
Source year-end #24Deep love and commitment in a relationship.
View background statusExpressing deep care and concern for someone.
View background statusThe song explores the complexities and commitments of marriage.
View background statusThe reluctance to end a relationship despite problems.
View background statusI Finally Found Someone
Barbra Streisand and Bryan AdamsReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #53Written for the film "The Mirror Has Two Faces," about finding true love.
View background statusI Like It brought together the Blackout All-Stars for the 1994 film soundtrack I Like It Like That. The ensemble included Ray Barretto, Tito Nieves, Tito Puente, Sheila E. and other Latin and jazz musicians. Produced...
Read background and sourcesToni Braxton developed her R&B recording voice with producers L.A. Reid and Babyface. Her self-titled debut appeared in 1993, with Another Sad Love Song and Breathe Again introducing her low vocal tone and ballad...
View background statusI Love You Always Forever
Donna LewisReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #64Donna Lewis drew the song from H. E. Bates' novel Love for Lydia. It was initially called "Lydia" before she chose the familiar title. This literary origin replaces the different novel named in the supplied list....
Read background and sourcesA cover of Bob Marley's classic, adapted to reflect urban struggles.
View background statusThe desire to be with someone you love.
View background statusThe intense desire and passion in a new relationship.
View background statusLoyalty and support in a romantic relationship.
View background statusI'll Be Missing You
Puff Daddy and Faith Evans featuring 112Reported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #3A tribute to The Notorious B.I.G., who was killed in March 1997.
View background statusI'm Still in Love with You
New EditionRelease year not establishedDate review open
Source year-end #44New Edition developed in Boston's Roxbury neighborhood and recorded Candy Girl with producer Maurice Starr for Streetwise in 1983. A move to MCA brought the self-titled album and singles Cool It Now and Mr. Telephone...
View background statusIf It Makes You Happy
Sheryl CrowReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #55Finding contentment and questioning societal expectations.
View background statusThe frustration of others not understanding or approving of a relationship.
View background statusInfidelity and its impact on a relationship.
View background statusThe feeling of being unnoticed by someone you have feelings for.
View background statusIt's All Coming Back to Me Now
Celine DionReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #50The song was written by Jim Steinman and inspired by Wuthering Heights.
View background statusThe transformative power of love, inspired by their real-life relationship.
View background statusThe idea of cosmic justice and consequences for one's actions.
View background statusAz Yet developed in Philadelphia as an R&B vocal group, with Kenny 'Babyface' Edmonds helping bring its recordings to a wider audience. Ballad singing and layered vocal harmony shaped its early repertoire. Last Night...
View background statusToni Braxton developed her R&B recording voice with producers L.A. Reid and Babyface. Her self-titled debut appeared in 1993, with Another Sad Love Song and Breathe Again introducing her low vocal tone and ballad...
View background statusRay J developed a music career alongside television work, performing as an R&B singer and songwriter. His debut album Everything You Want appeared in 1997, followed by recordings that expanded the sound beyond his...
View background statusThe desire to be someone's chosen partner.
View background statusLet Me Clear My Throat
DJ KoolReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #96A party anthem sampling various hip-hop classics.
View background statusLook into My Eyes
Bone Thugs-n-HarmonyRelease year not establishedDate review open
Source year-end #47Bone Thugs-N-Harmony developed in Cleveland and connected with Eazy-E's Ruthless Records as their music reached a wider audience. The group's style combines quick rhythmic rapping with melody and vocal harmony....
View background statusThe power of love to overcome societal issues.
View background statusThe desperation and vulnerability in a one-sided relationship.
View background statusLiving a luxurious lifestyle.
View background statusMacarena (Bayside Boys Mix)
Los del RioReported release: 1995 / 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #82The underlying song originated after a dancer's performance impressed Los del Rio in Venezuela. Miami-based Bayside Boys later added an electronic dance setting and English-language material in response to local...
Read background and sourcesThe theme song for the film "Men in Black," about secret agents protecting Earth from aliens.
View background statusThe nightlife and atmosphere of Chelsea, London.
View background statusThe hook began as a background idea for another song. Hanson first recorded a slower version before the Dust Brothers helped turn it into the familiar upbeat single. Zac Hanson has explained that the song concerns...
Read background and sourcesMo Money Mo Problems
The Notorious B.I.G. featuring Puff Daddy and MaseReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #20The challenges that come with fame and fortune.
View background statusMouth
Merril BainbridgeReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #42The power of words in a relationship.
View background statusB-Rock and the Bizz was a Southern rap act whose credited members included Baron B-Rock Agee and Leevirt Agee. Its catalog includes My Baby Daddy and the album Porkin' Beans & Wienes. Other listed recordings include...
View background statusMy Love Is the Shhh!
Somethin' for the People featuring Trina & TamaraReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #51The power and allure of physical intimacy.
View background statusNaked Eye
Luscious JacksonReported release: 1996 / 1997Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #81Seeing through deception and false appearances.
View background statusNever Make a Promise
Dru HillReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #56The importance of keeping promises in a relationship.
View background statusNo Diggity
Blackstreet featuring Dr. DreReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #23Appreciation for a woman's confidence and style.
View background statusNo Time
Lil' Kim featuring Puff DaddyReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #80Asserting independence and success in relationships and career.
View background statusNobody
Keith Sweat featuring Athena CageRelease: 1996Source checked | Recent carryover
Source year-end #16The unique and irreplaceable nature of a loved one.
View background statusNot Tonight
Lil' Kim featuring Da Brat, Left Eye, Missy Elliott and Angie MartinezReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #46Female empowerment and sexual independence.
View background statusA cover of Martha and the Vandellas' song, used in the film "Dead Man Walking."
View background statusErykah Badu is a singer and writer from Dallas whose early musical experience included rapping and working with her cousin in Erykah Free. Her 1997 debut Baduizm, including 'On & On,' established her recording...
View background statusReal McCoy developed as a Berlin-based recording project involving Olaf 'O-Jay' Jeglitza and Frank 'Quickmix' Hassas. Early records used the name M.C. Sar & the Real McCoy, including a rap adaptation of Pump Up the...
View background statusThe excitement and anticipation of a new romance.
View background statusRadiohead's group recordings bring together Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Colin Greenwood, Ed O'Brien and Philip Selway. Their music has moved across rock boundaries through a wide range of influences and studio...
View background statusThe song was inspired by Ginuwine's experiences in the club scene.
View background statusQuit Playing Games (With My Heart)
Backstreet BoysReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #11The pain and frustration of being in a manipulative relationship.
View background statusMorrison's comeback after personal setbacks and legal troubles.
View background statusSavoring a final night together
View background statusThe importance of reliability and trust in relationships.
View background statusThe dark side of drug use, particularly crystal meth, masked by an upbeat melody.
View background statusKeeping a romantic relationship private.
View background statusCelebrating and acknowledging friends and supporters.
View background statusSmile
Scarface featuring 2Pac and Johnny P.Reported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #75Finding strength and reasons to smile despite life's hardships.
View background statusSWV entered the recording scene as an R&B vocal trio with the RCA album It's About Time. Early repertoire included I'm So Into You, Weak and Right Here, whose Teddy Riley remix expanded the group's sound. New...
View background statusThis John-Taupin song appears on The Big Picture, a studio album dedicated to Elton's late friend Gianni Versace. Chris Thomas produced the album, with orchestral arrangements credited to Guy Babylon and Anne Dudley....
Read background and sourcesThe dangers of blind faith and not questioning authority.
View background statusThe nostalgic feeling of summer days.
View background statusA fictional story about a woman seeking revenge through arson.
View background statusThe joy and energy of swing dancing and music.
View background statusThe sweetness of love and attraction.
View background statusThe ups and downs of relationships and personal growth.
View background statusGuilt and regret over past actions and their consequences.
View background statusThe fear of facing real hardship and tragedy.
View background statusThe ballad explores the vulnerability and pain of heartbreak.
View background statusPhysical attraction and arousal on the dance floor.
View background statusThe song was written as a mature love song, inspired by the band's desire to create something more profound than typical pop love songs.
View background statusResilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
View background statusThe complicated nature of love and attraction.
View background statusUn-Break My Heart
Toni BraxtonReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #4Written by Diane Warren about the pain of heartbreak and longing for reconciliation.
View background statusShowcasing Timbaland's innovative production style.
View background statusA critique of 1960s idealism and its impact on later generations.
View background statusGirl power and the importance of friendship over romantic relationships.
View background statusThe overwhelming nature of love and emotion.
View background statusQuestioning the status and future of a relationship.
View background statusPlanning a romantic evening.
View background statusJourney's rock sound developed around guitarist Neal Schon, whose earlier experience included Santana. Keyboard player and songwriter Jonathan Cain became an important collaborator, contributing piano and synthesizer...
View background statusThe Cranberries emerged from Limerick, Ireland, after Dolores O'Riordan joined the band that had begun as the Cranberry Saw Us. Her voice joined Noel Hogan's guitar, Mike Hogan's bass and Fergal Lawler's drums. Their...
View background statusWhere Do You Go
No MercyReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #52The song was inspired by the pain of separation in relationships.
View background statusWhere Have All the Cowboys Gone?
Paula ColeReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #38A critique of traditional gender roles and unfulfilled promises in relationships.
View background statusThe song was inspired by the story of Sara Thornton, who killed her abusive husband.
View background statusThe song was inspired by the dark realities of prostitution and human trafficking.
View background statusThe temptation to leave a current relationship for someone new.
View background statusMadonna is a singer, songwriter and producer whose first single, Everybody, appeared in 1982. Her early albums connect dance rhythms with concise pop songs; later records range from the ballads of Bedtime Stories to...
View background statusYou Should Be Mine (Don't Waste Your Time)
Brian McKnight featuring MaseReported release: 1997Date needs verification
Source year-end #86Trying to convince someone they belong together.
View background statusJewel established her recording career with the 1995 album Pieces of You, combining folk-oriented songwriting with an emphasis on storytelling. Her work also extends to poetry, children's books and music for...
View background statusYou're Makin' Me High
Toni BraxtonReported release: 1996Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #98The intensity of physical attraction and desire.
View background statusA complex narrative about unrequited love and gender roles.
View background statusThe 1943 Zoot Suit Riots in Los Angeles.
View background statusBrowse by year
1960-2025. Each year contains 150 selections.